This viewpoint article is aimed at critically scrutinizing both institutional and bottom-up narratives about post-COVID planning scenarios in Italy. Through a critical multimedia discourse analysis, the article tries to deconstruct the most recurring narratives about the future of cities in Italy, particularly those interlacing smart city rhetoric with alternative models of settlements and “soft” planning micro-actions, in order to highlight both conflictual perspectives and new potential paths to follow for a more inclusive tech-led urban development.

Post-COVID planning in Italy combines smart city rhetoric with alternative settlement models and "soft" planning micro-actions, potentially leading to more inclusive tech-led urban development.

Smart Technologies, Back-to-the-Village Rhetoric, and Tactical Urbanism

Key Takeaway: Post-COVID planning in Italy combines smart city rhetoric with alternative settlement models and "soft" planning micro-actions, potentially leading to more inclusive tech-led urban development.