Basilicata

Though not very well-known, Basilicata is without doubt a region with considerable tourist potential. The province offers a great variety of scenery on relatively small territory. The Ionian coast is characterized by a wide sandy shore, stretching from the Apulian to the Calabrian borders. All along the caost are small seaside resorts, like Lido di Metaponto, (with its archeological remains), Marina di Pisticci, Lido di Scanzano, Lido di Policoro; the Tyrrhenian coast has a distinct athmosphere: is a jagged rocky coastline behind which luxuriant mediterranean vegetation flourishes. Maratea, with its charming outlying hamlets, is one of the most beautiful resorts of the south Tyrrhenian Sea.

The mountain scenery is arid but fascinating as are the `Lucanian Dolomites'. The typical inland villages perched on the hills are worth a visit as well. Time seems to have passed them by; there ancestral traditions and life styles still exist, together with many noteworthy artistic buildings.

In the Province of Matera, lies Montescaglioso, with its imposing medieval Abbey of S. Angelo; Miglionico, dominated by a Castle of Norman origin; Irsina, with the fine crypt of the Monastery of S. Francesco (12th century) decorated with excellent frescoes; Tricarico, of medieval appearance, with many religious buildings; Pisticci, with its characteristic rows of white houses; Tursi, in a panoramic position over the Sinni River valley, and the nearby solitary church of S. Maria d'Anglona.

In the Province of Potenza, a visit must be paid to Rivello, with its stepped urban structure, dominating the Noce River valley; Lagonegro, lying in a depression at the foot of Mount Sirino; Castel Lagopesole, at the foot of the imposing mansion built by Frederick II; Rapolla, with S. Lucia Church of Norman origin; Melfi, an interesting little town dominated by the Norman castle; Venosa, with the famous Abbey of the Triniti ; Acerenza with its thirteenth-century cathedral.

Finally the archaeological remains of Eraclea and Metaponto, on the Ionian coast are of great importyance. As are the ruins of the acropolis at Mount La Croccia (4th century BC.) near Oliveto Lucano.

by World66.com