The residents would of course know each other through ties of family, friendship, and business, and they would enjoy visits, meals, and small parties back and forth from one villa to another. That is how Italians and Provencal French live in the countryside today, envied by all who have even a glimpse of such life.
Yes...we watch Italian property videos and periodically such a borgo comes up for sale.
The main house and several support buildings and other houses grouped together in a small enclave. Sounds very much like this villa set up.
I guess it made sense for some.
Thanks.