Location of Basilicata
Basilicata, also known by its historic name, Lucania, is situated in the 'Mezzogiorno', an area in the south of Italy renowned for its stress-free lifestyle, guaranteed sunshine, deliciously fresh food and excellent wine.
Basilicata covers an area of 9,995 square kilometres but has a population of only 600,000 making it one of the least populated areas of Italy. Campania and Naples lie to the north west, Puglia to the north east and Calabria to the south.
Basilicata only has two provinces; Matera and Potenza. The capital of Basilicata is Potenza which is located in the northwest of the region.
Basilicata's Rich History
Basilicata's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human presence in the region dating as far back as the Paleolithic era. Throughout its history, Basilicata has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Normans. Each culture left its mark on the region, contributing to its unique identity.
One of the most notable historical sites in Basilicata is the ancient city of Matera, often referred to as the "City of Stones." Matera is renowned for its cave dwellings, which are believed to be among the first human settlements in Italy. These dwellings, known as "Sassi," are carved into the rocky hillsides and have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. Matera was made famous by Carlo Levi in his book 'Christ Stopped at Eboli'. In Levi's time, the people in Aliano lived in abject poverty, many suffering from a host of crippling diseases including malaria. But since then, a lot of money has been invested in the region. The environment is clean, the houses are all well appointed, the shops plentiful and well stocked, and the infrastructure superior to many other parts of Italy. Matera's Sassi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
Another significant historical site is the town of Venosa, birthplace of the Roman poet Horace. Visitors can explore well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Venosa Amphitheatre and the archaeological park, which provide insight into the region's Roman heritage.
Basilicata's Vibrant Culture
Basilicata's culture is a captivating blend of traditions, festivals, and cuisine that reflects the region's rich history and unique identity. The people of Basilicata are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
One of the most celebrated cultural events in Basilicata is the "Sagra del Peperone," a festival dedicated to the pepper, which takes place in the town of Senise. During this festival, visitors can savor a variety of dishes featuring the famous Senise chili pepper, known for its intense flavor and distinctive aroma.
The region is also known for its folk music and dance. Tarantella, a lively and rhythmic traditional dance, is frequently performed at local festivals and celebrations. It's a captivating display of local culture that showcases the vibrancy of Basilicata's traditions.
Basilicata's Breathtaking Landscapes
Basilicata's landscapes are a testament to nature's artistry, offering a diverse range of stunning vistas that captivate the senses. From dramatic coastlines to rugged mountains and lush forests, the region has it all.
The Pollino National Park, shared with the neighboring Calabria region, is Italy's largest national park and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its rugged terrain features deep valleys, steep cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna. Hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting abound, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The coast of Basilicata boasts picturesque seaside towns like Maratea, known as the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea." Maratea is a popular, upmarket holiday destination for many Italians with its coastline dotted with pristine beaches, hidden coves, and rugged cliffs, making it a paradise for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Description of Basilicata
The region is largely unspoilt and shepherds still stand at the roadside all day long, watching their flocks in the sunshine, while herds of goats and long-horned cattle roam idly down the country roads, sometimes only accompanied by dogs. It is an area where local culture and traditions have remained unchanged over centuries and where the people are intensely proud of their history and independence. It is easy to imagine that any change would be fiercely resisted.
Attractions of Basilicata
The Basilicata countryside is very rich in natural beauty, and is surrounded by three National Parks: The Cilento, the Pollino and the Sila.
These parks contain vast areas of unspoilt forest and spectacular views across the mountains where wolves, eagles and wild cats are plentiful. There are facilities for white water rafting, horse riding and trekking and a ski slope on Mount Sirino which is open during the winter months.
The region lies between two coasts, the Ionian side of the Basilicata coast is to the east, which is largely flat and uninteresting, and the Tyrrhenian side of the Basilicata coast is to the west, and is extremely beautiful even by Italian standards. It is here that the upmarket resort of Maratea attracts large numbers of wealthy Italian tourists in the summer. The whole area is full of restaurants and Agriturismos, offering delicious local food and wine at ridiculously low prices as well as a comfortable bed for the night.
Conclusion
Basilicata may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip to Italy, but it's a region that offers a unique and authentic experience. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Basilicata is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you're exploring the ancient caves of Matera, dancing to the rhythms of the tarantella, or basking in the beauty of its natural landscapes, Basilicata is a region that will leave you with lasting memories of Italy's lesser-known treasures. So, plan your visit and uncover the secrets of Basilicata for yourself.
