Aussies looking for an easy move to Europe should look no further than this unique opportunity being offered by a small town in Germany.
The town is getting creative in a bid to rejuvenate its dwindling population by offering two weeks of free accommodation as it grapples with depopulation some 35 years after reunification.
Situated on the border with Poland and about 122km southeast of Berlin, Eisenhüttenstadt is offering a 14-day trial stay for potential new residents, with successful applicants to be accommodated in a furnished flat from September 6 to 20, this year.
“The project is aimed at anyone interested in moving to Eisenhüttenstadt – such as commuters, those interested in returning to the town, skilled workers, or self-employed individuals seeking a change of scenery,” a statement by the council read.
During the trial period, participants will be treated to a variety of activities designed to showcase the town’s offerings.
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![Supplied Real Estate =?UTF-8?Q?Eisenh=C3=BCttenstadt=2E_Picture=3A_Getty_Images?=](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 1280 720"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
An aerial view of Eisenhüttenstadt. Picture: Getty Images
The town’s socialist-era architecture is a striking feature that draws visitors interested in its unique layout. Picture: Getty Images.
These include guided tours, factory visits, and outings, all aimed at providing a comprehensive experience of life in Eisenhüttenstadt.
The council is keen to encourage permanent relocation, with local businesses offering internships, job shadowing, and interview opportunities.
Founded in 1950, Eisenhüttenstadt was the first fully planned town under the socialist regime of former East Germany.
Originally named Stalinstadt after Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, it was renamed following the reunification of East and West Germany in 1989.
The town’s population has since halved from its peak of over 50,000 to around 24,000, according to local official Julia Basan.
Eisenhüttenstadt was initially designed for a population of 30,000. Photo: Getty Images
Historic image of the Berlin Wall. Picture: Hans-Joachim Resch
German soldier’s stand guard atop the Berlin Wall. Picture: Hans-Joachim Resch
Today, Eisenhüttenstadt boasts the largest integrated steelworks in eastern Germany, employing 2500 people and serving as a hub for metals processing.
The town’s socialist-era architecture, with many buildings listed as historical monuments, is a striking feature that draws visitors interested in its unique layout.
Eisenhüttenstadt isn’t the first European town to get creative in a bid to attract new residents.
Other cities in the former East Germany have launched similar schemes in the past to combat population decline, while in Penne in Italy, if offering foreign investors the opportunity to snag a home for one Euro ($1.72), thanks to the Italian government’s relaxed property laws.
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