Basilicatas

Basilicata is a region in southern Italy. It borders Campania to the west, Apulia to the north and east, and Calabria to the southeast, with coastlines on the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the southeast. The regional capital is Potenza, and the most populous city is Matera, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings. The region is divided into two provinces: Potenza and Matera.

Geography and nature form a varied landscape that ranges from the Apennine mountains to coastal plains. The Pollino Massif in the north includes Pollino National Park, shared with Calabria, and features rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna. The Volcanic hills around Vulture in the northern part are notable for wine production, including varieties labeled under the Aglianico del Vulture designation.

History covers a long sequence from ancient times. The area was settled by the Lucani, an Italic people, and became part of Magna Graecia with Greek colonies such as Metapontum, Heraclea, and Siris. Under Roman rule it formed the province of Lucania et Bruttii. Through the Middle Ages it passed under Lombard, Norman, and Angevin influence, later becoming part of the Kingdom of Naples and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies before joining the Italian state in the 19th century.

Economy and culture center on agriculture, livestock, and small industry, with growing emphasis on tourism linked to natural parks and historical sites. The Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drew international attention when Matera was European Capital of Culture in 2019. The region maintains distinct dialects and culinary traditions, including wines from the Vulture area and regional agricultural products. The population is relatively small and has experienced ongoing out-migration.