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Ostello degli Elefanti & Welcome 2 Sicily in Catania

History, Training with the Erasmus+ project, the Community, the co-working space, Cultural and social Activities.

About us

Welcome 2 Sicily ETS is a social enterprise based in the heart of Catania, created to promote culture, inclusion, sustainability, and responsible tourism.
We manage the Ostello degli Elefanti, a unique cultural hub housed inside a 17th-century historic palace, where hospitality meets art, learning, events, coworking, and meaningful encounters between travelers and the local community.

We are registered in the Italian National Register of the Third Sector (RUNTS) under the section Impresa Sociale and operate as a nonprofit: all resources are reinvested into cultural, social, and environmental projects for the benefit of the city and its people.

Our Story

From the beginning, we imagined the hostel as more than just a place to sleep — a cultural laboratory, alive and connected to the city of Catania.

Over the years, we have:

  • hosted exhibitions by local artists, photographers, illustrators, and emerging creatives;
  • organized book presentations and talks with Sicilian authors;
  • promoted events with local performers and musicians, celebrating our territory’s artistic talent;
  • produced cultural, political, and social talks, public debates, and community discussions;
  • collaborated with LGBTQ+ associations to create inclusive and safe cultural events;
  • launched activities like our Free Pasta Experience, now a symbol of community and intercultural connection;
  • introduced Sicilian cooking classes, sharing traditional recipes and culinary heritage;
  • promoted plastic-free initiatives, waste reduction, and environmental awareness among guests and citizens;
  • supported green practices and sustainable tourism through workshops and educational events;

All of this has helped transform Welcome 2 Sicily ETS into a true cultural landmark in Catania.

Education, Erasmus+ Programs & Work Integration

We work closely with schools, vocational institutes, Italian and international universities, and multiple European projects such as Erasmus+.

Every year we welcome:

  • students from across Europe;
  • trainees from Erasmus+ mobility programs;
  • interns from tourism, hospitality, language, and cultural studies;
  • young people involved in training, volunteering, and community projects;
  • participants from local associations that promote social inclusion.

For many, the Ostello degli Elefanti is their first hands-on training experience in tourism, hospitality, cultural management, and event organization.

Several trainees who started their learning journey with us are now part of our team — tangible proof of the social impact and educational value of our work.

Our Community (over 10,000 Members every year)

Welcome 2 Sicily ETS is supported by a vibrant and diverse community of more than 10,000 members every year, including travelers, students, professionals, citizens, artists, and volunteers.

Thanks to them, we can:

  • preserve and enhance one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Catania;
  • organize free and accessible cultural events;
  • promote social inclusion and intercultural dialogue;
  • support artistic, educational, and community projects;
  • encourage responsible and sustainable tourism.

To all our members: thank you for helping us keep this space alive.

Our Coworking Space

Inside the hostel we created a coworking area open to travelers and the local community — a place to work, study, network, and meet new people.

It has quickly become much more than a workspace:

  • digital nomads;
  • Erasmus students;
  • freelancers;
  • remote workers;
  • young creatives.

All gather here to collaborate, share ideas, attend workshops, and participate in community events.

Our coworking represents our philosophy: open, accessible, sustainable spaces where people grow, learn, and connect.

Our Values and Approach

We believe in a Sicily that is:

  • welcoming and multicultural;
  • sustainable and environmentally conscious;
  • inclusive and free from discrimination;
  • alive with art, culture, and community spirit.

Every day we work to:

  • promote youth and social tourism;
  • encourage cultural exchange among people from all backgrounds;
  • enhance Sicilian identity through art, cuisine, and traditions;
  • support LGBTQ+ inclusion and safe spaces;
  • spread green practices and environmental awareness;
  • collaborate with local cultural and social organizations;
  • create events that unite travelers and the people of Catania.

Our Home

Welcome 2 Sicily ETS is based in the iconic Ostello degli Elefanti, located in Via Etnea 28 — one of Catania’s most historic and vibrant streets

Our space includes:

  • monumental 17th-century halls;
  • panoramic rooftops overlooking Mount Etna;
  • cultural, creative, and coworking areas;
  • open communal spaces for social and educational activities.

A true home for travelers, artists, students, and locals.

Legal Identity

Welcome 2 Sicily – Impresa Sociale ETS
Registered in the RUNTS – Impresa Sociale (Italian Third Sector)
Tax Code: 93216430871
Headquarters: Via Etnea 28, Catania

All resources are reinvested into social, cultural, and environmental projects.