Rotonda
Rotonda is a small village in southern Basilicata perched on a hilltop with views toward Mount Pollino. Stone houses with narrow winding streets and simple architectural details define the settlement, with a central square serving as the gathering point for daily activity.
Rotonda was founded at a crossroads of ancient roads, possibly on the site of the ancient city of Nerulum. During the Middle Ages, it changed hands among several noble families, including the Scannasorece and Sanseverino dynasties, before becoming a modern settlement following Garibaldi's campaigns.
The village's name comes from its circular layout, designed so residents could easily meet and gather in a central space. Today, this same square remains the heart of community life, where locals and visitors experience traditional festivals, seasonal markets, and daily social rituals.
Access is best by car with parking available near the village square. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable visiting conditions, and the location provides an ideal base for exploring nearby mountains and forests within Pollino National Park.
Nearby stands the Vetusta Faggeta, an ancient beech forest with trees exceeding 500 years old, recognized by UNESCO for its natural value. An ancient pine tree called Italus, estimated over 1200 years old, makes this region one of Europe's most remarkable natural sites.
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