Basilicata
Explore the Cities and Towns of Basilicata
Overview
Basilicata is a beautiful and diverse region in Southern Italy, known as the 'breadbasket' of the south considering that most of southern Italy's wheat and other grains are produced here. It is home to unique and sprawling landscapes where rolling hills covered with crops give way to some of Italy's most ancient and important cities like Matera, Melfi, Maratea and Melf.
Many of these towns and villages have recently been featured in major motion pictures. For example, films like the Passion of Christ, Wonderwoman and James Bond, were some of the most important who used this region's towns and cities as their backdrops, however there have been dozens of others. In fact, Rai (which is Italy's largest broadcast station) has their largest Italian office in Potenza, the regions capital city.
The name 'Basilicata' takes it name from the Latin "Basileus", meaning the 'land of kings', for it was here in this region where Federico II, known as the 'King of the Two Sicilies' which pre-dated what is now Italy and Sicily created his most important fortresses and numerous castles in towns like Melfi, Lagopesole, Venosa and others.
Traveling through this region is like taking a tour through human history, thought it is not only the incredible history that may encourage you to visit here. The incredible landscapes, lakes, monasteries and the coast of Maratea are remarkable natural areas to explore.
Catch a brief overview of some of the remarkable landscapes, cities and towns in this video here:
Each city, town and area, even within this small region is unique and tide to the traditions of the land which date back to eras Before Christ.
Each village in Basilicata, even now, in 2020 hangs on to its local culture, customs and traditions which are celebrated throughout the year in a number of unique celebrations 'sagra' or festivals which celebrate the harvesting of grapes for the incredible wines which are the end result, the mushrooms and 'tartufo' / truffles, the sweet red peppers, asperagus, grains which create the wonderful bread and pasta and many other local products.
If you let your imagination run wild while exploring the countryside of Basilicata, it is soon evident that this is a land where nature takes first priority as protector and provider; and where ancient customs and myths never die out. Basilicata is where the sacred mountains dominate the skyline in solemnity and grandeur and begin their trek toward the Italian Peninsula. Italy is, without question, realized to its fullest extent in Basilicata; “a land of endless wonders between earth, sky, stars and trees”.
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