Basilicata is squeezed in between the regions Campania, Calabria and Apulia. Basilicata is among the less visited areas of Italy. Large parts of the region have mountains where there are far between the rural villages. In particular, the region has two very interesting cities to offer: Matera which, with its old neighbourhood, is a chapter by itself and Venosa which is a smaller but fascinating city with attractions and a nice atmosphere.

More of the cities of Basilicata are located more than 700 metres above sea level, and therefore, it may be quite chilly here, even in the summer evenings. In the winter, Basilicata is among the coolest regions in Italy.

Like its neighbouring regions, Basilicata has also been under the influence of different nationalities and empires. Therefore, you will have the possibility of experiencing historical marks from the different eras around the region.

The landscape of Basilicata

The landscape of Basilicata is very diverse, and there is great difference between a stay on e.g. the Ionic coast or the western coastal stretch which is very rocky. The northern part of Basilicata is of volcanic origin; the land here is more fertile, and there are several fortresses and castles from the Middle Ages in the area. 

Basilicata is a mountainous region and therefore there are possibilities of many wonderful experiences of nature. The forests in Basilicata are rich on flora and fauna, and Lakes Monticchio and Sirino are surrounded by beautiful natural areas. 

Large cities in Basilicata: Potenza and Melfi

Potenza, which is the capital of Basilicata, is at the same time the highest located regional capital in Italy and is about 820 metres above sea level. Even though Potenza has been subject to many different cultures and peoples, most of the historical centre has been ruined because of comprehensive earth-quakes. But fortunately, there are nevertheless many monuments in the city worth visiting.

Melfi is the most important city in the Vulture area and has a fantastic Norman castle.

Tourist attractions in Basilicata

The national park of Pollino is located in Calabria as well as in Basilicata and is a large, stunning area with impressive heights above 2200 metres. You will find large areas with forests, rivers and smaller lakes which make a trip to the area a beautiful experience.

In Potenza, you will find many monuments worth visiting, e.g. the Roman villa, the cathedral and the church San Francesco d’Assisi.

In Melfi, you can inspect a fantastic Norman castle. 

Matera is a picturesque city with a rich history, and the city has many interesting attractions from different eras. 

Sports activities in Basilicata

Basilicata is a popular ski paradise for ski enthusiasts. In the summer, you can hike in the beautiful nature and enjoy the wonderful landscape that Basilicata has to offer.

Gastronomic characteristics of Basilicata

Basilicata partly consists of an unspoiled and pure nature where the pigs and sheep are grazing on the meadows on the slopes. At the first impression, the Basilicata cuisine may seem a little rural, but the variation is actually big and each area changes the dishes in relation to the local ingredients. Most traditional dishes are based on meat and venison, but it is also possible to have fish, freshwater fish as well as fish from the sea. From the forests come the most wonderful forest fruits, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, redcurrants and blue berries.

In Basilicata, you will find a fantastic wine area called Monte Vulture where they produce excellent wines that have actually become cult in certain areas. The best vineyards in Basilicata are among others Cantine del Notaio, Elena Fucci, Le Querce and Paternoster.

The climate of Basilicata

The temperatures are a little lower in this region than in other regions and are peaking in July and August where they will reach about 25 degrees. In the winter, Basilicata is one of the coolest regions in Italy.

Some of the photos are kindly lent out from the Italian Tourist Office. Photographer: Fototeca ENIT.