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Basilicata

Basilicata, Italy

Basilicata: Untouched Italy Awaits Tired of the tourist throngs? Crave authentic Italian experiences? Then Basilicata, nestled in the instep of Italy's boot, beckons. Here, ancient history whispers from every stone, dram…

#Southern Italy#Mediterranean climate#Mountains#Historic towns#Cuisine

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Basilicata.

Top Hotels in Basilicata

Top Flights to Basilicata

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Basilicata.

Tours

Exploration of Sassi di Matera

Discover the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, known as Sassi. These historic structures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a glimpse into ancient Italian life.

Visit the Castle of Melfi

Explore the medieval history at the Castle of Melfi, an important historical site offering amazing views and fascinating history.

Visit Metaponto Archaeological Park

Step back in time at the Metaponto Archaeological Park, home to ancient Greek ruins and sacred temples.

Explore the Ghost Town of Craco

Wander through the mysterious abandoned town of Craco, known for its eerie beauty and historical significance.

Explore the Town of Matera

Stroll through the ancient streets of Matera, visiting museums, galleries, and artisanal shops.

Shopping

Shopping in Via Pretoria, Potenza

Enjoy a shopping spree in the heart of Potenza, where you can find a variety of local and international brands.

Outdoor

Hiking in Pollino National Park

Experience the breath-taking landscapes of Pollino National Park with its rugged mountains and serene valleys, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Rafting in Lao River

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting in Lao River, set against the backdrop of scenic cliffs and lush landscapes.

Wine Tasting in the Vulture Region

Indulge in the exquisite tastes of Italian wines from the Vulture region, known for its volcanic soil vineyards.

Beach Day at Marina di Pisticci

Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Marina di Pisticci, offering sun, sea, and plenty of relaxation.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Basilicata.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Basilicata, Italy, is 0.5 million.

Languages

Italian, French, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Basilicata.

What people love

Basilicata, located in southern Italy, offers a unique and authentic travel experience with a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some pros of traveling to Basilicata:

Unspoiled Nature: Basilicata is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the rugged landscapes of the Lucanian Dolomites, the Pollino National Park, and the beautiful coastline along the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore pristine forests, mountains, and beaches.
Cultural Heritage: The region is rich in history and boasts a number of historical sites and charming towns to explore. Highlights include the ancient city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique cave dwellings, as well as historic towns such as Potenza and Melfi.
Gastronomy: Basilicata is a food lover's paradise, known for its delicious cuisine based on simple, high-quality ingredients. Local specialties include pasta dishes like orecchiette and cavatelli, as well as cured meats, cheeses, and wines. Don't miss the opportunity to taste traditional dishes like Lucanica sausage and peperoni cruschi.
Hospitality: Visitors to Basilicata can expect warm hospitality and a genuine welcome from the locals. The region is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Basilicata is still somewhat undiscovered by mass tourism, making it a great destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds and experience an authentic Italian experience. You can explore charming villages, interact with locals, and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

Overall, traveling to Basilicata offers a chance to discover a hidden gem in Italy, with its natural beauty, rich history, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. It's a great destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in a beautiful and culturally rich region.

Enjoy your trip to Basilicata!

What to know

Basilicata, located in southern Italy, is a region known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. While Basilicata has many positive aspects that make it a desirable destination for travelers, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Basilicata is less developed in terms of tourism infrastructure compared to other regions in Italy. This means that amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation options may be more limited, especially in rural areas.
Language Barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Basilicata as in more touristy areas of Italy. Travelers who do not speak Italian may encounter communication challenges, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Seasonal Variability: Basilicata's climate can be quite hot and dry, particularly during the summer months. Travelers who are sensitive to heat may find it uncomfortable to explore the region during this time.
Limited Accessibility: While Basilicata is well-connected by train and bus services, some more remote areas may be challenging to access without a car. Additionally, the region does not have its own major international airport, so travelers may need to fly into a nearby city such as Naples or Bari and then travel by road to reach Basilicata.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While Basilicata is home to unique sights such as the ancient city of Matera (a UNESCO World Heritage site), some travelers may find that the region offers fewer well-known tourist attractions compared to other parts of Italy.

Overall, while Basilicata offers a rich cultural experience and beautiful landscapes, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges related to infrastructure, language, climate, accessibility, and tourist attractions.

Basilicata, also known as Lucania, is a region in southern Italy that has a rich and diverse history dating back to ancient times.

Ancient History:

Prehistoric and Ancient Origins: The area now known as Basilicata was inhabited since the Paleolithic period. Archaeological findings reveal settlements from the Neolithic era. The first known inhabitants were the Oenotrians, an ancient Italic tribe.
Greek Colonization: In the 8th century BC, Greek settlers established colonies along the coast, including Metapontum and Heraclea. These colonies became part of Magna Graecia, the area of southern Italy heavily influenced by Greek culture.
The Lucanians: By the 5th century BC, the region was dominated by the Lucanians, an Italic tribe who gave the region its historical name, Lucania. They were known for their conflicts with Greek colonists and for their eventual involvement with Rome.

Roman Era:

Roman Conquest and Influence: Lucania came under Roman control in the 3rd century BC. The region was integrated into the Roman Republic after the Samnite Wars. Roman influence led to the construction of roads and the development of agriculture.

Medieval Period:

Byzantine and Lombard Rule: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Basilicata was contested by the Byzantines and Lombards. The Lombards eventually controlled much of the region, incorporating it into the Duchy of Benevento.
Norman Conquest: In the 11th century, the Normans conquered Basilicata. They introduced feudalism and built many castles throughout the region.

Renaissance and Modern Era:

Spanish and Bourbon Rule: After the Norman period, Basilicata became part of the Kingdom of Naples, under Spanish and later Bourbon control. The region suffered from poverty and feudal oppression, leading to periodic uprisings.
Unification of Italy: During the 19th century, Basilicata played a role in the Italian unification movement. The region became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.

20th Century to Present:

Economic Challenges: Basilicata has historically been one of Italy's poorer regions, with a largely agrarian economy. Significant emigration occurred in the early 20th century as residents sought better opportunities abroad.
Development and Tourism: In recent decades, efforts have been made to develop infrastructure and promote tourism. The city of Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings, the "Sassi," was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as a European Capital of Culture in 2019.

Significant Historical Figures:

Pythagoras: Though not originally from Basilicata, he established his school in Metapontum, where he spent the last years of his life.
Carlo Levi: An Italian writer and painter, Levi's famous book "Christ Stopped at Eboli" highlighted the poverty and social issues of Basilicata during the Fascist era.

Important Landmarks:

The Sassi of Matera: Ancient cave dwellings in Matera, inhabited since the Paleolithic period, are a striking example of a rock-cut settlement.
Metapontum Archaeological Park: The remains of this ancient Greek city include temples and other structures, reflecting the area's Greek heritage.
Pollino National Park: A vast natural reserve that offers stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, straddling the regions of Basilicata and Calabria.

Basilicata's history is marked by a blend of ancient cultures and influences, from the Greeks and Romans to the Normans and Spanish, each leaving a lasting impact on its culture and architecture.