The student and teacher mobility under the European Erasmus+ programme KA121-SCH (project number: 2023-1-EL01-KA121-SCH-000132601) was successfully implemented from March 30 to April 5, 2025, at Liceo Scientifico G. Berto in the city of Vibo Valentia. Located in the heart of Calabria, this region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient roots, having once been a significant part of Magna Graecia (Greater Greece).

Calabria, with its remarkable history and stunning natural beauty, offers a unique blend of ancient Greek heritage and vibrant Italian culture—making it an exceptional destination for exploration and educational enrichment.

Sixteen students from the 3rd grade of our school participated in the mobility, accompanied by English teachers Ms. Athina Gkarmpola and Ms. Athina Xyrafa, as well as French teacher Ms. Angeliki Georgakopoulou.

During the five-day mobility, students and teachers from the participating schools took part in a wide range of educational, cultural, and experiential activities, all conducted in English. The programme focused on cultural heritage and hands-on experiences, while also promoting European identity, mutual understanding, intercultural collaboration, and environmental awareness.

This mobility was closely linked to the eTwinning project "Heritage Pathfinders," which students had been working on throughout the school year. The project activities centered around cultural heritage and fostering intercultural cooperation among European peers.

Next, the students took part in hands-on activities in the school’s labs, where they had the opportunity to practice in areas such as Robotics, the Sciences, and Astronomy, thereby deepening their knowledge and enriching their experiences.

After the lab activities, the students took part in inclusive games and sports in the school gym, such as  seated volleyball for people with disabilities , seated football for people with visual impairments, and other fun activities designed to promote teamwork, respect for diversity, and active participation from everyone, regardless of ability.

On Monday afternoon, we enjoyed a guided tour of the town of Pizzo, during which we visited the historic Chiesetta di Piedigrotta—famous for its nearly 200 carved statues and the striking biblical reliefs that adorn its interior.

Afterwards, we strolled through the charming streets of Pizzo, sampling the traditional Tartufo ice cream—a delightful local treat combining chocolate and fruit—while taking in the town’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty. 

On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the students visited the town of Tropea, where they were hosted by the “P. Galluppi” Secondary Education Institute. There, they had the opportunity to sample traditional Calabrian dishes—prepared by the institute’s culinary students using authentic regional recipes—and to immerse themselves in the local gastronomy and culture.

Next, the Institute’s tourism students guided us through the town of Tropea, where we wandered its picturesque alleyways and visited the Cathedral—famous for its striking fresco of Christ embracing the Virgin Mary. We also admired the breathtaking views of the sea and of the island topped by the Church of Santa Maria dell’Isola, which rises majestically from the water as one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, our group set off for the historic town of Scilla, accompanied by students from Liceo Scientifico G. Berto. Once there, we wandered its picturesque streets, soaking up the traditional atmosphere and the spectacular views.

Next, we set off for Reggio Calabria, where we visited the National Archaeological Museum and admired the famous Riace Warriors statues—masterpieces of ancient Greek art. Afterwards, we explored the beautiful city, renowned for its views of Sicily and often called “the world’s most beautiful kilometre” for promenading, as its coastline enchants with its breathtaking scenery.

On Thursday, April 3, 2025, our students began their day with a guided tour of Vibo Valentia, expertly hosted by the pupils of Liceo Scientifico G. Berto. We then visited the “Vito Capialbi” National Archaeological Museum, where we explored remarkable finds that illuminate the area’s rich past. The morning concluded with a hands-on ceramics workshop: under the guidance of skilled artisans, our students crafted their own pottery pieces.

Next, the group headed back to Liceo Scientifico G. Berto, where they enjoyed a meal of traditional dishes prepared by the students. After lunch, everyone took part in dancing and a cultural exchange, further strengthening friendships and mutual understanding. The day concluded with a certificate-awarding ceremony and a farewell banquet—a touching moment for all, filled with hopes of meeting again in the future.

The Erasmus+ mobility experience left us with lasting memories and deep emotions. Through our activities and exchanges, we forged strong bonds of friendship and fostered mutual understanding among students from different countries. We eagerly await our next reunion and look forward to welcoming our Italian friends to Greece next school year, where we will continue sharing the knowledge, experiences, and values that unite Europe.

We didn't  know we were making memories , we were just having fun!!!!!