Erasmus for Seniors: When Sicily Meets Valencia in a Lifelong Learning Adventure

From the sun-drenched coasts of Sicily to the vibrant heart of Valencia, a recent Erasmus Adult education project, Attivamente 2.0, proved that learning truly has no age limit. At ESMOVIA, we were thrilled to host 17 spirited participants from the Università del Tempo Libero di Palermo for an unforgettable week of senior mobility and cultural discovery.

A Journey Through Time: Connecting Two Rich Histories

Did you know that Sicily and the Valencian Community are cousins, joined by centuries of shared history? This powerful connection, woven through language, gastronomy, and folklore, was the backdrop for this incredible journey. Our participants didn’t just visit Valencia; they uncovered the cultural threads that bind their Italian home to their Spanish host, turning a simple trip into a profound exploration of their shared European heritage.

Beyond the Classroom: Hands-On Cultural Immersion

This was no ordinary sightseeing tour. Our Sicilian friends dove headfirst into active learning, blending cultural visits with unforgettable, hands-on experiences. Their days were filled with:

• Deep-Dive Workshops: Engaging sessions on local history and religious folklore brought the past to life.
• A Journey Through History & Culture: They explored the very soul of Valencia, discovering the threads that connect it to Sicily.
• A Royal Connection: They visited San Juan del Hospital church, the city’s most ancient church, which holds the remains of Costanza of Sicily, daughter of King Frederick II, creating a powerful link to their Italian home.
• Living Traditions: They immersed themselves in the El Cabanyal fishermen’s neighbourhood, focusing on its unique and deeply-rooted Holy Week traditions.
• Award-Winning Heritage: A guided tour of the Ethnographic Museum of Valencia, crowned Europe’s Best Museum in 2023, provided a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
• The Scent of Valencia: In a lively, hands-on workshop, they mastered the art of cooking a traditional Valencian paella. It was more than a recipe; it was a taste of local culture and a feast of friendship.

Sharing Wisdom: A Focus on Active Ageing

A highlight of the week was the powerful exchange on active ageing. The group visited local centres, where they connected with Valencian seniors, sharing stories, laughter, and best practices for living a healthy, fulfilling life.

For those with a professional interest, a unique job shadowing opportunity offered a behind-the-scenes look at Valencia’s strategy for combating loneliness and promoting active ageing, fostering a valuable dialogue between the communities.

Erasmus for All Ages: Your Journey Awaits

This inspiring project is a testament to the power of the Erasmus+ program to transform lives at any stage. Adult learning abroad is more than education; it’s a catalyst for personal growth, new friendships, and a deeper connection to our shared European identity.

Ready to write your own chapter?

At ESMOVIA, we believe in the power of mobility to change lives. Whether you are part of a senior group or an educational institution, we are here to help you embark on your own Erasmus+ adventure.