Basilicata: Italy’s Forgotten Gem
Basilicata is Italy’s best-kept secret – a rugged, soulful region tucked into the “arch” of the Italian boot. Often overlooked by its famous neighbour, Puglia, Basilicata offers a raw, cinematic beauty that feels like stepping back in time.
Your dream Mediterranean holiday
If you’re looking for a holiday that escapes the tourist traps, Basilicata is your haven. The landscape is a dramatic mix of ghost towns, golden hills and two small but stunning coastlines.
Imagine waking up in one of the luxury villas on the cliffs of Maratea overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, or staying in a boutique holiday home carved directly into the ancient stone of Matera. Whether you’re looking for a secluded country house in the rolling countryside or an elegant villa by the sea, the region offers an authentic, laid-back Italian lifestyle.
A glimpse into history
Basilicata has a layered, complex past:
Ancient roots: Originally known as Lucania, it was inhabited by the Oenotri, Greeks and Romans.
The Matera phenomenon: The city of Matera is famous for its Sassi - ancient cave dwellings that have been inhabited for 9,000 years. Once considered the "shame of Italy" due to poverty in the 1950s, the city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of rebirth.
Magna Graecia: The coastal areas, especially Metaponto, contain the ruins of great Greek temples where Pythagoras once taught.
The flavours of the country
The cuisine here is cucina povera (peasant cuisine) at its best - simple, spicy and incredibly flavourful.
Peperoni Cruschi: The region's "red gold". These are sweet Senise peppers, dried and quickly fried until they are as crispy as potato chips.
Orecchiette alla Martinese: Often served with turnip greens or a rich lamb ragù.
Pane di Matera: A conical sourdough bread with a thick crust and airy center, protected by PGI status.
Lucanica sausage: A traditional pork sausage seasoned with fennel seeds and chilies.
Nature and outdoor activities
Basilicata is a playground for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike:
Pollino National Park: Italy's largest national park, perfect for hiking among ancient Bosnian pines or white water rafting on the Lao River.
Basilicata Dolomites: Rugged sandstone peaks that host the Volo dell'Angelo (Angel's Flight) - a high-speed zipline connecting two mountain villages.
Maratea Coast: Known as the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea", it offers hidden sea caves and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling.
Vibrant Festivals
La Festa della Bruna (Matera): Held every 2nd July, the festival features a colourful parade of a papier-mâché float, traditionally destroyed by the crowd at the end to symbolise renewal.
Magia dello Spettacolo (Campomaggiore): An open-air theatre performance set amidst the ruins of an "ancient town" destroyed by a landslide.
Marriage of the Trees (Accettura): A unique festival of pagan origin, where a giant oak and a holly tree "marry" to ensure the fertility of the land.