Basilicata Italy
Visit the Most Mountainous Region in South Italy

Basilicata Italy

Basilicata, Italy is a region in the southern part of the Italian peninsula and is also known as Lucania which is its ancient name. The region borders with Campania on the west side and Puglia or Apulia on the north; Calabria is situated at its southern border. While visiting Italy - Basilicata region specifically, one can really enjoy its beautiful 18 mile coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea and another, even longer one on the Gulf of Taranto. This region is fondly called "the instep” of Italy for its location near the boot heal. Basilicata Italy is made up of two provinces: Matera and Potenza and in 2017 - the region had a population of 570,365.

BASILICATA WEATHER

Province Basilicata has a varied geography and climate with mountainous areas in the Apennines in contrast to the coastal areas. The weather in the mountainous regions is continental with winter snowfalls. On the contrary, the coasts of Basilicata Italy enjoy a more temperate Mediterranean climate, especially June - September when the temperatures are above 20's during the day. 

Popular Spots & More About Basilicata Italy

While in regione Basilicata (as the locals call it) - a stop at the city of Matera is a must. This commune is the capital of the province of Matera and its historical area of Sassi di Marta was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. This area is famous for its cave dwellings that have been around since the Paleolithic era, or sometimes called Old Stone Age - some 35,000 years ago. For all Mel Gibson fans out there, Matera happens to be one of the main filming locations for the Hollywood movie The Passion of the Christ.

Matera ItalyMatera
Maratea ItalyMaratea
Potenza ItalyPotenza

For the adventurous traveller, Basilicata Italy is abundant with places to enjoy the great outdoors and the Pollino National Park is definitely worth a visit. It is Italy’s largest national park at almost 1200 square miles. Here you can see the gorgeous Italian countryside and marvel at local wildlife in their natural habitat. Animals that can be observed here include deer, the golden eagle, the Egyptian vulture, the European otter, and the Italian wolf - just to name a few. While here, don't forget to visit the ancient caves and the burial sites that are sure to give you a glimpse into the ancient habitat of the locals many many years ago. Another thing not too miss here is the natural wonder and therapeutic effects of natural hot springs, a visit to Terme di Rapolla is definitely an experience your body will appreciate. 

Historical landmarks are abound in Italy Basilicata region. You can visit the ruins of Metaponto - an important archeological site with a Doric temple and an ancient Greek theatre. Moreover, the Archeological Park of Grumentum which is also known as Little Pompeii has a vast collection of ruins including an Amphitheatre, temples, Roman Baths and mosaics.

Basilicata Italia has much to do and see for every type of traveler and wondering mind. You won’t want to miss all of the the archeological sites, national parks and amazing historic towns that this region has to offer. Refer to the Italy train map for an overall glimpse of the country's railway system.

Basilicata Map & Train Tips

Below you'll find a map with train stations, popular Basilicata Italy attractions, lodging options, other transportation options and much more. When wanting to purchase a paper map from a local store, simply ask for "mappa Basilicata" or "Basilicata cartina".

Train travel in Basilicata, Italy is easy if you want to visit the main cities. Some cities that are off the beaten trail may be better accessed by car. There is a private rail line called Ferrovie Appulo Lucane which serves three provincial capitals: Bari, Potenza and Matera. This line operates everyday with the exception of Sundays and statutory holidays. every day except Sundays and holidays. In order to reach Matera, you can take a train to Bari on the main railway line; once in Bari - walk out of the main station and just around the corner you will find the smaller station - Ferrovie Appulo Lucane which is where you can purchase a ticked and take the train to Matera.

You can also reach the city of Potenza by train from such main Italy destinations as Rome, Milan, Naples and Venice. Refer to the Italy train map for an overall glimpse of the country's railway system.

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