Viganella: The ‘sunless village’ of Italy gets sunlight only thanks to a giant mirror

Tucked away in the heart of the Italian Alps lies Viganella, a small village with an extraordinary story. For 83 days each winter, from November to February, the village’s narrow valley traps it in complete shadow, leaving residents to endure long, sunless months. But a remarkable feat of engineering has turned this tale of darkness into one of hope and ingenuity.

In 2006, engineers installed a giant 8×5 metre mirror on the mountainside above Viganella. Controlled by computers, the mirror follows the sun’s trajectory, reflecting its light directly into the village square. The result? Streets and homes that were once shrouded in gloom now bask in sunlight, even during the deepest winter days. For the villagers, what was once a dreary season has become a time of warmth and brightness — a daily reminder of human creativity at work.

Viganella is no longer just a sleepy Alpine village. Today, it draws travelers intrigued by its story of innovation, photographers eager to capture the unusual spectacle, and explorers seeking offbeat destinations. Snow-capped peaks surrounding a sunlit square make for a postcard-perfect setting, while the mirror itself stands as a symbol of how technology can harmoniously blend with nature.

Visiting Viganella offers more than a quirky experience; it’s a chance to witness a community’s resilience and ingenuity firsthand. For those planning a winter escape in Europe, this “sunless” village that now sees the light is a must-visit stop, offering both breathtaking scenery and a story that is as inspiring as it is unique.