Irsina, Medieval hilltop town in Basilicata, Italy.
Description
Irsina is a commune located on a hilltop in the province of Matera, rising to about 550 meters above the surrounding landscape. The town is shaped by winding streets that connect various squares, forming the typical layout of a medieval settlement.
History
The settlement was originally known as Montepeloso until archaeological discoveries in the 19th century led to its renaming as Irsina. This change reflected the shift from an ancient name to one derived from inscriptions found in the local area.
Culture
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands at the heart of the town with religious artworks spanning multiple periods. These pieces reflect the faith and artistic traditions that shaped community life over the centuries.
Practical
The town is best explored on foot, as the narrow lanes and stairs make vehicle access impractical in many areas. Comfortable walking shoes are helpful due to the hillside terrain and the distances between different quarters.
Did you know?
Beneath the former San Francesco monastery lies a crypt that blends remains of a Norman fortification with medieval wall paintings. This underground chamber shows how earlier structures were incorporated into the later construction of the settlement.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (province of Matera).
Castello di Monteserico
13.6 kmBosco Difesa Grande
15.2 km
Irsina Cathedral
1.3 km
Palazzo Materi
13.6 kmChiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi
1.6 kmChiesa del Purgatorio
1.4 km
Museo civico Janora
1.5 km
Irsina Bottini
426 m
Madonna dello Juso
1.9 km
Sant'Antonio Abate
12.8 km
Fountain
918 mCastello di Altojanni
14 km
Peschiera fountain
1.8 km
Lavatoi
1.8 km
Convento di San Francesco
1.6 km
Abbatangelo chapel
14.1 kmCity hall
13.7 kmScavi archeologici di Botromagno
16 kmCastello di Montepeloso
1.3 kmCastello Commendale
13.5 kmChiesa della Santissima Pietà
1.5 km
Piazza Borgo Calle
11.3 kmChiesa del Santissimo Salvatore
1.4 kmSan Felice Roman villa
9.8 kmI Cinti di Grassano - Geosito Nazionale
13.4 kmAltojanni
14 kmLocanda Prisco - Carlo Levi Grassano
13.6 kmScenic viewpoint
1.3 kmDiscover 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