Brienza, Italian comune
Brienza is a small commune in the province of Potenza in the Basilicata region and sits on a hillside overlooking the surrounding countryside. The town features narrow winding streets lined with old stone houses, a main square with cafes and shops, and a castle on the town edge with thick stone walls.
Brienza was founded many centuries ago and was once part of the Kingdom of Naples while retaining much of its old character. The town's layout and architecture show traces of different periods from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, visible in its stone buildings and squares.
The name Brienza traces back to ancient settlement in this area. Today you can see locals living out their traditions in the narrow streets and on the main square, especially during festivals and religious celebrations that have been observed for centuries.
Getting to Brienza usually requires a car since public transportation is limited. Once you arrive, walking is the best way to explore the narrow streets and main square, as the winding roads and sharp corners invite you to move slowly and look around.
Local artisans still practice old techniques in pottery, woodworking, and textile making, showing the town's connection to traditional crafts. You can find these workshops scattered through the lanes where craftspeople quietly work and pass their skills to new generations.
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