Biagio a Pioneer for Local Promotion and Vera Italia Heritage Host
Biagio a Pioneer for Local Promotion and Vera Italia Heritage Host
By Chiara Barbera | Vera Italia
Ciao Amici! Welcome to another recount of how the Vera Italia “Culture Creators” came to be. We define Culture Creators as the people who humbly keep alive the customs that represent the true and simple beauty of Italian culture. The people who bring colour to the towns and carry forward the traditions that shape the Italian identity.
These series of recounts fill me with immense joy, sharing with you the stories of these incredible individuals and how we connected.
In the spirit of how this travel blog series began, my prayer for you is that these stories bring you a little glimmer of hope, an oomph of inspiration and the courage to take-on that little dream you’ve been carrying around in your pocket.
Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the story of Biagio! This is a good one so get ready!
Biagio, unlike our other friends we’ve met along the journey so far, was one of the very first people to reach out to me. After hearing about the project, he immediately contacted me and I quickly learned why.
I would define Biagio as the pioneer-guru for actioning initiatives that strengthen cohesion and community in an environment that isn’t always eager to support. That doesn’t stop him though. One of the things I admire most about Biagio is that you can truly see that his vision and passion captures and inspires so many to jump on board and champion the cause to support growth along the coastline.
Our collaboration began with the story of how this young entrepreneur decided to not let the sacrifices of his parents and grandparents go to waste. He decided to believe in a vision that would enable him to invest in the town where he grew-up and not have to abandon his family’s legacy.
And so, 87029 House was born! Taking place in an industrial warehouse that was at risk of being left to ruin, Biagio has created an accommodation solution where contemporary design meets history and homely warmth. Every detail, from his grandparents’ furniture to his mother’s breakfast, expresses a true connection to his roots. Biagio loves Scalea, he loves promoting it and if given the chance, he would sing this from the mountain tops…he pretty much already does. It’s truly beautiful to see.
Thanks to Biagio and our other accommodation hosts, you’ll remember this new category of “Culture Creator” was born. A title worthy of acclaiming the individuals who open the doors to homes with heart and stays that tell a story. Heritage Hosts. Connecting you directly with the stories of the people waiting to welcome you into their family homes, historic buildings, and architectural treasures that span generations.
In continuing our mission to preserve traditions, this is an important part in supporting and encouraging cultural preservation, rural revitalisation, and the legacy of local families.
One day, my dream (my next dream) is to save all the beautiful run-down buildings that are oozing with potential. In the meantime, it’s so wonderful to encourage and support those who are already doing this…and what beautiful stories they have to share!
Back to Biagio! We coordinated everything while I was in Australia, a huge testament to how forward-thinking this beautiful individual is, because typically we do things in person in Italia. But, Biagio, like me, saw the vision. In fact, in his video, one of the key points he highlights is the importance of building a network. You can check it out here.
When we finally met in-person, it was like two visionaries illuminating with a million ideas and opportunities to collaborate on. I said to Biagio that we needed to see each other at least once a week, just to keep on top of it all.
In addition to 87029 House, I would say one of the biggest projects Biagio has worked on is Nuscialo. An event that celebrates the joy and enjoyment of Calabria and focuses on highlighting a specific town and the local activities within the town, inviting social media experts from all over Calabria and Italy to visit, experience and share. I had the privilege of participating in 2025 and I must say, Biagio and Espedito have a talent for creating a beautiful united atmosphere amongst a group of people who happen to come together, curious to explore and discover the bellezza of the small towns they promote. A truly exciting initiative.
You can learn more about the event here:
https://youtu.be/Arnt6apNipI?si=P_Ebf8qa99JwY1LX
Or check-out the event from 2025 and yours truly sharing a bit about my experience!
https://www.radiodigiesse.net/sabato-20-settembre-a-san-nicola-arcella-nu-scialo-di-gastrotour/
So amici, once again, it’s been a privilege to be in your company. It’s an honour to share the stories of Biagio, our Culture Creators and Heritage Hosts and I look forward to our next encounter. Until then, keep cultivating that little dream of yours!
