Italy's countryside is peppered with villages rich in architectural marvels, gastronomic delights and arcane cultural traditions. Each year, these little-known treasures compete for national recognition through ‘Borgo dei Borghi’ (Village of Villages), a beloved television contest that has become a cultural phenomenon.

Organised by RAI, Italy's national public broadcasting company, the annual competition is broadcast in weekly episodes that turn the spotlight on each of the 20 selected villages. The programme has become a form of travel inspiration as it recounts legends, curiosities and rituals that make each village one-of-a-kind.