Santo Lusio de Kombuskuro, often referred to as the "forgotten Provençal corner," is a small, picturesque village in Italy that has preserved its unique Provençal culture and language.
Located in the northwestern region of Italy, near the French border in Piedmont's Cuneo province, this secluded village seems frozen in time. Its isolation, both geographically and culturally, means that news—whether good or bad—takes longer to reach its quaint streets.
Traveling to Santo Lusio de Kombuskuro is an adventure in itself. Visitors typically fly to Turin, then continue their journey by train, followed by a bus ride to reach this remote alpine haven.
What makes this village truly unique is its official language: Provençal. This ancient medieval neo-Latin dialect of the Occitan language was once widely spoken across the French region of Occitania.
The village is home to around 30 residents, primarily shepherd families who rely on livestock farming and agriculture. Winters here are harsh, often leaving the community without electricity for weeks at a time.
Despite these challenges, Santo Lusio de Kombuskuro offers visitors a serene escape. Its tranquil mountain meadows and vibrant lavender fields provide an idyllic retreat for those seeking to disconnect from modern technology. The breathtaking views from the alpine peaks even stretch as far as the French Riviera.
Forget about bars, supermarkets, and restaurants. Social gatherings are limited to occasional folkloric events or weekend mushroom-picking expeditions by visitors.
The locals embrace a slower, simpler lifestyle in harmony with nature. Without television, and with mobile phones used only in emergencies, their daily lives revolve around healthy living and a deep connection to their surroundings.
As reported by TU Magazine, this village honors life in its purest form and welcomes visitors with open arms, ready to share the timeless values they hold dear.