Basilicata

Palazzo dell'Annunziata

Basilicata, also known as Lucania, is a region located in the southern part of Italy, bordered by Campania to the west, Apulia to the north and east, and Calabria to the south. It has a coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea to the southwest and the Ionian Sea to the southeast. The region is characterized by a largely mountainous and hilly landscape, dominated by the Apennine mountain range, which contributes to its relatively low population density and rural atmosphere. Basilicata's major cities include Potenza, the regional capital, and Matera, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings.

The history of Basilicata is rich and varied, dating back to prehistoric times with evidence of human settlement in the form of caves and rock carvings. The region was once part of Magna Graecia, an area extensively colonized by Greek settlers, leaving a lasting impact on local culture and architecture. Later, Basilicata became a Roman territory and subsequently passed through Byzantine, Norman, and Spanish rule, each era contributing to the cultural and architectural heritage seen today. Matera’s “Sassi” cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exemplify the prehistoric and medieval stages of the region's history. Historically, Basilicata was considered one of Italy’s poorer regions, largely due to its rugged terrain and isolation, although it has seen development and increased tourism in recent decades.

Basilicata’s traditional cuisine is a reflection of its rural and agrarian roots, relying heavily on simple, locally sourced ingredients. The region is famous for dishes such as “peperoni cruschi,” dried sweet peppers that are fried until crispy and used as a flavorful garnish. Other staples include pasta varieties like “strascinati” and “orecchiette,” often served with hearty meat or vegetable-based sauces. Lamb and pork are common proteins, prepared in rustic recipes that highlight robust herbs and olive oil from the region. Basilicata also produces excellent cheeses, such as Canestrato Lucano, and its bread, characterized by a dense, durable texture, plays a fundamental role in the local diet. Combined with robust wines like Aglianico del Vulture, the food of Basilicata offers a distinct and authentic taste of Southern Italy.