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; In Vulture area there are
several intersting places like e.g. 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 Trinità; 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. |
