These past few weeks in Soverato, Italy, have been nothing short of extraordinary. Along the stunning coastline of Calabria, this charming seaside town is not at all what I expected.
My time has been spent exploring every corner of this beautiful city. The narrow streets, the colorful buildings, and the warmth of the local people have made wandering through Soverato an absolute joy. I have also ventured up to Soverato Superiore, the older hilltop village that overlooks the coast. There, perched among ancient stone walls and quiet alleyways, stands a remarkable church steeped in centuries of history. The views from up there are breathtaking, stretching across the Ionian Sea, and standing in that peaceful setting felt nothing short of breathtaking. Beyond the history and the sightseeing, Soverato truly comes alive after dark. The city transforms in the evening, with locals and visitors alike filling the streets, gathering at cafés, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. I have spent many evenings exploring the buzzing bars and lively venues, meeting new people. There is something magical about walking through the warm night air with the sound of music and laughter drifting from every direction. Of course, no visit to Soverato would be complete without its beaches. The soft white sand and crystal-clear waters are among the finest in all of Calabria. I have spent countless afternoons strolling along the shoreline, watching the waves roll in, and simply enjoying the serenity of the Mediterranean. On my first day I noticed a basketball court. Instantly, I knew I was going to have fun playing and meeting new likeminded people.
What has truly made this experience exceptional, however, is the work. My colleagues here have been wonderful, creating a. supportive and inspiring environment that has made every day feel rewarding. The work itself is very manageable. And at times very fun to do. The work environment is very professional, but at the same time very calm and stressless. One of the most fun I’ve had however, was when we were tasked with creating a board game that was meant to help people learn the 54 fundamental rights of the EU. And then witnessing people play the game and enjoying it, was a breathtaking experience.
Overall, my time here has been wonderful, and full of surprises. The experiences, the people, the culture. Nothing ceases to amaze me. I hope the rest of my Erasmus project continues to be as amazing, and eventful as it is.
Kristijan Dencic
