Basilicata, Southern Italian region between Campania, Calabria and Puglia, Italy
Description
Basilicata is a southern Italian region stretching between the Apennine mountains and the Ionian coast, with a narrow strip along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The landscape shifts between rugged peaks, wooded hills and small plains scattered along river valleys.
History
The earliest inhabitants left traces in cave settlements before Greek colonists founded coastal cities in the 8th century BCE. The area later fell under Roman control, then Byzantine, Norman and Spanish rule before becoming part of unified Italy.
Culture
Visitors find a kitchen tradition built around durum wheat, peppers, lamb and locally made cheeses. The inhabitants still practice crafts like fabric weaving and pottery making, visible in small workshops across the region.
Practical
Visitors find two provinces with different landscapes: Potenza sits inland with access to mountain areas, while Matera is closer to the coast. Many places remain remote, so a car is useful for reaching smaller villages and secluded valleys.
Did you know?
The whole region has one of the lowest population densities in Italy, with many abandoned villages scattered across the hills. Some of these settlements have been rediscovered as photo backdrops or starting points for hikers, but remain mostly empty.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Italy).
Castel del Monte
67.9 km
Pollino National Park
69.5 km
Certosa di Padula
74.1 km
Cristo Redentore
87.2 km
Ponte Acquedotto
36.4 km
Metapontum
28.4 km
Italia Viaduct
77.5 km
Monte Pollino
71.1 km
Monte Vulture
88.5 km
Matera Cathedral
20.8 km
Alta Murgia National Park
55.6 km
Castello Normanno-Svevo
76.4 km
Castle of Melfi
90.5 km
Tavole Palatine
28.4 km
Pertosa Caves
88.5 km
Lucanian Dolomites
37.3 km
Romito Cave
81.6 km
Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
19.4 km
Altamura Cathedral
36.7 km
Pulo di Altamura
43.8 km
Castel of Lagopesole
73.2 km
Gole del Raganello
67.3 km
Cathedral of Bitonto
69.4 km
Sacro Monte di Viggiano
56.1 km
Cave churches in Matera
22.4 km
Abbey of the Santissima Trinità
77.1 km
Riserva naturale orientata "San Giuliano"
11.8 km
Ruvo Cathedral
68.7 km
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes