5Sambuca di Sicilia, Italy
The picturesque town of Sambuca di Sicilia, located on the island of Sicily, made headlines in 2019 when it launched its €1 home initiative to combat declining population numbers. Sambuca is a charming hilltop town surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its beauty, Sambuca, like many rural towns in Italy, has faced significant population decline as younger generations move to cities in search of work, leaving many houses abandoned.
In an effort to revitalize the town, local officials offered a number of homes for €1 (approximately $1). The catch? Buyers were required to renovate the properties, with an investment of around €15,000 to €25,000 ($16,000 to $27,000), within three years. The homes, often in need of substantial repair, represent a mix of traditional Sicilian architecture, with thick stone walls, tiled roofs, and courtyards.
This initiative has proven to be a success, attracting buyers from all over the world. For those willing to invest in a restoration project, Sambuca offers the opportunity to own a slice of Italian heritage at an unbeatable price.
