Italy: ESC: Morigerati Rural Lab: Autumn 2026

Presentation of the programme

For this project in Morigerati, Salerno (Italy), we are looking for 9 participants aged 18-30. Morigerati is a small village with around 300 inhabitants, located in the green hills of the southern Cilento National Park in Campania, Italy.

About the accomodation

Like many villages in southern Italy, Morigerati faces the risk of silent extinction due to the continuous emigration of young people in search of work opportunities elsewhere. This ESC Team Project supports the development of sustainable, community-based tourism as a long-term source of income for young people, while responding to another urgent local need: the shortage of young hands to sustain traditional agriculture. Taking place during the autumn olive harvest, the project combines tourism activities with hands-on support in the olive groves and care of the land. International volunteers will help strengthen local capacities, keep traditional practices alive, and create meaningful, authentic experiences for visitors and residents alike.

About the leisure activities

Volunteers will stay in a modern fully equipped apartment with three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and common spaces in walking distance to the village centre. Meals will be self-managed; a small supermarket and a butcher provide nearly everything needed. There is a public transport once a day to and from the coast (Villammare, Sapri). The nearest airports are Salerno Costa d'Amalfi, Naples and Lamezia Terme, the closest train station is Sapri. Travel costs will be reimbursed according to ESC guidelines, with additional support for green travel.

Requirements

The Participant profile: During the project, volunteers receive non-formal training from Angelika Bartholomäi, expert in sustainable rural tourism and project coordinator, and from Demetria Barra, WWF Grotte del Bussento, on natural and cultural highlights. Transluoghi Ecomuseo del Bussento Contemporaneo introduces local heritage. During the olive harvest, an oil miller and local olive growers guide volunteers through traditional harvesting and pressing practices. Training follows a learning-by-doing approach, building skills in sustainable tourism, land care, and teamwork.Deadline: 01/09/2026 23:59