Venosa
I can tell you stories of distant eras; tales of poets and warriors, of ancient glory and secrets hidden among my stones.
I am a city with a thousand-year-old heart, the birthplace of the great Latin poet Horace. My origins go back to Roman times, when I was an important colony on the Appian Way, and even today, I preserve traces of my past greatness.
Horace, my illustrious son, was born here in 65 BC and grew up among these lands, drawing inspiration from their beauty to write immortal verses. His words still echo within my walls.
Walking through my streets, you can admire my imposing Aragonese Castle, the silent keeper of centuries of history. You can explore the archaeological area, where the remains of my ancient Roman colony blend with the grandeur of the Unfinished Abbey, a Norman abbey never completed, symbolizing interrupted ambitions. And then there’s my Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a symbol of devotion and art.
Come and lose yourself among my stones that exude history. Come and discover me, and I’ll give you my ancient soul.
Venosa
About Venosa
What to see?
- The Aragonese Castle
- The Roman archaeological area and the Abbey of the Holy Trinity (The Unfinished)
- The Cathedral of St. Andrew
- Horace’s house and his imposing statue
What to do?
- Strolling through the historic center
- Visit local museums
- Participate in cultural events and historical reenactments
- Tasting the typical gastronomy
What to see in the surrounding area?
- Melfi with its Norman castle
- Forenza, with its historic center enriched by splendid and original artistic installations by the local artist Mario Brienza
- Monticchio and its volcanic lakes
- Rionero in Vulture, famous for its Aglianico wine
Who was Orazio?
Quintus Orazio Flacco was born in Venosa in 65 BC and became one of the most famous poets of ancient Rome. He wrote immortal works such as the “Odes” and the “Satires”, celebrating nature, friendship and Epicurean philosophy. He was protected by Maecenas and a friend of the emperor Augustus. His philosophy of life, inspired by Epicureanism and Stoicism, is summed up in the famous motto
carpe diem , an invitation to seize the moment, live the moment, without anxiety for the future.
How to learn more about Venosa?
For further information, visit the Italian Wikipedia page on Venosa
Talk to me
I’m waiting to hear your feelings
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