Mistero Buffo - Circolo Arci Babilonia

Circolo Arci Babilonia is a non-profit social promotion organization, founded on May 31, 1985, and
located in Acireale, a city of approximately 50,000 inhabitants in the province of Catania. The
organization, which is part of the national Arci network, is primarily composed of young people aged
18 to 30 and is best known for managing the "Mistero Buffo" Youth/Cultural Center. This space,
created in 2000 as part of a youth initiative project within the Action 3 program, has become a local
cultural hub over the past few decades.
Arci Babilonia is actively involved in international networks promoting youth mobility and European
project development. In addition to youth exchanges, the organization also has experience in managing
ESC-30 projects (European Solidarity Corps), which provide young people with opportunities for
volunteering, training, and personal development. The association’s activities take place mainly in the
afternoon and evening, and are largely carried out by volunteers, with a clear division of responsibilities
ensuring long-term continuity and sustainability. Arci Babilonia also hosts national civil service
volunteers and European Solidarity Corps (ESC51) volunteers for 10-month periods. Additionally,
several professional artists and musicians collaborate with the organization, particularly in artistic
workshops.
ERASMUS+ Projects
Circolo Arci Babilonia collaborates with various international associations in developing social,
cultural, and work-related projects. One of the most recent is "Innovative Youth Work 2.0" (2021-
2023), a partnership between Vamos (Finland), JOHUD (Jordan), and Arci Babilonia, aimed at
improving the employability of young people at risk of social exclusion and fostering the exchange of
good practices between youth organizations.
Activities and Experience
In 2008, Arci Babilonia partnered with two local organizations, "Associazione Culturale Scarti" and
"Circolo Legambiente Sartorius Waltershausen," to expand services for young people participating in
the center’s daily activities. The management model of the "Mistero Buffo" center is based on
principles of co-management and self-financing, encouraging the active participation of young people.
The center is open to all cultural initiatives of value and welcomes anyone willing to invest their time
in sharing their passions and skills to enrich the local community.
Through non-formal education pathways, event organization, and the promotion of local and
international projects, the center offers young and older individuals a space for socialization, study
areas, a library, and a fully equipped rehearsal room. Activities include yoga, guitar, creative sewing,
decoupage, crochet, and photography and art exhibitions. The association's jam sessions are a highlight,
providing musicians with the opportunity to explore new genres and collaborate in a creative
environment.
Every year, Arci Babilonia also supports the international short film festival "Magma," organized by
the Associazione Culturale Scarti, helping to promote a particularly appreciated initiative within the