Sextantio
“I got on my bike and wandered. I saw the village of Santo Stefano from afar and was amazed
-D Kihlgren
Eight years ago, on our first trip into the Gran Sasso Mountains near L’Aquila, we stayed at a unique ‘albergo diffuso’. The medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, with a dwindling population of around 100 inhabitants was reborn thanks to the vision of Daniele Kihlgren. Some of the village houses were sensitively renovated, keeping old stonework and scorched fireplaces in tact. The aim wasn’t to prettify but to restore, simply. The result was this unique hotel, occupying several houses throughout the village. Reception was in one house. The restaurant was in another. A man with an Ape van met you and whisked away your luggage. You walked through the village to your stone house. The first photo was the main entrance to our accommodation.
We just heard that Daniele Kihlgren died. He was only 60, yet another reminder to live life now and make the most of every day. Many people talk of legacy. This is a fine example. The project not only breathed life into a largely deserted village but it gave employment to local people. It’s a great example of sustainable tourism and it inspired a second, similar hotel in the stunning, ancient sassi of Matera. And it’s an example of how something so beautiful can be created using local materials, skilled local workers and simple design, right down to the smallest details like the towels, wool mattresses or handmade blankets made with wooden looms.
I feel thankful that we’ve had the opportunity to go to both hotels in recent years. Kihlgren’s vision was very special. He had a huge impact on the local community and the project afforded travellers the chance to stay in a truly unique setting.
Maggie M/ Mother City Time
