Italy
Italy
Monday
Our mobility started already on Sunday, when we left a snowy morning behind and travelled to the sun-soaked Italian town of Rosolini. Monday, February 9, 2026 was very varied and full of experiences. We started the day at the partner school, where we listened to the Italian national anthem and beautiful songs performed by the school children's choir. Afterwards, teachers from the individual countries introduced their schools and thanked the hosts for their warm welcome. After a short break, during which it started raining and a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky, we travelled by bus to the town of Avola. We were welcomed by a representative of the city council, who introduced us to the allegorical floats with carnival characters that are prepared throughout the whole year. We learned what the preparation and creation of the individual figures involves; they are made of paper. This traditional carnival festival lasts for three days, and we were very lucky because these figures can normally only be seen by the public during the festival itself. On the way back, we stopped at the town hall, where we were received by the mayor of the city. On this occasion, we presented her with a book – a gift from our mayor. During our transfer, police officers supervised us and ensured our safety. At the town hall we also saw an exhibition dedicated to the Italian carnival and learned about its history and traditions. At the end of the day, we returned by bus to the host families, where a delicious lunch and a pleasant time spent with the families were waiting for us.
(Mariana Badárová, Sára Dudášiková, 9.B)
Tuesday
Tuesday was very fun and adventurous. After arriving at the school, our hosts showed us what lessons in an Italian school look like, and we had the opportunity to observe different classes directly in the classrooms. We attended mathematics, history, and geography lessons. Afterwards, we were divided into two groups. One group made carnival masks, while the other worked on computers – we solved quizzes and took part in various interactive activities. After the workshops finished, we returned to regular classes again. We had lunch with our host families, and in the afternoon we moved to the main square in Rosolini, where an Italian teacher explained the rules of the Escape game. Through fun and creative tasks, we learned many interesting facts about the history and traditions of this town. After this activity, we visited a local church where a guide told us about its history – how it was bombed during World War II and later rebuilt, and that there are tombs located underneath the church. We also visited a local community centre where elderly women were preparing homemade pasta to be sold during the three-day carnival festival. The proceeds from the sales will be donated to charity. This day was a very interesting and enriching experience for everyone.
(Denis Tomčík, 9.B)
Wednesday
This morning began with breakfast and preparations for a long-awaited full-day trip. As early as seven o'clock, we all met at the bus stop and set off by bus towards the "mother of Sicily" – the majestic volcano Etna. However, the weather was not very favorable today, so we were not able to reach the very top. The wind was blowing at speeds of up to 60 km/h. Despite this, we did not miss out on this unique experience – our guide provided us with an interesting explanation during the journey directly on the bus. When we got off the bus, we were welcomed by a fascinating view of enormous snow walls reaching heights of up to four meters. It was truly an unforgettable sight. There was also a small souvenir shop where many of us bought a nice keepsake. From Etna, we continued to Catania, where museums were waiting for us. In the Lava Museum, we watched an engaging video about the history and eruptions of Mount Etna, and afterwards we explored the exhibition itself, while our guide added interesting information and facts. Our next stop was a museum dedicated to World War II, where we had the opportunity to explore the exhibition individually and absorb the powerful stories of the past at our own pace. Thus, our rich and experience-filled day slowly came to an end. The bus took us back to our "homes," where our host families were already waiting for us in front of the school. We symbolically finished the day by watching a hockey match together, which we won – giving us yet another reason to smile after all the experiences of the day.
(Kristína Turbeková, Bibiána Olešová, 9.A)
Thursday
This morning we were woken up by a heavy downpour—it was raining cats and dogs. For a moment we even wondered if we might have to go home by boat. Luckily, the whole program was scheduled at the school. While everything was being prepared, they took us to their classroom. I started working on a quiz (and I actually enjoyed it quite a lot), while the girls devoted themselves enthusiastically to making carnival masks. Later it was time for handing out certificates and taking group photos that will remind us of these moments for a long time. At one o'clock we headed back to our host families for a real Italian siesta—and it was definitely worth it. At home I was welcomed with spaghetti with seafood—clams. I must admit, I felt like I was in a real Italian restaurant. After a great lunch and a short rest, we returned to the school again. There a presentation was waiting for us. We felt a bit nervous, but also very determined—and we managed it really well. Afterwards, the parents prepared a demonstration of traditional pasta making. My "grandfather" from the host family I was staying with also played a main role. It was amazing to watch how something so typically Italian is made from simple dough. Of course, there was also a tasting—I even tried raw pasta, which reminded me in taste of our homemade noodles. We finished the program at half past six—tired, but full of new experiences. And since we needed to recharge our energy, in the evening we treated ourselves to burgers in a restaurant with our classmates. Laughter and a great atmosphere were the perfect ending to today's rainy (and for Sicily quite unusual) weather, yet still a very successful day.
(Hugo Maslan, 9.B)
Friday
Today we went on a full-day trip to the city of Syracuse. We left Rosolini at 8:30 in the morning, and after about an hour of a pleasant bus ride we arrived at our destination. First, we visited the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, where we were guided by a tour guide. We learned a lot of interesting information about ancient Syracuse and admired the ancient theatre as well as other valuable archaeological monuments. The atmosphere of this place made a strong impression on us, and for a moment we felt as if we had traveled back into ancient history. Later, we walked around the city, enjoyed authentic Italian ice cream, admired the sea, and visited the Duomo di Siracusa. In the cathedral, we learned how its appearance had changed throughout different historical periods. Thanks to virtual reality, we were able to imagine these transformations even more vividly and authentically. After returning by bus to our host families, we had a short rest and in the evening we met at a restaurant for a farewell party. We celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Erasmus+ program and wished Denis a happy birthday. Together we enjoyed our last evening full of laughter, memories, and a great atmosphere. On Saturday morning we said goodbye to our Italian host families, and after an unforgettable week we returned home with many wonderful experiences and memories that we will remember for a long time.
(Ester Maťugová, 9.B and Ema Čajková, 9.A)
Feedback
Kristína Turbeková
I really enjoyed the mobility in Italy, in Sicily. The journey there and back went smoothly without any problems. We stayed in the small town of Rosolini. The school and our host families prepared a great programme for us. Even though the weather was not always good, we always had something interesting to do. My favourite day was Monday, when our host families took us to the seaside. During the mobility, we also learned how to make homemade pasta. I would like to thank the Erasmus+ programme for giving me the opportunity to visit such a beautiful country and improve my English.
Mariana Badárová
During my Erasmus stay in Italy, I experienced many new things. I got to know a different country, culture, and many new people. I really liked how kind and friendly everyone was. I also had the chance to try many delicious new dishes. At first, it was a little difficult because people did not speak English very well, and it also took some time to get used to the new environment. However, I adapted quickly. I learned to be more independent and not to be afraid of trying new things. This experience gave me many valuable memories, and I am very happy that I had the opportunity to take part in it. I would definitely recommend this experience to other students.
Sára Dudášiková
The mobility in Italy was a wonderful break for me before the T9 exams. The host family I stayed with was kind and welcoming. Erasmus gave me the opportunity to improve my ability to handle stress and quickly adapt to a new environment. Most importantly, I improved my English speaking skills. The programme throughout the week was interesting, and I also appreciated that my host family spent their free time with me. I would recommend this experience to anyone who wants not only to improve their English but also to become more confident in communicating and interacting with other people. I still keep in touch with my host family, and there is a good chance that we will visit them in Italy again.
Denis Tomčík
The mobility in Italy was great. Although we could not visit the top of Mount Etna because of the weather, we were able to see it and travel part of the way by bus. Our host families and teachers were kind and welcoming. The programme was fun and full of interesting activities. After the daily programme, we sometimes stayed at home, but most of the time we went out somewhere with our host families. My favourite day was Tuesday because we took part in fun activities that helped us get to know the town.
Bibiana Olešová
It was an amazing trip, and I enjoyed every moment of it. I am truly happy that I had the opportunity to travel to Italy. What I liked the most were the beautiful Italian town, the historical landmarks, Mount Etna, and the sea. The food was fantastic and quite different from what we usually eat in Slovakia. I never thought I would eat horse meat one day, but I did, and it was surprisingly delicious. The best part of the trip was my host family, and together we shared many wonderful moments full of adventure. The biggest disadvantage was the rainy weather, but we still enjoyed the experience. Rosolini is a truly beautiful town, and I would also like to thank my host family for the lovely gifts they gave me at the end of the Erasmus programme.
Ester Maťugová
Italy was wonderful. The food was excellent, the people were friendly, and the weather was warm—I have nothing to complain about. I brought home many beautiful memories from Italy. We improved our English, learned a few Italian words, and discovered Italian culture and the lively temperament of the Italian people. Our host family had many animals, so we also enjoyed spending time with them. I would recommend this mobility to anyone who enjoys travelling, wants to improve their English, and likes meeting new people.
Hugo Maslan
Italy was amazing. Our flight went smoothly, and when we landed, the weather was very pleasant. The people were welcoming, and in the evenings I often played cards with my host family. I was so hungry in Italy that I even ate horse meat, and I have to say it was really delicious. I was never bored because the activities were great. My favourite day was Wednesday, when we visited a museum and went to see Mount Etna.
Ema Čajková
My stay in Sicily, Italy, was a wonderful experience. The journey there and back went smoothly without any problems. We stayed in the small town of Rosolini, where kind host families welcomed us, and the school prepared an interesting programme for us. I really liked my host family, and I was happy to make new friends. Although the weather was not always favourable, the programme was well organised, and we were never bored. My favourite day was Friday, when we visited the city of Syracuse. It was a beautiful city, and I really enjoyed spending time there. I am grateful to the Erasmus+ programme for giving me the opportunity to have this experience, discover another country, and improve my English.