Explore Salemi: The Sicilian Town Offering Homes for €1

The idyllic Sicilian village of Salemi has become the latest spot in Italy to auction abandoned homes for €1 in a bid to revive its population. Noted for its medieval charms, Salemi was recently added to Italy’s most beautiful villages association and is ready to start a fresh chapter with new residents.

Situated in southwestern Sicily, Salemi has joined Italy’s €1 house scheme to address its dwindling population. The town is encouraging people to purchase some of its abandoned properties at auction, thereby breathing new life into the community. However, most houses on offer in Italy’s “ghost towns” require significant renovation, so the €1 price tag in Salemi comes with important considerations.

Prospective residents must submit a comprehensive plan detailing their renovation intentions, alongside a deposit of €3000. Furthermore, those who transform their property into a local business, such as a bed and breakfast, gallery, or restaurant, may apply for tax credits.

All the available homes are owned by the city council, which facilitates quicker sales and reduces bureaucratic hurdles. The town mayor, Domenico Venuti, stated that, “Before launching the scheme we first had to recover the old parts of Salemi where the houses are located, upgrading infrastructures and services from roads to electric grids and sewage pipes. Now the town is ready for the next step.” This planning underscores the community’s commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere for new inhabitants.

Approximately a dozen homes will be auctioned for €1, with properties sold to the highest bidder. Photos of the homes will be posted here soon, allowing interested parties to view them before making their selections. Most of the homes are located within Salemi’s attractive historic center, characterized by cobbled streets and family-friendly bars and cafes that spill into charming piazzas. The town is further enriched by surrounding olive groves and vineyards, with ample access to hiking trails.

Although it’s a quiet town, Salemi is known for its vibrant community events. Every year, jazz enthusiasts flock to attend a festival dedicated to musician Tony Scott, whose parents emigrated from Salemi to the US. Additionally, the town hosts an annual mini Oktoberfest, along with various food festivals that celebrate local culture. Easy accessibility is another advantage, as Salemi is situated just an hour and a half drive from Sicily’s capital, Palermo.