Claiming Property in Italy

[scorpione]

Hi,
Does anybody have experience in claiming property that ones ancestors owned in Italy and left to ones father etc. I have seen the property in Pontelatone ,30 miles north of Naples. It is excellent farm land and is presently used to grow grapes and olives by a cousin who pays a very small fee to rent the land from the government.I have heard that even if one has not ever paid taxes the land remains in their name.Also, any idea as to value of such land ? I would probably share some profit with cousins whom I have met and liked on my one visit to this part of Italy in 1983.My dad once tried to do something years ago but was told by his attorney that he would need to pay not only the US lawyer but an Italian lawyer also. Dad thought the cost of the Italian lawyer should come out of the one third to be paid to the US lawyer. He gave up when the US lawyer insisted that dad also give another third to the Italian lawyer.More than the $ I would like to feel that my grandfather's land went to his direct family with whom he spent the last 55 years of his life.
Finally, does anybody know about a PROCURA? I believe it has to do with allowing someone to use your land in your absence.In the past relatives have asked for us to sign one for them.

Many thanks to all who read this post . Caio, Joe

[Emmy]

Hi Scorpion
When I was enquiring about Jennifer's post re buying property in Italy. I was told if someone was given permission to use the property (not sure about them paying a rent) but if that person paid the taxes etc. that if they did this for 20 years then the property automatically belongs to them and the owner then has no claim on it.
Dont know if this will be of any help.
God Bless
Emmy

[scorpione]

Thanks, Emmy.Our case may be different since we never gave permission .At any rate will keep your info in my mind(such as it is) for the next time we visit beautiful Italy with a purpose of exploring this further. Take care. Joe

[Emmy]

I'll keep fingers crossed for you and your family Joe and hope everything will have a positive outcome for you all.
God Bless
Emmy