Nestled between the rolling hills of Italy and the picturesque canals of France, two enchanting towns have captured the imagination of travelers and artists alike. Civita di Bagnoregio, often referred to as the "Dying Town," and Colmar, a fairytale-like village in the heart of Alsace, share an unexpected connection: both served as profound inspirations for the legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. While these towns exist continents apart, their ethereal beauty and timeless charm have left an indelible mark on some of Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films. Exploring their real-life landscapes offers a fascinating glimpse into how Miyazaki’s visionary worlds were brought to life.

Civita di Bagnoregio, perched precariously atop a crumbling tufa ridge in Italy’s Lazio region, feels like a place frozen in time. Accessible only by a narrow footbridge, the town’s isolation has preserved its medieval character, with stone houses, winding alleys, and vibrant flowers spilling from every balcony. Miyazaki is said to have drawn inspiration from Civita’s dreamlike quality when creating the floating city of Laputa in Castle in the Sky. The town’s precarious position, seemingly suspended between earth and sky, mirrors the film’s aerial kingdoms. Walking through Civita, one can almost hear the distant hum of airships and feel the weightless wonder that defines Miyazaki’s work.

In contrast, Colmar, France, embodies the warmth and whimsy of Howl’s Moving Castle. With its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and flower-lined canals, Colmar looks like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook. The town’s vibrant colors and intricate architecture are reminiscent of the film’s bustling market squares and magical doorways. Miyazaki’s visit to Alsace left a lasting impression, and Colmar’s blend of French and German influences—evident in its cuisine, language, and design—echoes the film’s themes of cultural harmony and transformation. Strolling through Petite Venise, visitors half-expect to encounter Sophie or Howl himself around the next corner.

Despite their differences, both towns share a sense of otherworldliness that resonates deeply with Miyazaki’s storytelling. Civita’s haunting beauty speaks to themes of impermanence and resilience, while Colmar’s lively streets celebrate community and the magic of everyday life. These real-life settings remind us that Miyazaki’s genius lies not just in his imagination, but in his ability to find the extraordinary in the world around him. For fans of his films, visiting Civita di Bagnoregio and Colmar is like stepping into a living Studio Ghibli masterpiece—one where the line between fantasy and reality beautifully blurs.