House for 1 euro: Sicily is once again selling property for almost nothing. What’s the catch and who can buy

Buying a house in Italy for just 1 euro is not a marketing gimmick, but a very real program that has been operating for several years in small towns and villages across the country. In 2026, several municipalities in Sicily are once again accepting applications from people interested in buying abandoned homes at a symbolic price.

The main goal of the program is to bring life back to old settlements that have been losing residents for decades. Young people move to larger cities, many buildings remain empty and gradually fall into disrepair. Instead of demolishing such houses, local authorities offer them to new owners for practically nothing.

What the buyer gets

For 1 euro, you can buy an old house located in picturesque Sicilian towns with narrow medieval streets, historic architecture and stunning mountain views. The program includes both well-known tourist destinations and small villages that few people had heard of before.

However, the symbolic price comes with certain obligations.

What’s the catch

The buyer must fully or partially restore the purchased house at their own expense within a set period of time. Depending on the municipality, the deadlines and requirements differ, but usually several years are allotted for repairs.

In addition, in some settlements a security deposit must be paid, which is returned after the program’s conditions are met. The new owner will also have to pay notary fees, document processing costs, taxes and the renovation itself, which often runs into tens of thousands of euros.

As a result, the real cost of such housing is significantly higher than the symbolic one euro.

Who can take part

In many cases, not only Italian citizens but also foreigners can participate. At the same time, buying property in itself does not grant the right to residence or citizenship. For long-term stay, the relevant documents must be obtained separately in accordance with Italian law.

Why the program is considered successful

Despite the additional expenses, interest in such houses remains high. Many buyers turn old buildings into cozy family homes, mini-hotels, guest houses or tourist apartments.

In some Sicilian towns, the program has already helped restore hundreds of abandoned homes, attract foreign investors, open new cafes, hotels and shops, and breathe new life into historic centers that not long ago were gradually emptying out.

For many, the opportunity to buy a house for the symbolic 1 euro becomes a chance to fulfill the dream of living in Italy. However, one should not count on “free property” — the program requires serious investment, time and a willingness to undertake major reconstruction. But for those who have long wanted to move to an atmospheric Italian village or start a tourism business, this can be a profitable investment.