Il successo del volo dell'angelo | Nicola Valluzzi | TEDxLUMSA

The Revitalization of Castelmezzano

• The mayor of Castelmezzano described the town's decline, including the closure of essential services and a shrinking population.
• Determined to revitalize the town, the mayor and the community showcased its unique beauty and history.
• Inspired by a chance encounter, they created the zip line, Volo dell'Angelo, connecting Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa.
• The zip line's success attracted tourists and generated economic opportunities for the region.
• Castelmezzano became part of "I Borghi più Belli d'Italia," enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.

The Success of the Flight of the Angel

• The Flight of the Angel zip line was built in 2007 in Basilicata, Italy, despite environmental opposition.
• Over 221,000 people have experienced the zip line, generating €7.6 million in revenue.
• The attraction's website has had 5 million unique visitors and 19 million page views.
• 70% of tickets are purchased online, making it one of Italy's most profitable e-commerce platforms.
• The zip line's success has created 400 new jobs in the hospitality sector and revitalized the local economy.
• Castelmezzano has been recognized as a successful model of community tourism by the World Tourism Organization and the FAO.
• The town has become a popular filming location, further boosting tourism.

Additional Developments and Future Plans

• Other attractions have been developed in the area, including via ferratas, hiking trails, and a multimedia show.
• A new monorail toboggan ride is set to open in the summer of 2023.
• Castelmezzano has become a well-known international tourist destination.

The Role of the Mayor and Civic Engagement

• The mayor's role involves serving as a custodian of the community's hopes, expectations, and needs.
• The goal is to create a stable and sustainable development trajectory despite present challenges.
• Civic engagement and public service are seen as acts of care towards the people and the town.
• The aim is to preserve and regenerate history, identity, culture, and traditions.
• The ultimate objective is to provide future generations with hope for the future.