The Italian State Property Agency has recently announced the opening of a bidding process for the concession of 18 state-owned historic buildings, including towers, lighthouses, and historic villas, with the aim of revitalizing them through sustainable tourism, hospitality, and culture. This initiative is part of the “Network Projects,” a program designed to enhance public real estate assets through collaboration with private entities and third-sector organizations.

The 18 buildings, located in various Italian regions (Calabria, Lombardy, Sicily, Veneto, Lazio, Liguria, Piedmont, Friuli Venezia Giulia), include historic structures such as the Torre Vecchia in Isola Capo Rizzuto, Calabria, the Capo Grosso Lighthouse on the island of Levanzo in Sicily, and the former Guardia di Finanza barracks in Avola, Sicily.

According to a recent analysis published in Il Sole 24 Ore, many similar initiatives launched in recent years have not achieved the desired results due to economic conditions and bureaucratic difficulties that have made investments less attractive. Concession proposals, which are facilitated for third-sector operators, must be submitted by December 3, 2024. However, while the initiative seems enticing, the concessions often require significant investments for restoration and maintenance of the buildings, as well as ongoing operational costs. Additionally, conditions imposed by the State Property Agency can limit the potential uses and profitability, deterring potential investors.

All information regarding the bidding process, including detailed property descriptions and participation guides, is available on the State Property Agency’s website.