Pettorano sul Gizio, a medieval town in Italy's Abruzzo region, has seen a sharp population decline from 5,000 in 1920 to just 390 today. Despite its rustic charm and status as one of Italy's most beautiful towns, many structures are abandoned and dilapidated. However, the town is now recognized for fostering a unique connection with the endangered Marsican brown bears, drawing in young conservationists eager to protect these creatures. Efforts to safely coexist with the bears have rekindled interest in the area, showing a path to revitalization against a backdrop of population decline.
Pettorano sul Gizio, once home to 5,000 residents, has dwindled to 390, reflecting a broader trend of abandonment in Italy's Abruzzo region. Yet, its unique bear-led revitalization attracts new residents.
A lifesize model of a bear stands in the town square, while real bears like Barbara roam its streets, embodying the town’s passion for wildlife and emphasizing conservation efforts.
Collection
[
|
...
]