Borghi Autentici d’Italia is an Association that unites small and medium-sized communities, local authorities and bodies across Italy with a common aim: to promote the authentic culture and resources and to enhance local development. Italy's Authentic Villages are not typical postcard places, but hospitable communities capable of retaining permanent residents and welcoming temporary ones. Authentic Villages are committed, despite the difficulties, to a continuous improvement of the urban background and services to citizens, and to improve the social, environmental and cultural context to lead to a gradual and steady increase in the quality of life of the inhabitants. Borghi Autentici d'Italia considers the local community as a decisive element of its development plan.