Live the Italian Dream: Your Chance to Host from a Designer 1 Euro Home in Sicily

Imagine living rent-free in a beautifully renovated Italian home for a year, all while earning income as an Airbnb host. This dream can become a reality thanks to Airbnb’s unique initiative in Sambuca, Sicily, offering an extraordinary opportunity centered around the now-famous “1 Euro House” campaign. This isn’t just about cheap property in Italy; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture, contribute to a vibrant community, and experience the burgeoning trend of slow living in a stunning Mediterranean setting.

Sambuca, a picturesque village known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, gained international attention with its innovative “1 Euro House” campaign. Faced with population decline, Sambuca decided to revitalize itself by offering homes for sale for just 1 euro. The goal was to attract new residents, inject fresh energy into the community, and preserve the unique cultural heritage of this Sicilian gem. Airbnb is now amplifying this vision by seeking an individual to live in and host from one of these transformed 1 Euro houses.

“The beauty of this campaign is that it gives a second chance not just to an abandoned heritage home in the heart of our village – it’s also a second chance to the person who moves into it. We see it as a designer makeover for the house and the Host. We’re looking for someone who wants to live with the local population and participate in all the important moments of the community, from the grape harvest to olive picking and we can’t wait to welcome whoever gets selected!”

Leonardo Ciaccio, Mayor of Sambuca di Sicilia

This initiative is more than just acquiring a 1 euro property in Italy; it’s an invitation to become part of a community. Ideal candidates are those eager to embrace village life, contribute to local events, and become active members of Sambuca. The chosen individual will reside in the designer 1 Euro House for a year, starting June 30th, and will benefit from all hosting income generated through Airbnb.

Inside the Designer 1 Euro House

What sets this opportunity apart is the exceptional transformation of the 1 Euro House. Airbnb partnered with Studio Didea, an Italian architectural firm, to meticulously renovate the property. The design philosophy focused on harmonizing contemporary aesthetics with local materials and traditional Sicilian craftsmanship. The result is a stunning blend of modern comfort and authentic charm, creating a truly unique living space.

The spacious three-story house offers ample room for both living and hosting. It’s designed for modern living, including remote work capabilities, alongside the charm of a traditional Italian home.

• The ground floor features a cozy living area, a master bedroom with a luxurious king-size bed, and a private en-suite bathroom.
• The first floor provides a second living room, a fully equipped modern kitchen, a dedicated workspace, another bathroom, and a mezzanine bedroom also with a king-size bed.
• The top floor offers a flexible living space with a comfortable queen-size sofa bed, perfect for guests or relaxation.

The selected host will have the privilege of choosing their preferred bedroom, while the second bedroom will be available for Airbnb guests. This unique 1 Euro home offers a blend of private living and hosting potential in a truly remarkable setting.

Discover Sambuca: More Than Just a 1 Euro House Location

Sambuca is not just a location for a cheap home in Italy; it’s a vibrant village brimming with character. Home to around 6,000 residents, Sambuca boasts a unique cultural tapestry woven from Italian and North African influences, reflected in its architecture and local traditions. The 1 Euro House campaign has already attracted a growing international community of individuals seeking a slower pace of life, drawn from bustling cities to the tranquility of rural Italy.

This opportunity to live in a 1 Euro house in Sambuca is a chance to join this international community and experience the authentic Italian lifestyle. You’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, immersed in local traditions, and welcomed into a warm and inviting community.

How to Apply for Your 1 Euro House Hosting Opportunity

Ready to seize this incredible opportunity to live and host from a designer 1 Euro house in Italy? Applying is straightforward. Simply visit airbnb.com/1eurohouse and complete the online application form. Before applying, be sure to carefully review the Selection Terms and Conditions available on the website to ensure you meet all requirements.

Key requirements include being over 18 years of age, availability to relocate to Sambuca for a minimum of three consecutive months starting June 30th, 2022, and proficiency in conversational English (Italian language skills are considered a bonus). The selected participant will also benefit from a mentorship program, including Italian language lessons and Italian cooking classes, further enhancing their immersion in the local culture. A commitment to hosting one room in the house for at least nine months is also essential.

The chosen participant can bring a partner, friend, or family members (up to two adults and two children total) to share this unique 1 Euro house experience. Living rent-free and retaining all Airbnb hosting income, this is an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Italian dream in Sambuca.

Airbnb’s Commitment to Italian Heritage and the 1 Euro House Vision

This Sambuca initiative underscores Airbnb’s dedication to supporting heritage and promoting sustainable tourism in Italy. The 1 Euro House campaign aligns perfectly with the changing travel landscape, where travelers are increasingly seeking unique experiences in less-traveled destinations. Data shows a significant shift away from major Italian cities towards regions like Sicily, highlighting a growing interest in authentic, rural Italian experiences.

Airbnb is actively supporting this trend by collaborating with villages like Sambuca, helping to revive their cultural heritage and economic vitality. Previous initiatives, such as the restoration of an artist’s house in Civita, the Italian Sabbatical program in Grottole, and the Italian Villages Project, demonstrate Airbnb’s ongoing commitment to promoting small-town Italy and sustainable tourism. The 1 Euro House project in Sambuca is a testament to this commitment, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Italy and contribute to the revitalization of a charming village.

Please remember to travel responsibly and stay informed about the latest local and international travel guidelines and health regulations related to COVID-19.