Grumento Nova

Grumento Nova is an Italian municipality located in the region of Basilicata, specifically in the province of Potenza. Its history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence indicating human presence as early as the Iron Age.

During the Roman period, the territory of Grumento Nova was crossed by important communication routes, including the Via Herculea, which connected Lucania to Apulia. Grumento Nova’s strategic importance grew further when the town became an important post and horse exchange station along the Via Appia Traiana, the main Roman artery connecting Rome with Brindisi.

Over the centuries, Grumento Nova underwent various dominations, including Byzantine, Lombard, Norman, Swabian and Angevin. During the medieval period, the country was involved in numerous conflicts between the different powers that vied for control of southern Italy.

One of the most significant events in Grumento Nova’s history was the construction of the Caracciolo Castle in the 14th century. This imposing castle, situated on a hill overlooking the village, was an important point of defense during the conflicts that characterized the era.

Over the following centuries, Grumento Nova retained its strategic importance, although it suffered various devastations from earthquakes that struck the region. During the 19th century, with the advent of Italian unification, Grumento Nova became part of the new Italian state.

Today, Grumento Nova is a quiet town that retains its historical and scenic charm. Its territory is characterized by rolling hills, cultivated fields and olive groves. The medieval castle is still visible and is one of the main tourist attractions in the area.

In addition, Grumento Nova is famous for its hot springs, which date back to Roman times and have been rediscovered and enhanced in recent decades. The spa offers a variety of spa treatments and is a popular destination for relaxation and wellness.

This is the story of Grumento Nova, an Italian municipality with a rich and fascinating past, which today presents itself as a peaceful and welcoming place for visitors.

Moliterno

Moliterno is a charming municipality located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. It is located in the province of Potenza, at the foot of the Alps Mountain massif, surrounded by a beautiful setting of unspoiled nature. Moliterno is known for its scenic beauty and its cultural and historical heritage.

One of Moliterno’s distinctive features is the presence of its imposing castle, which dominates the entire surrounding area. Moliterno Castle, dating back to the 13th century, is an important landmark for the municipality and a testimony to its medieval history. In addition to the castle, the historic center of Moliterno is full of ancient buildings, churches and monuments that narrate the events of the past.

The surrounding nature offers breathtaking scenery, with a variety of landscapes ranging from green valleys to majestic mountains. The area is ideal for lovers of outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking and scenic walks. In addition, Moliterno is nestled in the Basilicata region, famous for its picturesque villages and the Pollino National Park, a paradise for nature lovers.

Moliterno’s gastronomy is another of its main attractions. The municipality is known for its PDO pecorino cheese, a high-quality dairy product that is appreciated both nationally and internationally. Moliterno cheese is characterized by its intense flavor and soft texture, and is a must for lovers of typical Italian products.

Finally, Moliterno is also famous for its folk traditions and festivals. Every year, the municipality celebrates cultural and religious events that involve the local community and attract visitors from all over the country. Among the most important festivals is the “Feast of Our Lady of the Snow,” which is held in August and is a time of great devotion and celebration for the people of Moliterno.

In summary, Moliterno is a town rich in history, nature and culture, offering an authentic experience in the heart of Basilicata. If you are looking for a fascinating place to visit, Moliterno may be the perfect destination for you.

Marsico Nuovo

Marsico Nuovo is an ancient medieval village, known for its beauty and authenticity. Located on the southeastern slope of Mount Croccia, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains of Basilicata.

The history of Marsico Nuovo dates back to Roman times, when the area was inhabited by Lucanians. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by various cultures, including the Byzantines, the Lombards, and the Normans. This rich historical and cultural heritage is still visible in the streets and buildings of the historic center.

One of the main points of interest in Marsico Nuovo is the Castle, an imposing structure dating back to the 12th century, which dominates the town from above. The castle offers exceptional panoramic views of the valley below and also houses an interesting museum that tells the history of the area.

Marsico Nuovo is also famous for its charming alleys and squares, where you can stroll and breathe in the authentic atmosphere of a bygone era. The historic center is characterized by cobblestone streets, stone arches and well-preserved historic buildings.

In addition to architectural beauty, Marsico Nuovo also offers unspoiled nature and picturesque hikes. Nearby are numerous trails leading to breathtaking views, such as the Angel Cave and the Mercure Valley.

Local gastronomy is another major attraction of Marsico Nuovo. Here you can taste typical Lucanian dishes, such as homemade pasta, local meats and delicious cheeses. In addition, the area is renowned for the production of high-quality olive oil.

Marsico Nuovo is an ideal place for those who wish to immerse themselves in the history, culture and natural beauty of Basilicata. Its authenticity and charm are truly unique. So if you are looking for a destination off the beaten tourist track, I highly recommend visiting Marsico Nuovo and having an unforgettable experience.

Montemurro

Montemurro is a place rich in history, culture and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those who wish to immerse themselves in Italian tradition and authenticity.

One of the first things one notices upon arriving in Montemurro is its scenic location, nestled in the hills and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Its narrow alleys and cobblestone streets lead to charming squares, where ancient buildings and traditional architecture can be admired.

One of Montemurro’s main attractions is its medieval castle. This imposing building dates back to the 13th century and dominates the city from the top of a hill. The castle offers spectacular panoramic views of the valley below and is a fascinating place to immerse yourself in local history.

Montemurro’s gastronomy is another reason to visit this location. Here you can enjoy traditional Lucanian cuisine, which is famous for its tasty and wholesome dishes. Local products, such as olive oil, cheeses and cured meats, are of the highest quality and contribute to the authentic and flavorful cuisine.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find many opportunities in Montemurro to explore the surrounding nature. The region is rich in hiking trails leading to beautiful valleys, forests and waterways. You can go hiking or biking and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the landscape.

In addition, Montemurro is located in the vicinity of the Pollino National Park, a protected natural area that offers additional opportunities for adventure and discovery. Activities such as climbing, rafting and hiking can be enjoyed here, fully immersing oneself in the unspoiled nature.

Finally, Montemurro hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year, including the San Rocco Festival and the Chestnut Festival, which provide opportunities to learn about local traditions, music, and culture in the region.

In conclusion, Montemurro is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. With its fascinating history, unspoiled nature and authenticity, it offers a unique experience to all who decide to visit. So I invite you to take the time to explore this beautiful location and be won over by its beauty and the warm welcome of its inhabitants.

Welcome to Grumento Nova

The Agri Valley – Basilicata to be discovered

Val d’Agri is a valley located in this region and named after the Agri River that flows through it. The Agri Valley is known for its natural beauty and for being an area rich in energy resources, particularly oil.

The municipalities located in the Agri Valley are diverse and include:

  1. Viggiano: Located on the slopes of Mount Viggiano, it is the largest municipality in the valley and home to the Lucanian Apennine National Park.
  2. Grumento Nova: An ancient village situated on a hill, known for its medieval castle and the Grumentum Archaeological Park, an important Roman city.
  3. Marsico Nuovo: A picturesque town characterized by narrow medieval streets and a charming historic center. It is famous for producing high-quality olive oil.
  4. Moliterno: Located on the slopes of Mount Alps, it is known for Pecorino di Moliterno cheese, a traditional dairy product of the region.
  5. Sarconi: A municipality characterized by spectacular panoramic views of the valley. It is famous for its timber production and the tradition of the triumphal float, an ancient folkloric event.
  6. Montemurro: A charming village situated on a hill, known for its medieval castle and striking surrounding landscapes.

These are just some of the municipalities found in the Agri Valley. Each municipality has its own history, culture, and unique attractions to offer visitors.

Viggiano

Viggiano is a charming town located in the province of Potenza, surrounded by breathtaking nature and rich in history and culture.

Geographically, Viggiano is located on the northeastern slope of Mount Volturino, part of the Lucanian Apennines. This prime location offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below.

Viggiano is mainly known for its wealth of natural resources, particularly the presence of oil deposits. In fact, it is one of Italy’s main centers of hydrocarbon extraction. Its economy is mainly based on the oil industry, which has led to the country’s development over the years.

However, Viggiano is not only an industrial center. Its historic center offers a fascinating journey back in time, with narrow streets, traditional architecture and an authentic atmosphere. You can stroll through its cobblestone streets and discover its hidden treasures, such as ancient churches and historic buildings.

One of the most striking places in Viggiano is the Caracciolo Castle, an ancient fortress that dominates the town from above. Built in the 14th century, the castle has witnessed many historical events and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding region.

For nature lovers, Viggiano offers many opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The surroundings are full of trails leading to enchanting places, such as the Cave of Wonders, a limestone cave with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

We cannot forget the traditional cuisine of Viggiano. Local gastronomy is characterized by simple but tasty dishes, such as homemade pasta, roast lamb, and locally produced extra virgin olive oil. Tasting these authentic flavors is an experience not to be missed during a visit to Viggiano.

Finally, it is also important to mention the warm welcome of the residents of Viggiano, who will make you feel at home. The hospitality and friendliness of the locals help make your stay in Viggiano even more enjoyable.

In summary, Viggiano is a place that offers a fascinating combination of history, nature and culture. If you are looking for an authentic destination off the beaten tourist track, Viggiano is definitely worth considering. I invite you to visit this beautiful municipality in Basilicata and discover all that it has to offer.

Sarconi

Sarconi is located in the province of Potenza, at the foot of Mount Moon Alps, and covers an area of about 69 square kilometers. The surrounding area is dominated by a spectacular mountain range and lush vegetation offering breathtaking scenery.

Sarconi’s history dates back to Roman times, when the area was inhabited by the Lucanians, one of the ancient Italic peoples. During the Middle Ages, the town was ruled by several noble families, including the Sanseverino and Caracciolo families. This is reflected in the architecture of the historic center, which features numerous buildings and churches of great artistic interest.

One of the most fascinating places in Sarconi is the Caracciolo Castle, which dominates the town from its panoramic position. Built in the 12th century, the castle has witnessed significant historical events and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley.

Sarconi is also famous for its unspoiled nature and mountain landscapes. The area is rich in trails and hiking trails that allow people to explore the natural beauty of the area. Outdoor enthusiasts will find many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and climbing.

Sarconi’s culinary tradition is also highly valued. Typical dishes include local products such as pecorino cheese, homemade bread, olive oil, and porcini mushrooms. In addition, the area is renowned for the production of fine wines, including Aglianico del Vulture.

Sarconi is also an ideal starting point for visiting other attractions in Basilicata, such as the Pollino National Park, the Pertosa Caves, and the historic center of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In conclusion, Sarconi is a fascinating place that offers a unique combination of history, nature and culinary tradition. If you wish to discover the authentic beauty of southern Italy, Sarconi and the surrounding region are definitely worth considering as a destination to visit.