Host a Restored Sicilian Home with Airbnb

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Claudia Zalla, Davide Mandolini

Airbnb has created an opportunity for an applicant to live in a restored Sicilian home in Sambuca absolutely rent-free for a year.

The Italian heritage home, once in a state of decay, has received a beautiful upgrade, and adventurers are encouraged to apply to host the space. The concept behind the project is to boost tourism and bring temporary residents to the village of Sambuca.

With remote working on the rise, people have the opportunity to live abroad, and Airbnb saw this as the perfect opportunity to encourage people to take the chance to explore the world and lesser-known towns, villages and cities. Applicants needn’t go alone, they are welcome to bring a friend, family or partner to experience this once-in-a-lifetime dream with them.

The three-story heritage home in the heart of Samba – which is known for its “1 Euro House Campaign” – launched in 2018 to highlight the cultural heritage and encourage international investment after a hit by the declining population. The beautiful village is slowly being transformed into a vibrant hub and appealing to a younger market. The home was revived with help from the Italian architectural firm Studio Didea. The colours and textures work with the local village and landscape in a juxtaposition of contemporary and classic designs, showcasing handmade and artisan design elements.

The spacious building spans three floors, with plenty of room to work remotely and Host on Airbnb. The ground floor comprises a small living room, master bedroom with king-size bed and en-suite bathroom. The first floor includes a living room, kitchen, working space, bathroom and mezzanine bedroom with a king-size bed. The upper floor includes an additional living space with a queen-size sofa bed. 

“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,” says Leonardo Ciaccio, Mayor of Sambuca di Sicilia. “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!”

Candidates should be keen to contribute and host in the village and residency begins on 30th June 2022. the successful candidate will retain all of the earnings from Airbnb hosting.

To apply, visit airbnb.com/1eurohouse and complete the application form. Before applying, carefully read the Selection Terms available on the website. 

Looking for more local escapes? Take a look at the Robertson Small Hotel.