Basilicata, also known by its ancient name Lucania, is a region nestled in the heart of Southern Italy, famous for its extraordinary geographical variety and striking landscape contrasts. It borders Puglia to the east, Calabria to the south, and Campania to the west, and is the only region to be bathed by two seas: the Ionian Sea to the southeast and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west.
The central backbone of the region is dominated by the Lucanian Apennines, a mountain range boasting imposing peaks, with altitudes exceeding 2,000 meters. These mountains are the heart of Lucanian biodiversity, characterized by dense forests and protected areas of inestimable naturalistic value, among which the vast Lucanian Apennine Val d’Agri Lagonegrese National Park stands out.
Moving towards the coast, the landscape changes radically. On the Ionian coast, Basilicata offers wide sandy beaches, caressed by clear waters and an intense light, typical of the Mediterranean. The Tyrrhenian coast, though shorter, is no less impressive: here lies the enchanting Gulf of Policastro, where the crystal-clear sea collides with sheer rocky cliffs, creating breathtaking views and picturesque villages overlooking the water.
Administratively, the region is structured around the two main provinces: Potenza (the capital) and Matera. Its rich historical heritage is revealed in its authentic villages, such as Melfi, Venosa, Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa. These historic centers, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, quiet squares, medieval castles, and Romanesque churches, offer a journey back in time.
Matera e il Patrimonio UNESCO
I invite you to visit the photo gallery of the city of Matera, a thousand-year-old city and one of the most shining symbols of Lucanian culture. Matera is famous throughout the world for its Sassi, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Its rock-cut dwellings and cave churches create a primordial and almost mystical landscape, a unique experience.
