Amid global reactions to Donald Trump’s presidential re-election, a small village on the Italian island of Sardinia has identified an unusual opportunity.
Ollolai, like many rural areas in Italy, has struggled with depopulation for decades. In response, it has launched an ambitious campaign to attract new residents, particularly Americans, by offering a range of affordable housing options.
For years, Ollolai has been enticing outsiders with dilapidated houses available for as little as one euro—approximately $1.05 USD. Following the November 5 election, the village has taken its efforts a step further. A new website specifically targets potential American expats, presenting them with an invitation to purchase these homes or take advantage of other unique accommodations.
Housing Options to Suit Different Needs
The village now offers three distinct tiers of housing:
- Free Temporary Homes for Digital Nomads: Select remote workers can live rent-free while contributing to the community through projects such as artwork or books.
- One-Euro Homes: These properties require significant renovation but come with the potential for a rewarding transformation.
- Ready-to-Move-In Homes: Fully renovated and modernized homes are available for prices up to 100,000 euros ($105,000).
To simplify the process, Mayor Francesco Columbu has assembled a dedicated team to assist prospective buyers. The team provides tailored private tours of the available properties, connects buyers with local contractors and builders, and helps navigate the paperwork. Plans and photographs of the properties will soon be available on the new website.
Why Americans Are the Focus
Ollolai’s mayor has made it clear that Americans are the primary audience for this initiative. While applications are open to all nationalities, US citizens will receive preferential treatment, including expedited processing. Mayor Columbu expressed his admiration for the United States, calling Americans “the best people” to help rejuvenate the village.
The village’s website directly appeals to those disenchanted with global politics, offering a chance to embrace a simpler lifestyle in the scenic Sardinian countryside. While the site avoids direct mention of Trump, Columbu acknowledges that the timing is strategic, designed to address the growing interest among Americans seeking an escape.
A Declining Population and a Chance for Revival
Once a bustling community with a population of 2,250 in the early 20th century, Ollolai has seen its numbers dwindle to around 1,150 residents today. The decline has been exacerbated by economic hardships, driving families to seek better opportunities elsewhere. The village sees the influx of new residents as crucial to reversing this trend.
Although earlier initiatives have not achieved the desired impact, with only 10 homes sold and renovated since 2018, Columbu remains optimistic. Roughly 100 homes remain unoccupied and are ready for sale, with detailed listings to be made available online.
A Blend of Tradition and Opportunity
Nestled in a remote mountainous region, Ollolai offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking to disconnect from the fast-paced modern world. The village boasts pollution-free air, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.
Highlights include the Cortes Apertas festival in the fall, which invites visitors to enjoy local delicacies like wine, ham, and the renowned Casu Fiore Sardo cheese. The village also hosts a unique masked carnival in February, featuring archaic rituals and goat-like costumes.
A Welcoming Offer for All Ages and Backgrounds
Ollolai’s campaign is open to Americans of all ages, including retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs interested in starting small businesses. The village aims to create a vibrant and diverse community that will contribute to its revival.
For those seeking a fresh start or a quieter life, Ollolai’s initiative offers a rare blend of affordability, charm, and opportunity. With nearly 38,000 inquiries flooding the town hall—most of them from the US—the small Sardinian village may soon find itself revitalized by a wave of American newcomers eager to embrace the European dream.
