The village of Badolato was established in 1080 and had a thriving economy through the Middle Ages, at one point reaching a population of 12,000. It was built on a granite mountaintop and today the protective walls that encircle the village can be still be seen, as can one of the watchtowers that warned citizens of impending danger. In the early part of the twentieth century and again after WWII, a mass emigration occurred, with many of the inhabitants abandoning their homes in order to move to other countries for work. Today there is only a population of 400, but because of an active, ongoing revitalization project, this is changing. Visitors can stroll down the narrow streets and identify the houses that have been restored. Two piazzas have been completely renovated with granite cobblestones.
The Badolatesi are warm, friendly people who welcome visitors to their village. Visitors will be greeted with friendly smiles and frequently engaged in conversation by the locals. Occasionally, one will even see the ladies in the village carrying their groceries in a basket on their heads, as is the custom of some.
Casa del Ciliegio
