My experience with "Empowering Territories" was truly wonderful and, ultimately, far more special than I had anticipated. Before going, I had seen photos of Munilla and La Rioja and was captivated by the natural scenery, the small traditional villages, and the region's atmosphere. Once there, however, I realized that the program was not merely a trip to a beautiful location, but an opportunity to experience a different way of life and connect more deeply with the local community. What I enjoyed most was the chance to experience the locals' daily lives, explore the area, and participate in activities rooted in local traditions. Through this experience, I gained a better understanding of the concept of "empowering territories"—specifically, how the people of a region can collaborate and leverage their area's unique characteristics to make it more vibrant and active. I particularly appreciated that Munilla was not presented simply as a tourist destination, but as a place with its own distinct history, people, and traditions. Participating in the activities and interacting with the local community made me feel as though we, too, were becoming part of that community, if only for a short while. At the same time, the program gave me the opportunity to meet people from different countries, collaborate with them, and share experiences and ideas. Through shared activities, conversations, outings, and the moments we spent together, beautiful friendships were formed, and I felt that we learned from one another. Overall, "Empowering Territories" left me with very positive memories, as it combined discovering a different culture with nature, local life, and collaboration. I would certainly love to have a similar experience again, because I realized how important it is to travel not just to see new places, but also to get to know people and truly participate in their lives.
Ioanna
My participation in "Empowering Territories" in Munilla, Spain, was a truly wonderful and unique experience. Through the various activities, we gained a better understanding of life in the Spanish countryside, discussed the challenges facing local communities, and met people from different countries. At the same time, we had the opportunity to explore Munilla and Logroño and create beautiful memories. It was an experience I will certainly remember!
Sotiris
This week in Munilla was much more than a youth exchange , it was a full experience. We started with team building, we set the group rules together, and already on the first day we talked openly about global inequalities. The hike to San Vicente showed me up close what rural depopulation really means, while my personal SWOT analysis and the country presentations about rural realities gave me a much bigger picture of the topic. The emotional maps, the visit to the natural springs, and the visit to a community working with circular economy and eco-gardening showed me real, practical examples of how a place can be empowered. At the same time, we also experienced the traditional festival of the village ,the chupinazo (water fight in the main square of village), the community lunch with local residents, the "pinchos" to Logrono, the costume party and we shared our own cultures during the intercultural evenings. Sharing this journey with people from Spain, France, Italy, Romania, Germany and Greece reminded me that even though our villages and stories are different, we're all facing the same questions and together, we can actually be the ones who help empower our own communities.
Ioanna
Our trip to picturesque Munilla, Spain, has come to an end, leaving us with unique memories, new friendships, and unforgettable moments from a place rich in tradition and natural beauty. We wandered through the village's traditional alleys, discovered stunning landscapes, enjoyed the local natural pools, and fully experienced the area's lively festivals—complete with music, dancing, and games. We were initiated into the secrets of Spanish cuisine by cooking giant paellas outdoors, had a blast at unique costume parties, and shared countless moments of laughter and good company. A huge thank you to everyone for this incredible Erasmus+ experience and the unique "pueblo vibe" that brought us together!
Isidoros
Participating in this Erasmus+ youth exchange project was an unforgettable experience filled with amazing memories, local culture, and great people. In Logroño, I really enjoyed diving into the vibrant atmosphere and tasting the delicious traditional pinchos along Calle Laurel. We also had the chance to explore the region's unique heritage through a scenic hike to the rehabilitated village of San Vicente and a visit to a fascinating dinosaur site. Staying in Munilla was especially magical because we got to experience all the traditional local festivities firsthand. From the excitement and energy of the chupinazo water celebration to sharing delicious community paella dinners, dancing in the streets with the lively charanga bands, and celebrating at the concerts every night. every single day was packed with authentic Spanish tradition, fun, and connection.
Giorgos
Our experience in Munilla was a week packed with action, exploration, and new connections. We wandered around local landmarks, swam in natural pools and rivers, and experienced the village's traditional festivals firsthand. At the same time, we cooked paellas outdoors as a group, savored local flavors, and had fun at costume parties. It was an impactful Erasmus+ trip that left us with wonderful memories and strong friendships.
Dimitris