📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
The Civil Association Rakociho cesta carries the idea of a touristic path that would connect places related to the history of the Rakoci\'s family tree. The aim of the movement is to preserve and renovate historical monuments and traditions. They would like to continue with the original “Rakoci\'s path“ goal which was to contribute to the development of the region. Rakociho cesta is currently involved in the renovation of the following castles: Saris, Kapusany, Sebes, Solnohrad (Salt Castle), Lipovce and Obisovce. The workcamps have been organized with the association since 2008.
💼 What the programme involves
Volunteers will be helping with revitalizing the old ruins of the small Kysak Castle in eastern part of Slovakia. Kysak Castle was a medieval castle. Nowadays there are only ruins left underground. Be aware that you will not be able to see the castle. The town Kysak is trying to preserve cultural heritage. The goal of the camp will be to explore the foundations of the castle tower, which are located below the surface. The work will be part of the archeological research. The volunteers will also be involved in renovation work, cleaning the area, transport of the material (like sand, rocks, and water). The volunteers will learn about the history of the castles in Eastern Slovakia. In case, there will be a cultural event, the volunteer will help with its organization. No building and archeological experience are needed. The working hours will be from Monday to Friday, approximately 8:30 – 15:00, including a lunch break. By participating to this project, you contribute to protecting the local cultural heritage (UN SDG 11).
🏠 Accommodation on site
The volunteers will stay in the town Kysak in the eastern part of Slovakia. The volunteers will sleep in the local town house. There are 2 bedrooms with beds but a sleeping bag is required. Showers, toilet facilities and fully equipped kitchen are provided in the house. Volunteers divided in the kitchen teams will be in charge of preparing the food for breakfast and dinner, the groceries will be provided. The lunch will be provided by local partner. On request, vegetarian meals can be provided.
📍 About the location
Kysak is a small town and railway hub close to second biggest city in Slovakia -Kosice. There is a good train connection from Kysak to Kosice and Presov. There is possibility to visit castles Obisovce and Sokol. The village is surrounded by beautiful nature with many touristic routes and hiking opportunities.
⚠️ Requirements
Bring a sleeping bag, working clothes and gloves, warm clothes, raincoat, strong boots, swimming suit, insect repellent, flashlight and a smile on your lips :) You can also bring some games from your country.
ℹ️ Additional information
Study Part: The volunteers will prepare the "Feast of cultures" - an international food evening for the local community and will join the “volunteering footprint“ workshop. Our camps will follow the rules of Sustainability campaign. INEX Messenger will visit the workcamp.
Important: This project is supported by the program European Solidarity Corps (ESC) for young people between 18 and 30 years. It is open to all volunteers that fit the ESC criteria. Volunteers will receive a financial support for their travel, according to a maximum amount established in accordance with their travel distance and upon the presentation of original tickets; volunteers need to enrol in the PASS, the ESC Portal; then INEX Slovakia will organise their matching, on the online system, with the volunteering project.
Summary: Would you like to spend 2 weeks helping with the renovation of a castle in the middle of the beautiful nature in Slovakia? Get ready for the adventure, open your mind and develop yourself!