Patrica, a remote medieval village in Italy with a population of barely 3,000 residents, has been facing challenges in selling its abandoned properties as part of the popular one-euro-home scheme. While other Italian towns have successfully attracted buyers to their deserted dwellings, Patrica has struggled to find interested parties.

The initiative to breathe new life into the dying village was led by the town's mayor, Lucio Fiordaliso, who aimed to replicate the success of other towns by offering abandoned homes for just one euro. However, the process has proven difficult due to the lack of consent from the original owners or their heirs.

Despite sending out a public call to involve the owners in the one-euro-homes project, the response from Patrica's owners has been limited. While 10 owners initially showed interest, they ultimately withdrew at the last minute, possibly due to disagreements with relatives who shared ownership of the property. Complicated inheritance laws and the difficulty in locating descendants who may have moved overseas also contributed to the struggle.

Furthermore, the condition of the abandoned homes in Patrica has deterred potential buyers. Many of the houses have been severely neglected, with collapsed roofs and crumbling walls. Some properties have even become dumping grounds for old belongings.

Gianni Valleco, a local resident, attempted to sell his parents' abandoned home but discovered that it was in a state of disrepair beyond salvage. The realization that significant investments would be required for rebuilding rendered the property unattractive to potential buyers.

Apart from the challenges faced by owners and the deteriorated condition of the homes, there is also the fear of back taxes and unpaid utility bills that may discourage original owners living elsewhere from participating in the scheme.

Patrica's one-euro-home project serves as a reminder that not all abandoned houses in Italy can be easily sold. The complexities of ownership disputes and the costly renovations required for neglected properties present significant obstacles for towns seeking to revitalize their communities.

As the mayor and local authorities continue their efforts to find a solution, the fate of Patrica's abandoned homes remains uncertain.