Aielli, a town in the Marsica region, in the province of L'Aquila, is emerging as a prominent cultural hub thanks to its innovative spirit and the growing fame of "Borgo Universo." This nickname is the result of initiatives undertaken since 2017, aimed at combating depopulation and promoting tourism in the area.

A recent initiative that highlights the small town’s ambitions is a project connecting this Abruzzese gem with Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This project, supported by an Italian-Canadian financial consultant, Ernesto Salvi, promises to further enrich Aielli's artistic landscape.

The town of Aielli is known for its murals, which decorate the town center in 46 different locations. These works are not only a means to beautify streets and squares but also serve as vehicles for stories and meanings tied to emigration and local history. The combination of art and storytelling has allowed the village to attract visitors and artists, revitalizing interest in a region that has experienced demographic decline over the years. The mural renovation project has turned Aielli into an open-air museum, capable of visually and engagingly telling its own story and that of its people.

Ernesto Salvi, originally from Avezzano and now residing in Vancouver, is the promoter of the initiative that led to the creation of a competition in collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia. After learning about Aielli’s artistic activities, he realized the importance of linking Italian tradition with American culture. Salvi stated that the initiative aims to illustrate the theme of emigration, a subject of great significance for both cultures. The choice of an American artist to work closely with the local community symbolizes an effort to unite the experiences and stories of these two worlds.

The jury, composed of Aielli’s mayor Enzo Di Natale, representatives from the La Maesa cooperative, and a representative from Mural Arts Philadelphia, selected Micaela Levesque, a mural artist from Connecticut. Levesque will arrive in Aielli during the summer to create a work focusing on the bond between Italy and America. This project is not only an opportunity for the artist to express her creativity but also an important occasion for cultural exchange. Her presence in Aielli will further enrich the local artistic scene, helping to spread messages of inclusion and unity.

Ernesto Salvi’s commitment goes beyond supporting the creation of murals; his dedication to Aielli extends to various projects aimed at boosting the town’s tourist appeal. He has already donated equipment for tour guides and is contributing to the renovation of the "Torre delle Stelle" with the introduction of a new planetarium. Salvi’s donations aim to make Aielli a cultural destination of importance, capable of attracting not only tourists but also art and literature enthusiasts.