
Our mission is to help animal rights, welfare and education flourish through true human values and connection with culture.
Why a refuge?
Sicily
Sicilian culture is a beautiful one comprised of many sources and influences. It is however, behind the times in some areas and animal welfare is one of them. Many people come visit Sicily for the beauty, the sea, or the food, but few know about the large stray animal problem here. According to Commission data, in Sicily in 2016 there were 75 thousand specimens of stray dogs. In 2018, there were 90,000. Three quarters of European stray dogs are concentrated in Sicily. In Palermo alone, every day there are 2 litters and 10 finds. Critical situations also exist in the other provinces and regions across the southern portion of Italy.
purpose
Who we are
Looking ahead
Sicilian Culture: Building for the future
Our ultimate goal is to promote and help develop cultural elements: Sicilian agriculture, agritourism, education, protection and care of farm animals, development of recreational activities and the production of renewable energy. Currently we are setting up the existing residential building for activities for the supply of typical Sicilian products and the rooms for overnight guest stays.
Looking forward, the facility will be brought into the modern era with the construction of 12 wooden bungalows with an eco-sustainable structure and photovoltaic roofing system. Future building and renovations will be done with a sustainable future in mind.
Typical regional Sicilian cuisine will be served in a restaurant area with the inclusion of D.O.C. , D.O.P. , and organic products of the area including some grown on the grounds, including: the Pachino tomato, the Avola almond, Modica chocolate, Marsala wine, etc.. Cultural educational services will be offered in the form of tastings and courses held by accredited chefs featuring the aforementioned ingredients.
The area and rifugio is one of great naturalistic interest and beauty where bikers, hikers, families or anyone of any age can discover Sicilian natural heritage taken to the next level and have a comfortable, educational, and relaxing stay.
The Team
Tecla Simi
Operations
Alessandro Romano
Cultivation