Militello: Italy's Unexpected Winner!
So, you wouldn't believe this. Italy just crowned its most beautiful village for 2025, and honestly, who saw *Militello in Val di Catania* coming? This little Baroque gem in Sicily totally stole the show in Rai Cultura's "Il Borgo dei Borghi 2025" competition. I mean, the competition was fierce – twenty stunning villages, one from each region, all vying for the title. It was nail-biting stuff!
A Stunning Upset
The final aired on April 20th, 2025, on Rai3, hosted by Camila Raznovich. The show was amazing – showcasing breathtaking landscapes and incredible architecture. Militello's win was a huge surprise to many. Agliè in Piedmont came in second, and Vignanello in Lazio snagged third. Shows how diverse and beautiful Italy really is, right?
Militello: More Than Just Pretty Buildings
Nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, Militello is seriously gorgeous. It's got this incredible Baroque style, mostly rebuilt after that huge earthquake in 1693. Think charming streets, stunning churches – like the Mother Church of San Nicolò and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Stella – and impressive palaces and fountains. The Barresi-Branciforte Castle is another highlight – you could spend hours just wandering around and taking it all in. But it wasn't just the beauty; it was the whole package: the traditions, the warm, welcoming people, and the incredible food that really sealed the deal.
The Judges Weigh In
A panel of experts – Alberta Campitelli (garden historian), Barbara Gallavotti (biologist), and Jacopo Veneziani (art historian) – had the tough job of choosing the winner. Their commentary throughout the show was fascinating, providing real insight into what makes each village special. They talked about Agliè's majestic castle and Vignanello's stunning Italian garden, among other things. It was clear that every village had something unique to offer.
A Win for Militello, A Win for Sicily
Winning "Il Borgo dei Borghi" isn't just about bragging rights; it's a huge boost for tourism and the local economy. This win will undoubtedly put Militello on the map, attracting visitors from all over the world. It's a testament to the village's beauty, of course, but also to the community's hard work in preserving its heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. It's inspiring, really. So, are you planning a trip to Militello in Val di Catania – Italy's most beautiful village of 2025? You should be!
