Italy is famous for its stunning cities, culture, art and fabulous food, which attract tourists in their millions. Last year, some 50 million travellers descended on Italy, contributing billions of pounds to the national economy.

Many of those came from fellow European countries such as Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. One lesser-known feature of Italy, however, is its so-called ghost towns, which number around 5,000. Italians call these abandoned towns “the many sleeping beauties”, all waiting for curious visitors to come and wake them from their slumber.

Many of these ghost towns boast temples covered in moss, collapsed medieval abbeys and crumbling Renaissance fortresses.

Some of the most renowned ghost towns include Craco in Basilicata, Sostila in Lombardy and Villaggio Asproni in Sardinia.

Another is Balestrino in Liguria, a medieval town that has been abandoned since 1953.

Very little is known about the original city's history and origins, only adding to the mystery and intrigue that surrounds this most famous Italian ghost town.

Thousands of visitors come to the town each year, attracted by both its mystery and buildings.

The town dates back to at least the 11th century and its best-preserved building is the Byzantine castle of Del Carretto.

The first castle was built by the Bava family, nobles from Piedmont, who were the original feudal lords.

In the 16th century, the Del Carretto family came into power and built their castle.

The abandoned area is 1.5 hectares wide and is made up of other fascinating buildings such as the churches of St. George and St. Andrew, both constructed in 12th century.

The bridge of Deautra, covered in wild plants, is another beautiful corner of the ghost town.

Balestrino has also caught the eye of Hollywood producers, and was the location for the movie Inkheart, a 2008 fantasy adventure film featuring Dame Helen Mirren.