Basilicata, also known as Lucania, is a region in the south of Italy, bordering Campania, Apulia (Puglia), and Calabria. It is known as the instep of the high-heeled boot, and is one of the smaller regions in Italy, with a population of about six-hundred thousand people. Basilicata has an attractive, unspoiled landscape comprised of mountains, hills, lush forests, and sandy coastlines.
Basilicata’s three coastlines on the Adriatic, Ionian, and Tyrrhenian Seas lend to a perfect balance of a Mediterranean climate on the coast, and a warm continental climate inland. Basilicata is a lesser traveled region and so it is the perfect place to go for a vacationer any time of year.
In Basilicata, the raw natural landscape, sprinkled with ancient ruins of Roman and Byzantine times-past, is king. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, and experience a vacation amongst beautifully inspiring landscapes, Basilicata is the location for you.
Castelmezzano
TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Trekking, Cycling, and Mountain Biking: Basilicata is a region where its mountains are its crowning glory, so this is the perfect opportunity to explore them. Trek through the lush and mysterious forests, or take to the trails and bike your way up the mountain. Whatever level of activity you’re looking for, Basilicata will be sure to satisfy.
Canyoneering: Looking to test your exploring prowess? Basilicata is one of the best places if you’re looking to explore traverse canyons and wilderness.
Sailing, Canoeing, and Scuba Diving: Having three coastlines to choose from allows any vacationer to take their pick of the best nautical activities.
Grass Scooter and Devalkarting: If you’re looking for a completely unique experience, Basilicata has got you covered. Hop on a grass scooter, or devalkart, a go-kart for grass and ride through the foothills of the region.
Snow Tubing: Looking for some good old-fashioned nostalgic fun? The mountains in Basilicata have it all. Take to the slopes and hills this region has to offer and snow tube your way through its winter wonderland.
Maratea
PLACES TO VISIT
Matera: One of the two provinces in Basilicata, Matera has a very ancient heritage that is evident in its attractions. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Matera’s Paleolithic settlement, the Sassi is an impressive network of tunnels and homes that were initially built into the tuff-rock bed. Other natural sites to experience, include: the fortressed Romanesque Cathedral, one of the most fascinating aspects to the rock city, together with mostly intact Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso Hollows. If you’re interested in seeing the Sassi from an overall perspective, check out the Via Madonna delle Virtù, where you’ll find the Rione Sasso Barisano, the tourist attractions of which include a miniature reconstruction of the Sassi and the Museum of Peasant Society.
Potenza: The province of Potenza is the capital province in Basilicata, with its capital city Potenza, the city with the highest altitude in Italy. This province masterfully combines an large industrial sector with nature. While you’re here enjoy the many churches, including the 12th century Romanesque Church of San Michele Arcangelo, home to many important works of art: the Madonna del Carmine and the Madonna of the Rosary and the Fifteen Mysteries, and the 12th century Church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro (12th Century) displays a lovely marble bas-relief of the Madonna with Child and Angels. And then stop to have a commune with nature in the Lucanian Forest, the extensive National Park of Pollino, or the wildlife reserves of Lake Pantano di Pignola.
FOOD SPECIALITIES
Durum Wheat Pasta: One of the most important components of the regions dishes includes durum wheat pastas. These pastas are often homemade and therefore are very hearty additions to any dish.
Diavolicchio: The pepperoncino pepper, known by locals as, diavlicchio (little devil) is a hot pepper that is a true symbol of Basilicata cuisine. It is the perfect, and most often used, addition to any red sauce.
Cazmarr: Lamb is a very popular meat in Basilicata. Cazmarr is a favorite lamb meatloaf made with offal and cutturiddi, a sort of lamb stew.
Lucanica: Lucanica is a famous meat dish of the region. It is a versatile sausage made with lean pork meat that can be prepared many different ways.
Ciammotta: Ciammotta is a comfort food in the region. Made with fried potatoes, peppers, and eggplants with tomato sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Piatto d’Erbe alla Lucana: Piatto d’Erbe alla Lucana is similar to a vegetable stir-fry. The dish is made up of onions, eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, garlic, basil, and parsley cooked together and seasoned with olive oil.