Venosa, Medieval commune in Basilicata, Italy
Venosa is a commune in the province of Potenza in Basilicata, sitting on a hill among vineyards and olive groves. The old center has narrow lanes leading to the Castello Aragonese, and Roman ruins lie just outside the town walls.
The Romans founded a colony here in 291 BC on the border between Apulia and Lucania. In medieval times, rule changed between Lombards, Normans and Aragonese, who reinforced the castle.
The name comes from Roman Venusia and the settlement still carries its Latin roots visibly in street names and inscriptions. Locals gather in Piazza Orazio, named after the poet born here, especially in the evening for walks.
The center is easy to explore on foot and the main sights sit close together. The archaeological park on the edge of town requires about half an hour on foot or a short drive.
The catacomb beneath the church of Santa Maria d'Agnano shows Jewish and Christian burials side by side, a rare overlap. Some chambers hold Hebrew inscriptions and menorah carvings that recall an early Jewish community.
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