Stone & Story: Castle Renovation in Slovakia (ISL2504ESC)
Dates: 09/08/2025 – 24/08/2025
Age: 18–30
Number of volunteers: Max 10
- Still room for: 4 Male + 1 Female
More info: HERE
Project Overview
Take part in a unique cultural heritage project in the small town of Kysak, nestled in eastern Slovakia. Volunteers will support the revitalization of the hidden ruins of Kysak Castle—a medieval structure that now lies underground. Although the ruins aren’t visible above ground, this project plays a key role in archaeological research and preservation efforts.
The main task will be exploring and cleaning the foundations of the old castle tower, assisting archaeologists, and helping with basic renovation work. Volunteers will transport materials like sand, rocks, and water, and help clean the surrounding area. There’s also a chance to support similar work at nearby castles, such as Obisovce or Hanigovce.
In addition to the hands-on work, volunteers will learn about Eastern Slovakia’s medieval history and may assist in organizing local cultural events. No prior experience in construction or archaeology is needed—just curiosity, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
Work schedule: Monday to Friday, approximately 8:30–15:00, including a lunch break.
Impact: This project contributes to the protection of local cultural heritage and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Accommodation & Food
Volunteers will stay in a shared room in the local town house of Kysak. Beds and mattresses are provided—just don’t forget your sleeping bag! The house has shared bathroom and shower facilities, plus a fully equipped kitchen.
Meals will be a shared experience:
-
Breakfast & dinner: Prepared by volunteers in kitchen teams (groceries provided)
-
Lunch: Provided by the local partner
Vegetarian meals are available upon request.
Location & Free Time
Kysak is a small town and railway hub, conveniently located near Košice, Slovakia’s second-largest city. There are excellent train connections to both Košice and Prešov.
In your free time, enjoy:
-
Day trips to nearby castles like Obisovce and Sokoľ
-
Hikes in the scenic nature trails surrounding the village
-
Cultural visits to explore local Slovak traditions
Hosted by
The project is organized by Rakociho cesta, a civic association dedicated to preserving historic sites linked to the legacy of the Rákóczi family. Since 2008, they’ve hosted workcamps to renovate castles and revive cultural traditions throughout the region. Their long-term vision is to connect historical sites through a “Rákóczi Path”—a route celebrating regional heritage.
Meeting Point
Volunteers should arrive at the local town house in Kysak on 09/08/2025 around 17:00. Final details will be shared in an infosheet at least 4 weeks before the camp.
What to Bring
Don’t forget your essentials:
-
Sleeping bag
-
Comfortable working clothes & gloves
-
Warm clothes and raincoat
-
Strong boots and insect repellent
-
Flashlight, swimming suit, and some games from your country
-
Most importantly, a good mood and an open heart!
Learning & Participation
Volunteers will take part in:
-
Feast of Cultures: an international evening to share your country’s food with the local community
-
Volunteering Footprint Workshop: reflect on your role as a volunteer
-
European Topics Workshop: learn and discuss current European issues
The camp follows the values of the Sustainability Campaign.
Good to Know
The Kysak Castle project is in its early stages, and most activities take place in the forest—note that there is no toilet on-site. A strong motivation is important, and the host encourages volunteers to write their motivation letters themselves.
This project is part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and is open to young people aged 18–30 who meet the ESC criteria. Travel costs are reimbursed up to a certain amount based on distance, and all selected volunteers must register in the ESC Portal and get matched by INEX Slovakia.
){kind=link}