Book your experience

“The journey is not about seeking new lands, but about having new eyes.” With this reflection by Marcel Proust, we begin our journey to discover Basilicata, a region which, despite often being overlooked by the most crowded tourist circuits, hides unexpected beauties and fascinating stories. From the evocative streets of Matera, a World Heritage Site, to the imposing Lucanian Dolomites, this corner of Italy is an invitation to explore, to be surprised and to rediscover the authentic meaning of “travelling”.

In this article, we will dive into four key aspects of this extraordinary land. First of all, we will explore the historicity and charm of the Sassi di Matera, a labyrinth of houses carved into the rock that tells of centuries of life and culture. Subsequently, we will venture into the Lucanian Dolomites, where nature reigns supreme and offers breathtaking views and enchanting paths for hiking lovers. We will not fail to take a look at the local culinary traditions, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of a territory that is still genuine and authentic. Finally, we will discuss the sustainable development opportunities that Basilicata offers today, a topic of great relevance in an era in which responsible tourism is increasingly at the center of global agendas.

At a time when the world is readapting after the pandemic, Basilicata emerges as an ideal destination for those seeking genuine experiences far from the frenzy of the most popular destinations. Get ready to discover a region which, with its hidden treasures, promises to enrich your baggage of emotions and discoveries. Let’s start this journey together, where every corner tells a story and every step is an invitation to wonder.

Matera: The magic of the Sassi and beyond

I still remember the moment when the Sassi of Matera revealed themselves before my eyes, at dusk, when the warm lights of the houses carved into the rock began to shine like stars in a night sky. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells stories of a thousand-year-old past through its cobbled streets and rock churches.

Matera is much more than its famous Sassi; it is a place where history is intertwined with daily life. Don’t forget to visit the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata, which houses works by local artists and offers a fascinating insight into Lucanian culture. For an experience that few know about, head towards the Murgia Timone Panoramic Point: from here, the view of the Sassi will leave you breathless, especially at sunset.

Culturally, Matera is a crossroads of traditions. Its origins date back 9,000 years, and its inhabitants have developed a resilient lifestyle, living in caves and adapting to a harsh environment.

For those who want sustainable tourism, I recommend exploring on foot or by bicycle, helping to preserve the local ecosystem. And if you happen to smell a strong smell of fresh bread, don’t hesitate to stop by a local bakery: Matera bread is a real delight.

Matera may have a reputation for being “the city of ghosts”, but anyone who sets foot there can attest that it is instead a place vibrant with life and authenticity. What do you think? Is it possible that such an ancient city can teach us something about the way we live today?

Excursions in the Lucanian Dolomites: Uncontaminated nature

Walking along the paths of the Lucane Dolomites, I found myself surrounded by an almost mystical silence, interrupted only by the rustling of the leaves. A local guide, with a contagious smile, told me that here, among the peaks that touch the sky and the deep valleys, a unique ecosystem is hidden, where biodiversity is protected and celebrated.

Practical information

The excursions are well signposted and suitable for all levels of experience. The Regional Park of the Lucanian Dolomites offers itineraries that vary from simple walks to challenging trekking. Don’t forget to visit the Pietrapertosa visitor center, where you will find maps and useful advice. For an authentic experience, I recommend you turn to local guides like those of Lucania Outdoor, who organize night treks to admire the stars.

An insider to know

A well-kept secret is the “Around the World” trail, a little-frequented route that offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as the Apennine wolf.

Cultural impact

The Lucanian Dolomites have been the protagonists of local stories and legends, influencing the culture of the area. The traditions linked to the mountains are also reflected in the gastronomy and popular festivals.

Sustainability

For responsible tourism, opt for excursions on foot or by bicycle, avoiding leaving waste and respecting the local flora and fauna.

Immersing yourself in the nature of this corner of Italy means embracing a timeless beauty, which invites you to reflect on how the mountain can be a refuge for the soul. Have you ever thought about how regenerating a walk in such a remote place can be?

Lucanian flavours: A unique gastronomic journey

I still remember the first bite in a scarcella during a village festival in Matera: the sweetness of the honey mixed with the rustic flavor of the dough transported me on a sensorial journey that gave life to my passion for Lucanian cuisine. Basilicata is a land of authentic flavors, where every dish tells a story.

Typical cuisine and local ingredients

Accompanying a plate of pasta alla Lucana with a good Aglianico wine is an unmissable experience. Local restaurants, such as Osteria dei Sassi, offer dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, often sourced from local farmers. For a true experience, don’t miss the opportunity to taste pepperoni cruschi, a fried delicacy that embodies the culinary tradition of the region.

Unconventional advice

A secret that few know is the truffle fair which is held in Valsinni every October, where it is possible to taste truffle-based dishes and participate in culinary workshops. A unique opportunity to enter the heart of Lucanian gastronomy.

Culture and history on your plate

Lucanian cuisine is influenced by its peasant history and community rituals, an aspect that is reflected in the convivial dishes that bring families together. In this context, sustainable tourism plays a key role: many restaurants adopt eco-friendly practices, using zero km products and minimizing waste.

Basilicata is not just a region to explore, but an authentic experience to savour. Who among you is ready to discover the flavors of this land?

The mysteries of the rock churches: History to discover

When I set foot in the small hamlet of San Fele, I was captured by the sight of ancient churches carved into the rock, clinging to sheer walls and surrounded by wild nature. The Church of Saint Mary of Constantinople, with its faded frescoes, tells stories of devotees seeking refuge from the frenzy of the outside world. Here, the silence is broken only by the singing of birds and the gentle rustling of the wind in the trees.

The rock churches of Basilicata, such as that of San Giovanni in Monterrone, are a hidden treasure, dating back to the Byzantine period. Visiting these places is not just a journey through time, but an immersion in a unique cultural heritage. For those who wish to delve deeper, the “Chiese Rupestri” Cultural Association offers guided tours that reveal the secrets of these architectural wonders.

A little-known tip: don’t forget to bring a torch! Many churches have underground passages that can only be explored with artificial light. Not only this it will enrich your experience, but will allow you to discover details that you would otherwise miss.

The impact of these churches on local life is profound, serving as a symbol of resilience and spirituality. With the growing interest in sustainable tourism, many local communities promote the conservation of these places, inviting visitors to respect the environment and history.

Finally, I recommend you attend one of the local religious festivals, where you can see how tradition is intertwined with modern life. These celebrations offer a unique opportunity to experience Lucanian culture in an authentic way. What story will lead you to discover the magic of rock churches?

Authentic Experiences: Live like a local

Walking through the streets of Matera, with its Sassi that seem to tell thousand-year-old stories, I came across a small artisan workshop. Here, an elderly craftsman, with expert hands, modeled the clay to create unique ceramics. He invited me to try, and so I spent an afternoon immersed in local tradition, discovering the value of community.

For those who want an authentic experience, attending a family dinner is an unmissable option. Several local families offer the opportunity to share a meal prepared with fresh ingredients and recipes passed down for generations. An excellent point of reference is the Matera in Tavola website, where it is possible to book these unique dinners.

A little-known tip: asking residents for stone tables, small wooden tables where elderly people gather to discuss, is a key to entering the heart of Lucanian culture. Here, you can hear stories of daily life and local traditions that you won’t find in tourist guides.

Basilicata is a region that thrives on stories and connections. The encounter with local realities not only enriches the traveler, but contributes to sustainable tourism, preserving traditions and culture. Imagine savoring a dish of wild chicory and Matera bread, while discussing local customs with those who live them every day.

In an increasingly globalized world, what does it mean for you to immerse yourself in the experience of a community?

Art and traditions: Lesser known festivals

I vividly remember the first time I attended the Festa della Madonna del Carmine in Viggiano, a small town nestled in the Lucanian Dolomites. The procession, which winds through the cobbled streets, is an overwhelming sensory experience: the scent of fresh flowers, traditional songs rising into the blue sky, and the contagious energy of the locals.

A dive into Lucanian culture

In Basilicata, festivals are not just events, but real rituals that tell stories of faith, resilience and community. In addition to the most famous celebrations, such as the Festa di San Rocco in Potenza, there are many lesser-known events, such as the Sagra della Tonna in Marsico Nuovo, dedicated to an ancient Lucanian card game. These events not only celebrate centuries-old traditions, but are also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily lives of the inhabitants.

An insider tip

An experience that few tourists know about is participating in the craft workshops held during the festivals. Here, you can learn to create ceramic objects or traditional textiles, under the guidance of local artisans.

A lasting impact

These events not only preserve cultural heritage, but also contribute to sustainable tourism, attracting visitors looking for authentic and respectful experiences of the territory.

Discovering Basilicata’s lesser-known festivals offers a unique opportunity to connect with the community, overcoming the myth that this region is just Matera. What local festival are you most curious about?

Sustainable tourism: Exploring without leaving a trace

During a recent trip to Basilicata, while walking the paths of the Lucanian Dolomites, I met a group of hikers engaged in a surprising activity: collecting waste along the way. This simple but significant gesture made me reflect on the importance of sustainable tourism, an approach that the region is increasingly embracing.

Responsible practices

Today, many local operators offer tours that emphasize sustainability, such as using eco-friendly transportation and promoting farm-to-table products. According to the Basilicata Tourism Board, 60% of excursions in natural parks now include practices to reduce environmental impact.

An insider tip

A little-known secret is the option to participate in sustainability workshops, where you can learn conservation techniques for local flora and fauna. This will allow you to combine the pleasure of discovery with responsibility towards the environment.

Cultural impact

Basilicata, with its history of interaction between man and nature, has always seen respect for the environment as a fundamental value. Local traditions, such as the collection of wild herbs, are a clear example of how we can live in harmony with the earth.

An experience not to be missed

Don’t miss the chance to take a night hike in the woods, where you can stargaze and listen to nature sing, all while learning about the importance of conservation.

Have you ever wondered how even a small gesture can help preserve the beauty of places like Basilicata?

The charm of the forgotten villages of Basilicata

Walking through the streets of Craco, an abandoned village that seems to have stopped in time, I perceived the echo of centuries-old stories. The stone houses, now covered in ivy and silence, tell of a community that once thrived. This place, steeped in mystery, is just one of the many forgotten villages that dot Basilicata, inviting visitors to discover their unique charm.

The hidden jewels

In addition to Craco, exploring Aliano and Grottole means immersing yourself in an authentic and intimate atmosphere. These towns, with their churches, squares and traditions, offer a glimpse of Lucanian rural life. According to the local Pro Loco, it is possible to participate in heritage recovery and valorization initiatives, a perfect way to connect with local culture.

An insider’s secret

A little-known tip is to visit the villages during the celebrations of the patronal festivals, when traditions come alive with music, dances and typical dishes. These cultural experiences offer total immersion in community life.

Sustainability and respect

Many of these villages offer opportunities for sustainable tourism, such as walking tours and craft workshops. It is essential to respect the environment and local traditions, helping to preserve the beauty of these places.

Discovering the forgotten villages of Basilicata is a journey that goes beyond simple tourism: it is an immersion in stories and traditions that are just waiting to be told. Which village will strike you the most?

Unconventional advice: Alternative itineraries to follow

Walking among the Sassi of Matera, I discovered a small alley, not far from the crowded tourist squares, where an old wooden door opens onto a hidden courtyard. Here, a local craftsman, with expert hands, works the ceramic, telling stories of tradition and passion. This is the essence of Basilicata: a place where every corner reveals unexpected surprises.

Alternative experiences

For those who wish to explore alternative itineraries, I recommend visiting Craco, an abandoned ghost village, which tells a story of resilience and abandonment. This destination is not just a film set, but a place that invites reflection on history and change. Be sure to inquire at your local tourist office for guided tours that respect the site’s conservation.

Cultural impact

Basilicata is a crossroads of cultures, and every corner has a story to tell, from the Sassi di Matera to the ancient peasant traditions. The discovery of less traveled places not only enriches the visitor experience, but also supports local communities, promoting sustainable tourism.

Myths to dispel

Contrary to popular belief, Basilicata is not just Matera. Many travelers overlook the beauty of its villages and countryside, thus missing the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rare authenticity.

If you feel like venturing into a unique experience, why not take part in a ceramic workshop in one of the local villages? Discovering the true flavor of Basilicata is a journey that goes beyond iconic images: it is an invitation to feel and live history.

Basilicata in cinema: Iconic places to visit

Imagine walking among the Sassi of Matera, breathing the air of a cinematic past that has enchanted directors and spectators. During one of my visits, I found myself on the set of No Time to Die, where the cobbled streets and cave architecture created a unique atmosphere, perfect for an action scene. Matera is not just a place to visit, it is a real natural stage that has inspired films such as The Passion of the Christ and Wonder Woman.

Visiting these iconic places is not just a visual experience; it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a historical narrative that has its roots in the centuries. Film productions have helped highlight the beauty and culture of this region, bringing an influx of tourism and investment.

If you want to discover a little-known corner, head towards the small village of Craco, a ghost town that was the backdrop for films such as The Passion of the Christ. Here, nature and history intertwine in an evocative silence.

Remember to respect the environment and local communities: follow sustainable tourism practices, avoiding leaving waste and helping to keep the beauty of the places you visit intact.

Basilicata, with its cinematic landscapes, invites you to reflect: what story do the places you visit tell you?