Why is Italy giving away its castles?

Updated

Italy is giving away castles for free in an unusual bid to save its historic landmarks and help tourism.

Some 103 buildings across the country, many of which are historic villas and castles, are being made available to those who can help develop the crumbling buildings.

See also: How many of these castles can you name?

See also: Top ten castle stays in the UK

But there's a catch: Recipients of the properties must agree to transform the buildings into something that drives tourism.

'Local Italy' reports that the country is hoping this will help promote the development of tourism, relieving the overcrowding in the country's most popular areas, like Venice and the Amalfi Coast.

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