BASILICATA

There is much to see in Basilicata. Starting with the Sassi of Matera, an ancient complex of caves and dwellings carved into the rock, UNESCO heritage. In Melfi, the Federician Castle, which hosts the National Archaeological Museum. The Dolomiti Lucane, with the magnificent villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, which are an excellent destination for adventure and authenticity lovers. Craco, one of the Lucanian ghost towns, fascinates with its mysterious atmosphere. Maratea, with its imposing Christ the Redeemer, offers a mix of history, nature, and crystal-clear sea. The Vulture, a famous wine-producing area, is worth visiting for its wineries and landscapes. The Monticchio Lakes, green areas perfect for peaceful walks. The Val d’Agri, with Sasso di Castalda, the town of the Moon, and Sant’Angelo Le Fratte with its murals. Other places to discover in Basilicata include the village of Valsinni, famous for Isabella Morra’s castle, the Lucanian poet; the village of Marsicovetere, perched under Mount Volturino. The town of Tricarico, with its ancient village and the memory of Rocco Scotellaro, is another corner rich in history; here, an ancient carnival is celebrated. There are many things to see, from history, culture, and fascinating villages to discover.

• With its lush and unspoiled nature, Basilicata is the ideal destination to enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
• Walk through the history of an ancient land: from the excavations of Metaponto and Grumento to the numerous castles of Melfi, Venosa, Laurenzana, Brindisi di Montagna, Lagopesole, Lauria, and others.
• The Pollino and Lucanian Apennines National Parks, Val d’Agri, Lagonegrese with their peaks and valleys offer trails for hiking, walking, and biking in all seasons, as well as areas equipped for winter sports.
• The region is rich in adrenaline attractions, from the Angel Flight in the Dolomiti Lucane, to the Tibetan bridges of Castelsaraceno and Sasso di Castalda.
• Numerous historic villages and some mysterious abandoned towns can be visited.
• Particularly recommended are food and wine tours in the Vulture area, an important wine-producing area, and other parts of Basilicata, discovering the many local Lucanian products.

Lucanian cuisine is simple, genuine, and rich in traditional flavors, with local ingredients reflecting the culture and history of the region. Here are some of the many typical products:

• Aglianico del Vulture: A robust and complex red wine produced in the Vulture area, it is one of the most prestigious wines in Basilicata.
• Peperoni di Senise IGP: This dried pepper, with its characteristic elongated shape, is an IGP product. It is used in many dishes. Fried and eaten when it becomes crispy, “crusco,” it has become a gastronomic symbol of the region.
• Other IGP products include Red Eggplant of Rotonda, Sarconi beans, Canestrato cheese from Moliterno, Matera bread, Lucanica sausage from Picerno, Lucanian olive oil, and Altamura lentils, shared with the Puglia region.
• Local cured meats and cheeses.ura e la storia della regione. Ecco alcuni dei numerosi prodotti tipici:

Lucanian cuisine is simple, genuine, and rich in traditional flavors, with local ingredients reflecting the culture and history of the region. Here are some typical dishes that characterize the region:

• Peperoni cruschi: These have become the symbol of Basilicata at the table. Served as an appetizer or side dish, they are also used as a seasoning for a famous first course, “strascinati mollicati,” where the peppers are crumbled and the oil they were fried in serves as the pasta seasoning; toasted bread crumbs and often a sprinkle of cacioricotta complete the dish.
• Lagane and ceci: A rustic dish made of lagane, a traditional pasta similar to pappardelle, served with chickpeas.
• Rafanata: Horseradish gives its name to this pasta seasoned with grated horseradish and the typical frittata enriched with horseradish and, in some areas, with potatoes and pecorino or other ingredients.
• Bocconotto lucano: A typical dessert of Lucanian tradition, made with shortcrust pastry filled with cherry jam, chocolate, or hazelnuts. The filling varies in different areas of the region.
• Lamb or goat stew: A rustic and tasty dish, made with lamb or goat, classic of the peasant traditions.
• Legume soups: Among the various typical local recipes, Capriata Materana is perhaps the most famous.

Lucanian cuisine is a perfect balance of land and tradition, enhancing local products and recipes passed down through generations.

Basilicata is a land rich in traditions, rites, and events that encompass both religious and popular spheres. Celebrations strongly linked to culture, spirituality, and the history of the land, often mixing religious elements with folklore and ancient rites. Here are some of the most famous rites, celebrations, and events:

• Festa della Madonna della Bruna: This is one of the most famous and heartfelt religious events in Basilicata, celebrated on July 2nd in Matera. The festival honors the Madonna della Bruna, patron saint of the city. The highlight of the celebration is the procession, during which an allegorical cart (made of papier-mâché) is carried and then destroyed at the end of the procession to become the prize of the “assailants” (devotees).
• Anthropological carnivals: These are a fascinating aspect of Basilicata’s popular traditions, mixing folklore, rituality, and symbolism in events rooted in peasant culture and ancient beliefs. These carnivals are not just moments of celebration, but a true rite of passage and seasonal renewal, a way to exorcise dark forces and celebrate the vitality of the land and the community. Among the most famous are the carnivals of Tricarico, Satriano di Lucania, and Campomaggiore.
• Sfilata dei Turchi: In Potenza, on the eve of the festival for Saint Gerard, a historical reenactment called the “Parade of the Turks” takes place. There are various theories about the origin of this reenactment. We refer to it here to read the most accredited ones.
• Tree rites: Some communities, such as Rotonda, Accettura, and Terranova di Pollino, are linked to the symbolism of trees and the connection between man and nature, expressing respect for the land, life, and seasons. Large trees are “processioned” through the surroundings and the streets of the historic centers, as protagonists of heartfelt popular events.

All year long! It is always the right time to visit Basilicata.
There is no better time to discover the scenic beauty and traditions of Basilicata. In winter, the mountain areas offer opportunities for winter sports. Summer is perfect to enjoy the sea, and in the intermediate seasons, there are many suggestions to experience and places to visit.

For further information, visit Wikipedia