Bernalda

Bernalda sits between the Bradano and Basento rivers at 126 meters elevation, offering views across the Valle del Basento valley. The town center features the Aragonese Castle and Chiesa Madre, with Piazza Cavour serving as the main gathering space.

Originally called Camarda, the town took its current name in 1470 when Bernardino de Barnaudo, secretary to the Aragonese King, renamed it and built the castle. This royal administrator's influence shaped the settlement's development from that point forward.

The town celebrates Saint Bernardino of Siena with festivals held twice yearly, featuring traditional music and regional dishes that reflect local identity.

The town is best explored on foot, with Piazza Cavour serving as the central starting point for reaching all main sites. The hilly terrain calls for comfortable shoes when walking through the older areas and taking in the surrounding landscape.

The Chiesa Madre was started in the 1530s and underwent multiple expansions through the 17th century, transforming from a simple single-nave chapel into a larger church. These gradual renovations reveal how the community's needs and resources grew over generations.

Location: province of Matera

Capital city: Bernalda

Elevation above the sea: 126 m

Shares border with: Montescaglioso, Pisticci, Ginosa

Website: https://comune.bernalda.matera.it/new

GPS coordinates: 40.41667,16.68333

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:00