Grassano, Italian comune
Grassano is a small commune in the province of Matera, situated on a hill between the Basento river valley and surrounding countryside. The historic center features narrow streets lined with stone buildings from various periods, old churches including the Duomo dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, and several notable palaces that form the town's core.
Grassano originated in the 13th century as farmland belonging to Tricarico and was later given to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem. Official governance was granted to the knights in 1414, after which the town grew rapidly through the 1500s and 1600s under their patronage and protection.
The name Grassano comes from the Latin word for grass, referring to the green hills surrounding the area. Daily life centers on farming traditions and community festivals, especially the grape and wheat celebration each September, where locals gather to share food and music that reflect their heritage.
The town is built on hillsides, so exploring its narrow streets requires some walking stamina and sturdy footwear is recommended. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for visiting, with mild weather that makes it comfortable to explore the surroundings and nearby attractions.
The town is known for its nativity scenes, carefully crafted by local artists and recognized by UNESCO for their artistic value. These handmade depictions feature hundreds of small figures and intricate details that represent a living tradition of regional craftsmanship.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
