The historiography of contemporary Europe has predominantly centered around urban and metropolitan experiences. Meanwhile, rural regions, their inhabitants, and village life have often been depicted as hindrances to modernization or as manifestations of backwardness. With the decline of modernization theory’s prominence in contemporary history, the emphasis on urban cultures has only intensified. In this regard, I propose a paradigm shift in our approach to contemporary European history, advocating for a greater focus on rural spaces. By doing so, we can more comprehensively examine the intricate web of transformations, encompassing cultural, technological, economic, spatial, and other dimensions, and explore how local, regional, national, and transnational actors have orchestrated and influenced these profound changes. This shift in perspective necessitates methodological flexibility and a heightened awareness of the multitude of actors and arenas involved in shaping these developments.