Village of 40 residents offers free housing to avoid 'erasure'

To counter the threat of being 'wiped off the map' due to population decline, the village of Arenillas in Soria province is attracting families with free housing and guaranteed jobs.

The program's appeal was immediate; in less than a week, the village received 116 applications from across Spain. Rodrigo Gismera, President of the Arenillas Cultural Association, noted the diverse range of applicants. These included individuals weary of urban life, nearby residents seeking better opportunities, and those viewing it as a 'golden opportunity' to establish a home and career.

Soria is currently among the provinces most severely impacted by population decline, a persistent challenge across many regions known as "Empty Spain". Situated approximately two hours' drive from Madrid, Arenillas once flourished but now counts only 40 permanent residents. While the population can temporarily swell to 300 during summer due to returning expatriates for the Boina Fest festival in August, this vibrancy is short-lived.

For most of the year, Arenillas remains quiet, with many houses unoccupied. The village, spanning 30 square kilometers, lacks even basic amenities like shops or restaurants; the nearest school is 25 kilometers away. Its limited connection to the outside world comes from periodic mobile trucks delivering fresh bread to residents.

The town council of Arenillas village, Soria province, Spain. Photo: *Diario AS*

To revitalize the area, Arenillas authorities have implemented a welcoming policy to attract new residents. According to *Diario AS*, the village offers free housing and guaranteed jobs for families committed to long-term settlement. Over recent years, the local administration has renovated 7 houses, preparing them for new occupants. The program specifically prioritizes households with young children, aiming to ensure sustainable community development.

Specifically, new residents will be exempt from rent, only covering personal living expenses. The program also offers a long-term masonry position, responsible for maintaining public infrastructure. Gismera explained that this job addresses essential rural infrastructure needs while providing a stable income for newcomers.

Additionally, the authorities encourage families to manage the village bar, which functions as a community hub. "The bar is not merely a place for drinks; it is the 'soul' and a vital link connecting everyone," Gismera stated. While not mandatory, managing the bar is considered an effective way for new residents to integrate quickly and foster strong community ties.

For families with young children, the regional government of Castilla y Leon will cover all costs for school transportation to Berlanga de Duero, offering peace of mind to parents. Furthermore, the village has installed high-speed Internet to support remote workers.