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115-461: Maratea is the only town of Basilicata on the Tyrrhenian Sea . It has approximately 32 kilometres (20 miles) of rocky coastline, with more than twenty beaches. One of the main characteristics of Maratea is the variety of its landscapes, varying from breath-taking sea views to wooded hillsides and majestic mountains which sweep down to the sea creating steep cliffs. The Grotta di Maratea, or

230-570: A boost to the rebirth of Craco, making it one of the most popular ghost towns in the world. Other historical and distinctive villages are: Cave paintings were found in the Tuppo dei Sassi site (or Ranaldi shelter, after its discoverer Francesco Ranaldi, archaeologist and museum director), a prehistoric site in the Filiano territory, considered the oldest artistic trace in Basilicata. During

345-405: A boost to the rebirth of Craco, making it one of the most popular ghost towns in the world. Other historical and distinctive villages are: Cave paintings were found in the Tuppo dei Sassi site (or Ranaldi shelter, after its discoverer Francesco Ranaldi, archaeologist and museum director), a prehistoric site in the Filiano territory, considered the oldest artistic trace in Basilicata. During

460-473: A set for many national and international film productions. Matera is the most coveted film location, especially for biblical-themed movies, being often compared with the ancient Jerusalem . Other locations include the ghost town of Craco , Melfi and Maratea . The region hosted, among the others, the filming of Il Demonio (1963), The Gospel According to St. Matthew (1964), Christ Stopped at Eboli (1979), I'm Not Scared (2003), The Passion of

575-473: A set for many national and international film productions. Matera is the most coveted film location, especially for biblical-themed movies, being often compared with the ancient Jerusalem . Other locations include the ghost town of Craco , Melfi and Maratea . The region hosted, among the others, the filming of Il Demonio (1963), The Gospel According to St. Matthew (1964), Christ Stopped at Eboli (1979), I'm Not Scared (2003), The Passion of

690-569: A variety of archeological sites containing traces of Prehistoric, Greek, Roman and Jewish heritage: Basilicata hosts a series of religious structures. The Abbey of Santissima Trinità , Venosa, is one of the most representative, which includes marks of Roman, early Christian, Romanesque, Lombard and Norman origin. It was chosen by Robert Guiscard as the Hauteville family 's burial (and he himself will be later buried there too). Other relevant religious buildings are: Of many castles that existed in

805-511: A variety of archeological sites containing traces of Prehistoric, Greek, Roman and Jewish heritage: Basilicata hosts a series of religious structures. The Abbey of Santissima Trinità , Venosa, is one of the most representative, which includes marks of Roman, early Christian, Romanesque, Lombard and Norman origin. It was chosen by Robert Guiscard as the Hauteville family 's burial (and he himself will be later buried there too). Other relevant religious buildings are: Of many castles that existed in

920-503: Is a typical harp from Viggiano of average size, with a thin and light structure that makes it easier to carry; it was the distinctive instrument of street musicians from the Val d'Agri area in the past centuries, who wandered around the world and many of whom were admitted to symphony orchestras . Today, Viggiano is remembered as the "City of Harp and Music". Other traditional instruments are cupa cupa , zampogna and ciaramella . During

1035-455: Is a typical harp from Viggiano of average size, with a thin and light structure that makes it easier to carry; it was the distinctive instrument of street musicians from the Val d'Agri area in the past centuries, who wandered around the world and many of whom were admitted to symphony orchestras . Today, Viggiano is remembered as the "City of Harp and Music". Other traditional instruments are cupa cupa , zampogna and ciaramella . During

1150-710: Is also home to six coastal watchtowers, dating to the 16th-17th centuries. Maratea has two urban areas: one is located on the top of the mount San Biagio, called Castello ; the other one is called Borgo , situated on the north hillside of the same mountain. Plus, the comune has several little villages, spread across the region. The nearest airports are: Basilicata Basilicata ( UK : / b ə ˌ s ɪ l ɪ ˈ k ɑː t ə / , US : /- ˌ z ɪ l -/ ; Italian: [baziliˈkaːta] ), also known by its ancient name Lucania ( / l uː ˈ k eɪ n i ə / , US also / l uː ˈ k ɑː n j ə / , Italian: [luˈkaːnja] ),

1265-532: Is an administrative region in Southern Italy , bordering on Campania to the west, Apulia to the north and east, and Calabria to the south. It has two coastlines: a 30-km stretch on the Tyrrhenian Sea between Campania and Calabria, and a longer coastline along the Gulf of Taranto between Calabria and Apulia. The region can be thought of as the "arch" of the "boot" of Italy, with Calabria functioning as

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1380-553: Is bordered on the east by a large part of the Bradano river depression, which is traversed by numerous streams and declines to the southeastern coastal plains on the Ionian Sea . The region also has a short coastline to the southwest on the Tyrrhenian Sea side of the peninsula. Basilicata is the most mountainous region in the south of Italy , with 47% of its area of 9,992 km (3,858 sq mi) covered by mountains. Of

1495-441: Is bordered on the east by a large part of the Bradano river depression, which is traversed by numerous streams and declines to the southeastern coastal plains on the Ionian Sea . The region also has a short coastline to the southwest on the Tyrrhenian Sea side of the peninsula. Basilicata is the most mountainous region in the south of Italy , with 47% of its area of 9,992 km (3,858 sq mi) covered by mountains. Of

1610-437: Is compounded by the lack of forested land. In common with many another Mediterranean region, Basilicata was once rich in forests, but they were largely felled and made barren during the time of Roman rule. The variable climate is influenced by three coastlines ( Adriatic , Ionian and Tyrrhenian) and the complexity of the region's physical features. In general, the climate is continental in the mountains and Mediterranean along

1725-437: Is compounded by the lack of forested land. In common with many another Mediterranean region, Basilicata was once rich in forests, but they were largely felled and made barren during the time of Roman rule. The variable climate is influenced by three coastlines ( Adriatic , Ionian and Tyrrhenian) and the complexity of the region's physical features. In general, the climate is continental in the mountains and Mediterranean along

1840-733: Is mountainous and hilly with poor transportation routes that hinders harvesting. Most oils are sold unbranded and only 3% is exported. The main olive cultivars are Ogliarola del Vulture, Ogliarola del Bradano, Majatica di Ferrandina and Farasana with only Ogliarola del Vulture having the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Other varieties are the Arnasca, Ascolana, Augellina, Cellina, Frantoio , Leccino , Majatica, Nostrale, Ogliarola (Ogliarola Barese), Palmarola or Fasolina, Rapolese di Lavello, and Sargano (Sargano di Fermo and Sargano di San Benedetto). Among industrial activities,

1955-606: Is mountainous and hilly with poor transportation routes that hinders harvesting. Most oils are sold unbranded and only 3% is exported. The main olive cultivars are Ogliarola del Vulture, Ogliarola del Bradano, Majatica di Ferrandina and Farasana with only Ogliarola del Vulture having the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Other varieties are the Arnasca, Ascolana, Augellina, Cellina, Frantoio , Leccino , Majatica, Nostrale, Ogliarola (Ogliarola Barese), Palmarola or Fasolina, Rapolese di Lavello, and Sargano (Sargano di Fermo and Sargano di San Benedetto). Among industrial activities,

2070-401: Is not a great difference between the population densities of the provinces of Matera and Potenza. Religion, particularly Roman Catholicism still maintains a solid role in the culture and everyday lives of people in Basilicata. Italian National Statistical Institute (ISTAT) in 2018 found that 24.9% of the population went weekly to church, synagogue, mosque, temple or other place of worship, with

2185-401: Is not a great difference between the population densities of the provinces of Matera and Potenza. Religion, particularly Roman Catholicism still maintains a solid role in the culture and everyday lives of people in Basilicata. Italian National Statistical Institute (ISTAT) in 2018 found that 24.9% of the population went weekly to church, synagogue, mosque, temple or other place of worship, with

2300-847: The Capetian House of Anjou . Since then, Basilicata began to lose importance and was marked by an irreversible socio-political decline. In 1485, Basilicata was the seat of plotters against King Ferdinand I of Naples , the so-called conspiracy of the Barons , which included the Sanseverino of Tricarico, the Caracciolo of Melfi , the Gesualdo of Caggiano , the Orsini Del Balzo of Altamura and Venosa and other anti-Aragonese families. Later, Charles V stripped most of

2415-492: The Capetian House of Anjou . Since then, Basilicata began to lose importance and was marked by an irreversible socio-political decline. In 1485, Basilicata was the seat of plotters against King Ferdinand I of Naples , the so-called conspiracy of the Barons , which included the Sanseverino of Tricarico, the Caracciolo of Melfi , the Gesualdo of Caggiano , the Orsini Del Balzo of Altamura and Venosa and other anti-Aragonese families. Later, Charles V stripped most of

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2530-505: The Castello killed the bandit leader and captured the remainder of the gang. In the 18th century Maratea entered a period of progress and prosperity; on April 12, 1734, the first hospital of Basilicata was opened in the town. Many of the so-called 44 churches were built during this period. When Napoleon Bonaparte proclaimed himself King of Naples , Maratea was one of the few cities which did not accept French supremacy. In August 1806

2645-1098: The Greek colonisation era, artists like the Pisticci Painter and the Amykos Painter operated in the area of Metaponto around the 5th century BC. Metaponto is one of the largest and earliest Greek centres of vase painting in Italy; the Lucanian vase painting began around 430 BC, with the works of the Pisticci Painter. In the Armento area the Kritonios Crown and the Armento Rider were found, now exposed in Munich and London respectively. The Jewish catacombs of Venosa are cited among

2760-512: The Greek colonisation era, artists like the Pisticci Painter and the Amykos Painter operated in the area of Metaponto around the 5th century BC. Metaponto is one of the largest and earliest Greek centres of vase painting in Italy; the Lucanian vase painting began around 430 BC, with the works of the Pisticci Painter. In the Armento area the Kritonios Crown and the Armento Rider were found, now exposed in Munich and London respectively. The Jewish catacombs of Venosa are cited among

2875-702: The Hohenstaufen , Frederick II reorganized the administrative structure of his predecessors and the Justiciarate of Basilicata , whose borders coincided almost entirely with the actual region, was created. In Melfi, the Emperor promulgated the Liber Augustalis (commonly known as Constitutions of Melfi ), code of laws for the Kingdom of Sicily . The Swabians were ousted in the 13th century by

2990-407: The Hohenstaufen , Frederick II reorganized the administrative structure of his predecessors and the Justiciarate of Basilicata , whose borders coincided almost entirely with the actual region, was created. In Melfi, the Emperor promulgated the Liber Augustalis (commonly known as Constitutions of Melfi ), code of laws for the Kingdom of Sicily . The Swabians were ousted in the 13th century by

3105-554: The Kingdom of Italy on August 18, 1860, with the Potenza insurrection. It was during this period that the state confiscated and sold off vast tracts of Basilicata's territory formerly owned by the Catholic Church . As the new owners were a handful of wealthy aristocratic families, the average citizen did not see any immediate economic and social improvements after unification, and poverty continued unabated. This gave rise to

3220-435: The Kingdom of Italy on August 18, 1860, with the Potenza insurrection. It was during this period that the state confiscated and sold off vast tracts of Basilicata's territory formerly owned by the Catholic Church . As the new owners were a handful of wealthy aristocratic families, the average citizen did not see any immediate economic and social improvements after unification, and poverty continued unabated. This gave rise to

3335-561: The Middle Ages . During the Greek and Roman eras, Basilicata was known as Lucania . This was possibly derived from leukos (Greek: λευκός), meaning "white", from lykos (Greek: λύκος), meaning " wolf ", or from Latin lūcus , meaning " sacred wood ". More probably, the name Lucania derived, like the forename ( praenomen ) Lucius , from the Latin word Lux (gen. lucis ), meaning " light " (from PIE *leuk- , "brightness", also

3450-451: The Middle Ages . During the Greek and Roman eras, Basilicata was known as Lucania . This was possibly derived from leukos (Greek: λευκός), meaning "white", from lykos (Greek: λύκος), meaning " wolf ", or from Latin lūcus , meaning " sacred wood ". More probably, the name Lucania derived, like the forename ( praenomen ) Lucius , from the Latin word Lux (gen. lucis ), meaning " light " (from PIE *leuk- , "brightness", also

3565-524: The Ostrogoths between 536 and 552 during the apocalyptic Byzantine-Gothic war under the leadership of Byzantine generals Belisarius and Narses. The region, deeply Christianized since as early as the 5th century, became part of the Lombard Duchy of Benevento founded by the invading Lombards between 571 and 590. In the following centuries, Saracen raids led part of the population to move from

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3680-404: The Ostrogoths between 536 and 552 during the apocalyptic Byzantine-Gothic war under the leadership of Byzantine generals Belisarius and Narses. The region, deeply Christianized since as early as the 5th century, became part of the Lombard Duchy of Benevento founded by the invading Lombards between 571 and 590. In the following centuries, Saracen raids led part of the population to move from

3795-628: The United States or to Venezuela , and with their economic help Maratea was connected to the railway network in 1894, built its first aqueduct in 1902, had electrical connection from 1924, and tarred roads connected the Old Town with the outlying districts on the coast in 1930. Thanks to the help of Stefano Rivetti, an Italian industrialist, in the 1950s the economic situation of Maratea improved: factories (a wooden-mill and an industrial estate) and many hotels were opened. The statue of Christ

3910-688: The "predecessor of the Mariachi bands". Comedy duo Lyons and Yosco became popular for their million-selling ragtime piece "Spaghetti Rag". Modern pop artists such as Mango and Arisa achieved great success in the Italian music scene. Since the mid-1990s, Basilicata hosts the Agglutination Metal Festival , one of the most long-lived heavy metal events in Europe. Since the post–World War II era, Basilicata has become

4025-443: The "predecessor of the Mariachi bands". Comedy duo Lyons and Yosco became popular for their million-selling ragtime piece "Spaghetti Rag". Modern pop artists such as Mango and Arisa achieved great success in the Italian music scene. Since the mid-1990s, Basilicata hosts the Agglutination Metal Festival , one of the most long-lived heavy metal events in Europe. Since the post–World War II era, Basilicata has become

4140-533: The "toe" and Apulia the "heel". The region covers about 10,000 km (3,900 sq mi). In 2010, the population was slightly under 600,000. The regional capital is Potenza . The region comprises two provinces: Potenza and Matera . Its inhabitants are generally known as Lucanians ( Italian : lucani ), and to a lesser extent as basilicatesi or by other very rare terms. In ancient times part of its territory belonged to Magna Graecia , subject to coastal Greek colonies (including Sybaris ). Later

4255-513: The Cave of Wonders, was discovered in 1929 by men building the Highway 18 from Calabria . The centre of the town (called Maratea Borgo , meaning "Maratea's Old Town") is situated on the northern slopes of Mount San Biagio; other villages in the comune include Acquafredda, Cersuta, Fiumicello, Porto, Marina, Castrocucco (situated on the coast), Castello, Santa Caterina, Massa and Brefaro (situated on

4370-614: The Christ (2004), The Omen (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Wonder Woman (2017), No Time to Die (2021). Some actors and film directors are from Basilicata, most notably Robert G. Vignola , a prominent figure of the silent era , Pasquale Festa Campanile , associated with the commedia all'italiana genre, Ruggero Deodato , known for his horror films such as the controversial Cannibal Holocaust . Tanio Boccia , Rocco Papaleo , Antonio Gerardi , Antonio Petrocelli , Alessandra Di Sanzo are other notable personalities in

4485-561: The Christ (2004), The Omen (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Wonder Woman (2017), No Time to Die (2021). Some actors and film directors are from Basilicata, most notably Robert G. Vignola , a prominent figure of the silent era , Pasquale Festa Campanile , associated with the commedia all'italiana genre, Ruggero Deodato , known for his horror films such as the controversial Cannibal Holocaust . Tanio Boccia , Rocco Papaleo , Antonio Gerardi , Antonio Petrocelli , Alessandra Di Sanzo are other notable personalities in

4600-447: The Italian movie industry. Basilicata Basilicata ( UK : / b ə ˌ s ɪ l ɪ ˈ k ɑː t ə / , US : /- ˌ z ɪ l -/ ; Italian: [baziliˈkaːta] ), also known by its ancient name Lucania ( / l uː ˈ k eɪ n i ə / , US also / l uː ˈ k ɑː n j ə / , Italian: [luˈkaːnja] ), is an administrative region in Southern Italy , bordering on Campania to

4715-461: The Redeemer, or the Christ of Maratea, was built of pure Carrara marble in 1965 by Bruno Innocenti, a sculptor from Florence . It is located on the top of Monte San Biagio, right in front of the basilica. Maratea is called the town with 44 churches for the number of its churches and chapels. In the outlying districts are the rest of the churches which complete the list: Maratea's territory

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4830-799: The Valley in Matera, S. Antuono in Oppido Lucano , S. Lucia in Rapolla and S. Margherita in Melfi . The stone Nativity scene by Altobello Persio (1534) in the Matera Cathedral is an early example of Renaissance art in the region. Later Basilicata saw the imported and imitated art phenomenon with artists such as Giovanni Bellini and Cima da Conegliano , and Flemish painting by Dirck Hendricksz , Guglielmo Borremans , Aert Mijtens among

4945-460: The Valley in Matera, S. Antuono in Oppido Lucano , S. Lucia in Rapolla and S. Margherita in Melfi . The stone Nativity scene by Altobello Persio (1534) in the Matera Cathedral is an early example of Renaissance art in the region. Later Basilicata saw the imported and imitated art phenomenon with artists such as Giovanni Bellini and Cima da Conegliano , and Flemish painting by Dirck Hendricksz , Guglielmo Borremans , Aert Mijtens among

5060-653: The barons of their lands, replacing them with the Carafa , Revertera, Pignatelli and Colonna among others. After the formation of the Neapolitan Republic (1647) , Basilicata also rebelled, but the revolt was suppressed. In 1663 a new province was created in Basilicata with its capital in Matera . The region came under the dominion of the House of Bourbon in 1735. Basilicata autonomously declared its annexation to

5175-428: The barons of their lands, replacing them with the Carafa , Revertera, Pignatelli and Colonna among others. After the formation of the Neapolitan Republic (1647) , Basilicata also rebelled, but the revolt was suppressed. In 1663 a new province was created in Basilicata with its capital in Matera . The region came under the dominion of the House of Bourbon in 1735. Basilicata autonomously declared its annexation to

5290-454: The coast of the Ionian Sea , of Incoronata-San Teodoro. The first presence of Greek colonists, coming from the Greek islands and Anatolia , date from the late eighth century BC. There are virtually no traces of survival of the 11th–8th century BC archaeological sites of the settlements (aside from a necropolis at Castelluccio on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea ): this was perhaps caused by

5405-402: The coast of the Ionian Sea , of Incoronata-San Teodoro. The first presence of Greek colonists, coming from the Greek islands and Anatolia , date from the late eighth century BC. There are virtually no traces of survival of the 11th–8th century BC archaeological sites of the settlements (aside from a necropolis at Castelluccio on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea ): this was perhaps caused by

5520-543: The coasts. The first traces of human presence in Basilicata date to the late Paleolithic , with findings of Homo erectus . Late Cenozoic fossils, found at Venosa and other locations, include elephants, rhinoceros and species now extinct such as a saber-toothed cat of the genus Machairodus . Examples of rock art from the Mesolithic have been discovered near Filiano . From the fifth millennium, people stopped living in caves and built settlements of huts up to

5635-485: The coasts. The first traces of human presence in Basilicata date to the late Paleolithic , with findings of Homo erectus . Late Cenozoic fossils, found at Venosa and other locations, include elephants, rhinoceros and species now extinct such as a saber-toothed cat of the genus Machairodus . Examples of rock art from the Mesolithic have been discovered near Filiano . From the fifth millennium, people stopped living in caves and built settlements of huts up to

5750-530: The conquest of the whole Ionian coast. There were also indigenous Oenotrian foundations on the coast, which exploited the nearby presence of Greek settlements, such as Velia and Pyxous , for their maritime trades. The region became one of the centers of Magna Graecia , with the foundation along its coasts of many Greek city-states ( póleis ). The first contacts between the Lucanians and the Romans date from

5865-421: The conquest of the whole Ionian coast. There were also indigenous Oenotrian foundations on the coast, which exploited the nearby presence of Greek settlements, such as Velia and Pyxous , for their maritime trades. The region became one of the centers of Magna Graecia , with the foundation along its coasts of many Greek city-states ( póleis ). The first contacts between the Lucanians and the Romans date from

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5980-461: The demographic pattern of the region. In 1881, there were 539,258 inhabitants but by 1911 the population had decreased by 11% to 485,911, mainly as a result of emigration overseas. There was a slow increase in the population until World War II, after which there was a resurgence of emigration to other countries in Europe, which continued until 1971 and the start of another period of steady increase until 1993 (611,000 inhabitants). However, in recent years

6095-461: The demographic pattern of the region. In 1881, there were 539,258 inhabitants but by 1911 the population had decreased by 11% to 485,911, mainly as a result of emigration overseas. There was a slow increase in the population until World War II, after which there was a resurgence of emigration to other countries in Europe, which continued until 1971 and the start of another period of steady increase until 1993 (611,000 inhabitants). However, in recent years

6210-703: The emigration wave of the late 19th century, some composers gained recognition in North America : Leonardo De Lorenzo , flautist of several American philharmonic orchestras and professor at the Eastman School of Music , regarded as one of the most eminent flute pedagogues of the 1900s; Carlo Curti , who helped to popularize the mandolin in the United States and Mexico, and founder of the Orquestra Típica Mexicana , considered

6325-437: The emigration wave of the late 19th century, some composers gained recognition in North America : Leonardo De Lorenzo , flautist of several American philharmonic orchestras and professor at the Eastman School of Music , regarded as one of the most eminent flute pedagogues of the 1900s; Carlo Curti , who helped to popularize the mandolin in the United States and Mexico, and founder of the Orquestra Típica Mexicana , considered

6440-493: The first futurist painter in America. During his exile under the fascist regime , Carlo Levi , a painting passionate, left many works, today exposed in Matera. Although Basilicata hosted classical composers such as Carlo Gesualdo and Egidio Romualdo Duni , the region is primarily identified in popular music, which reflects the humble living conditions of its inhabitants. The arpa viggianese (commonly known as arpicedda )

6555-438: The first futurist painter in America. During his exile under the fascist regime , Carlo Levi , a painting passionate, left many works, today exposed in Matera. Although Basilicata hosted classical composers such as Carlo Gesualdo and Egidio Romualdo Duni , the region is primarily identified in popular music, which reflects the humble living conditions of its inhabitants. The arpa viggianese (commonly known as arpicedda )

6670-658: The first settlements in the Maratea region date back to the Paleolithic era. In the 15th–14th century BC a village grew up on top of the little headland called La Timpa . This was a small trading center, and its existence is documented until the 2nd century BC, when the Romans conquered Lucania . During the Roman era, the region continued to be a trade center: on the seabed near Santo Janni island dozens of ancient anchors have been found, and these are now on display in

6785-557: The increasing presence of Greek colonies, which changed the balance of the trades. In ancient historical times, the region was originally known as Lucania , named for the Lucani , an Oscan-speaking population from central Italy . Starting from the late eighth century BC, the Greeks established a settlement first at Siris , founded by fugitives from Colophon . Then with the foundation of Metaponto from Achaean colonists, they started

6900-452: The increasing presence of Greek colonies, which changed the balance of the trades. In ancient historical times, the region was originally known as Lucania , named for the Lucani , an Oscan-speaking population from central Italy . Starting from the late eighth century BC, the Greeks established a settlement first at Siris , founded by fugitives from Colophon . Then with the foundation of Metaponto from Achaean colonists, they started

7015-595: The latter half of the fourth century BC. After the conquest of Taranto in 272, Roman rule was extended to the whole region: the Appian Way reached Brindisi and the colonies of Potentia (modern Potenza ) and Grumentum were founded. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476, Basilicata fell to Germanic rule, which ended in the mid-6th century when the Byzantines reconquered it from

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7130-408: The latter half of the fourth century BC. After the conquest of Taranto in 272, Roman rule was extended to the whole region: the Appian Way reached Brindisi and the colonies of Potentia (modern Potenza ) and Grumentum were founded. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476, Basilicata fell to Germanic rule, which ended in the mid-6th century when the Byzantines reconquered it from

7245-684: The local museum. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire , southern Italy became part of the Byzantine Empire , starting from the Gothic Wars (6th century) . From the 7th century, the Tyrrhenian Sea came under the control of the Saracens , (Sicily became a Muslim emirate in the 9th century), who sacked numerous towns. So, for safety reasons, the local inhabitants moved to the high ground of Mount San Biagio , where they built

7360-959: The manufacturing sector contributes to the gross value added of the secondary sector with 64% of the total, while the building sector contributes 24%. Within the services sector, the main activities in terms of gross value added are business activities, distributive trade, education and public administration. In the last few years, new productive sectors have developed: manufacturing, automotive, and especially oil extraction . In 2009, Eni employed 230 people in this area (of whom over 50% were from Basilicata), and about 1,800 were employed in activities directly generated by Eni's operations, distributed in 80 companies of which over 50% were from Basilicata. The region produced about 100,000 bbl/d (16,000 m /d), meeting 11 percent of Italy's domestic oil demand. FIAT plant in Melfi has 7,200 employees and manufactured 229,848 Jeep Renegade , Jeep Compass and Fiat 500X in 2020. The Gross domestic product (GDP) of

7475-959: The manufacturing sector contributes to the gross value added of the secondary sector with 64% of the total, while the building sector contributes 24%. Within the services sector, the main activities in terms of gross value added are business activities, distributive trade, education and public administration. In the last few years, new productive sectors have developed: manufacturing, automotive, and especially oil extraction . In 2009, Eni employed 230 people in this area (of whom over 50% were from Basilicata), and about 1,800 were employed in activities directly generated by Eni's operations, distributed in 80 companies of which over 50% were from Basilicata. The region produced about 100,000 bbl/d (16,000 m /d), meeting 11 percent of Italy's domestic oil demand. FIAT plant in Melfi has 7,200 employees and manufactured 229,848 Jeep Renegade , Jeep Compass and Fiat 500X in 2020. The Gross domestic product (GDP) of

7590-492: The most remote and least visited regions of Italy. However, tourism is slowly growing since the early 2000s. Matera , once dubbed "national disgrace" by prime minister Alcide De Gasperi who urged to take strict development measures due to its extreme poverty, is now Basilicata's main attraction and has gained fame worldwide for its historical center, the Sassi , designated in 1993 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . In 2019, Matera

7705-441: The most remote and least visited regions of Italy. However, tourism is slowly growing since the early 2000s. Matera , once dubbed "national disgrace" by prime minister Alcide De Gasperi who urged to take strict development measures due to its extreme poverty, is now Basilicata's main attraction and has gained fame worldwide for its historical center, the Sassi , designated in 1993 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . In 2019, Matera

7820-741: The most significant signs of the Jewish presence in southern Italy. Around the 7th century, basilian monks settled in Basilicata, leaving a high concentration of rupestrian churches (155 ascertained today), in Matera, Pollino and the Agri and Sinni Valleys. Frescoes from the Angevin period can be found in the Abbey of the Santissima Trinità of Venosa, the Rupestrian churches of S. Mary of

7935-406: The most significant signs of the Jewish presence in southern Italy. Around the 7th century, basilian monks settled in Basilicata, leaving a high concentration of rupestrian churches (155 ascertained today), in Matera, Pollino and the Agri and Sinni Valleys. Frescoes from the Angevin period can be found in the Abbey of the Santissima Trinità of Venosa, the Rupestrian churches of S. Mary of

8050-459: The nearby town of Lauria , whose citizens also refused to acknowledge Napoleon, was set on fire by general André Masséna . Alessandro Mandarini, mayor of Maratea and commander of its castle, believing that Maratea would be the next target, evacuated the inhabitants to Sicily . Since Mandarini had been promised relief from the English army, he remained, with only 1,000 men, to defend the castle and

8165-809: The other best preserved castles of the region are: Basilicata has many small and picturesque villages, nine of them have been selected by I Borghi più belli d'Italia (English: The most beautiful Villages of Italy ), a non-profit private association of small Italian towns of strong historical and artistic interest, that was founded on the initiative of the Tourism Council of the National Association of Italian Municipalities. However, they have to face depopulation problems, while others such as Craco and Campomaggiore saw their old sites abandoned due to natural disasters. Nonetheless, filmmakers, writers and musicians have contributed to give

8280-672: The other best preserved castles of the region are: Basilicata has many small and picturesque villages, nine of them have been selected by I Borghi più belli d'Italia (English: The most beautiful Villages of Italy ), a non-profit private association of small Italian towns of strong historical and artistic interest, that was founded on the initiative of the Tourism Council of the National Association of Italian Municipalities. However, they have to face depopulation problems, while others such as Craco and Campomaggiore saw their old sites abandoned due to natural disasters. Nonetheless, filmmakers, writers and musicians have contributed to give

8395-628: The others. Local painters such as Giovanni De Gregorio , Andrea Miglionico and Carlo Sellitto had a Neapolitan school background. An alleged portrait of Leonardo da Vinci , dating back to the 1500s, was discovered in 2008, today exhibited in the Museo delle Antiche genti di Lucania, Vaglio . Some artists from the 19th century include Vincenzo Marinelli , Giacomo Di Chirico and Michele Tedesco . Several contemporary artists gained fame outside Italy, among them are worth to mention Marino Di Teana , Eugenio Santoro and Joseph Stella , sometimes cited as

8510-576: The others. Local painters such as Giovanni De Gregorio , Andrea Miglionico and Carlo Sellitto had a Neapolitan school background. An alleged portrait of Leonardo da Vinci , dating back to the 1500s, was discovered in 2008, today exhibited in the Museo delle Antiche genti di Lucania, Vaglio . Some artists from the 19th century include Vincenzo Marinelli , Giacomo Di Chirico and Michele Tedesco . Several contemporary artists gained fame outside Italy, among them are worth to mention Marino Di Teana , Eugenio Santoro and Joseph Stella , sometimes cited as

8625-613: The overlooking hills). The principal vegetation comprises oaks , pines , rosemary , holm oaks , carob trees and wild fennel . Maratea has a small harbour, which can accommodate up to 200 boats. Maratea probably derives from the fennel plant, which is called Marathéa /Μαραθέα in Medieval Greek , Marathía in Italiot Greek (as well as Marathiá /Μαραθιά in Modern Greek). Based on archeological findings,

8740-546: The phenomenon of brigandage , which actually turned into a civil war in the form of a guerrilla fighting, whereby the Bourbon in exile and the Church encouraged the peasants to rise up against the Kingdom of Italy . This strong opposition movement continued for many years. The revolt in Basilicata was led by Carmine Crocco , who was the most important chief in the region and the most impressive band leader in southern Italy. It

8855-438: The phenomenon of brigandage , which actually turned into a civil war in the form of a guerrilla fighting, whereby the Bourbon in exile and the Church encouraged the peasants to rise up against the Kingdom of Italy . This strong opposition movement continued for many years. The revolt in Basilicata was led by Carmine Crocco , who was the most important chief in the region and the most impressive band leader in southern Italy. It

8970-572: The plain and coastal settlements to more protected centers located on hills. The towns of Tricarico and Tursi were under Muslim rule for a short period: later the "Saracen" population would be expelled. The region was conquered once more for Byzantium from the Saracens and the Lombards in the late 9th century, with the campaigns of Nikephoros Phokas the Elder and his successors, and became part of

9085-408: The plain and coastal settlements to more protected centers located on hills. The towns of Tricarico and Tursi were under Muslim rule for a short period: later the "Saracen" population would be expelled. The region was conquered once more for Byzantium from the Saracens and the Lombards in the late 9th century, with the campaigns of Nikephoros Phokas the Elder and his successors, and became part of

9200-399: The population has decreased as a result of a new wave of migration, both towards northern Italy and to other countries in Europe, and a reduction in the birth rate. As of 2024, the population is 533,636 inhabitants which is a 12.7% decrease since 1993. The population density is very low compared to that of Italy as a whole: 59.1 inhabitants per km compared to 200.4 nationwide in 2010. There

9315-399: The population has decreased as a result of a new wave of migration, both towards northern Italy and to other countries in Europe, and a reduction in the birth rate. As of 2024, the population is 533,636 inhabitants which is a 12.7% decrease since 1993. The population density is very low compared to that of Italy as a whole: 59.1 inhabitants per km compared to 200.4 nationwide in 2010. There

9430-424: The population was slightly under 600,000. The regional capital is Potenza . The region comprises two provinces: Potenza and Matera . Its inhabitants are generally known as Lucanians ( Italian : lucani ), and to a lesser extent as basilicatesi or by other very rare terms. In ancient times part of its territory belonged to Magna Graecia , subject to coastal Greek colonies (including Sybaris ). Later

9545-566: The region was 12.6 billion euros in 2018, accounting for 0.7% of Italy's economic output. GDP per capita adjusted for purchasing power was 22,200 euros or 74% of the EU27 average in the same year. The GDP per employee was 95% of the EU average. The unemployment rate stood at 8.6% in 2020, the lowest rate in South Italy . Difficult accessibility and lack of extended promotion make Basilicata one of

9660-408: The region was 12.6 billion euros in 2018, accounting for 0.7% of Italy's economic output. GDP per capita adjusted for purchasing power was 22,200 euros or 74% of the EU27 average in the same year. The GDP per employee was 95% of the EU average. The unemployment rate stood at 8.6% in 2020, the lowest rate in South Italy . Difficult accessibility and lack of extended promotion make Basilicata one of

9775-709: The region was conquered by the ancient Romans . It was then conquered by the Byzantines , and then by the Normans around the year 1000 with the Hauteville family . Their presence explains the persistence of the Gallo-Italic linguistic enclaves of Basilicata . The area was later dominated by the Aragonese and by the Spanish . Subsequently, it became part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies , before annexation to

9890-426: The region was conquered by the ancient Romans . It was then conquered by the Byzantines , and then by the Normans around the year 1000 with the Hauteville family . Their presence explains the persistence of the Gallo-Italic linguistic enclaves of Basilicata . The area was later dominated by the Aragonese and by the Spanish . Subsequently, it became part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies , before annexation to

10005-585: The region, mostly isolated towers and ruins have survived. The Melfi castle is perhaps the most iconic, where important events from the Middle Age took place, such as the five councils between the Normans and the Catholic Church and the constitutions of Melfi promulgated by Frederick II. The Malconsiglio castle, Miglionico , hosted the conspiracy of the Barons against Ferrante of Aragon . Among

10120-406: The region, mostly isolated towers and ruins have survived. The Melfi castle is perhaps the most iconic, where important events from the Middle Age took place, such as the five councils between the Normans and the Catholic Church and the constitutions of Melfi promulgated by Frederick II. The Malconsiglio castle, Miglionico , hosted the conspiracy of the Barons against Ferrante of Aragon . Among

10235-519: The remaining area, 45% is hilly, and 8% is made up of plains. Notable mountains and ranges include the Pollino massif, the Dolomiti lucane , Monte Vulture , Monte Alpi , Monte Carmine , Monti Li Foj and Toppa Pizzuta . Geological features of the region include the volcanic formations of Monte Vulture , and the seismic faults in the Melfi and Potenza areas in the north, and around Pollino in

10350-410: The remaining area, 45% is hilly, and 8% is made up of plains. Notable mountains and ranges include the Pollino massif, the Dolomiti lucane , Monte Vulture , Monte Alpi , Monte Carmine , Monti Li Foj and Toppa Pizzuta . Geological features of the region include the volcanic formations of Monte Vulture , and the seismic faults in the Melfi and Potenza areas in the north, and around Pollino in

10465-514: The rivers leading to the interior ( Tolve , Tricarico , Aliano , Melfi , Metaponto ). In this period, anatomically modern humans lived by cultivating cereals and animal husbandry ( Bovinae and Caprinae ). Chalcolithic sites include the grottoes of Latronico and the funerary findings of the Cervaro grotto near Lagonegro . The first known stable market center of the Apennine culture on

10580-404: The rivers leading to the interior ( Tolve , Tricarico , Aliano , Melfi , Metaponto ). In this period, anatomically modern humans lived by cultivating cereals and animal husbandry ( Bovinae and Caprinae ). Chalcolithic sites include the grottoes of Latronico and the funerary findings of the Cervaro grotto near Lagonegro . The first known stable market center of the Apennine culture on

10695-558: The root of the Latin verb lucere , "to shine"), which is a cognate of the name Lucas . Another proposed etymology is a derivation from the Etruscan word Lauchum (or Lauchme ), meaning " king ", which passed into Latin as Lucumo . Basilicata covers an extensive part of the southern Apennine Mountains , between the Ofanto river in the north and the Pollino massif in the south. It

10810-399: The root of the Latin verb lucere , "to shine"), which is a cognate of the name Lucas . Another proposed etymology is a derivation from the Etruscan word Lauchum (or Lauchme ), meaning " king ", which passed into Latin as Lucumo . Basilicata covers an extensive part of the southern Apennine Mountains , between the Ofanto river in the north and the Pollino massif in the south. It

10925-515: The sea, consisting of huts on the promontory of Capo la Timpa , near to Maratea , dates to the Bronze Age . The first indigenous Iron Age communities lived in large villages in plateaus located at the borders of the plains and the rivers, in places fitting their breeding and agricultural activities. Such settlements include that of Tursi , known at the time as Anglona, located between the fertile valleys of Agri and Sinni , of Siris and, on

11040-457: The sea, consisting of huts on the promontory of Capo la Timpa , near to Maratea , dates to the Bronze Age . The first indigenous Iron Age communities lived in large villages in plateaus located at the borders of the plains and the rivers, in places fitting their breeding and agricultural activities. Such settlements include that of Tursi , known at the time as Anglona, located between the fertile valleys of Agri and Sinni , of Siris and, on

11155-400: The share of practicing believers higher in Basilicata (27.9%) Basilicata is divided into two provinces: [REDACTED] Cultivation consists mainly of sowables (especially wheat), which represent 46% of the total land. Potatoes and maize are produced in the mountain areas. Olives and wine production is relatively small with about 31,000 hectares (77,000 acres) under cultivation. The terrain

11270-400: The share of practicing believers higher in Basilicata (27.9%) Basilicata is divided into two provinces: [REDACTED] Cultivation consists mainly of sowables (especially wheat), which represent 46% of the total land. Potatoes and maize are produced in the mountain areas. Olives and wine production is relatively small with about 31,000 hectares (77,000 acres) under cultivation. The terrain

11385-481: The so-called Castello , a little fortified urban centre. In 732 a ship, fleeing the religious persecution of Leo III the Isaurian , brought the sacred remains of Saint Blaise to Maratea, who thereafter became the patron saint of the town. The remains of the saint are still kept in the Maratea's Basilica, which is built over an ancient temple of Minerva . In 1077 Maratea, together with the rest of Southern Italy,

11500-409: The south. Much of the region was devastated in the 1857 Basilicata earthquake . More recently, the 1980 Irpinia earthquake destroyed many towns in the northwest of the region. The mountainous terrain combined with weak rock and soil types makes landslides prevalent. The lithological structure of the substratum and its chaotic tectonic deformation predispose the slope to landslides, and this problem

11615-409: The south. Much of the region was devastated in the 1857 Basilicata earthquake . More recently, the 1980 Irpinia earthquake destroyed many towns in the northwest of the region. The mountainous terrain combined with weak rock and soil types makes landslides prevalent. The lithological structure of the substratum and its chaotic tectonic deformation predispose the slope to landslides, and this problem

11730-471: The theme of Longobardia . In 968 the theme of Lucania was established, with the capital at Tursikon (Tursi). In the 11th century, Basilicata, together with the rest of much of southern Italy , was conquered by the Normans . Melfi became the first capital of the County of Apulia (later County of Apulia and Calabria ) in 1043, where Robert Guiscard was named "Duke" by Pope Nicholas II . Inherited by

11845-418: The theme of Longobardia . In 968 the theme of Lucania was established, with the capital at Tursikon (Tursi). In the 11th century, Basilicata, together with the rest of much of southern Italy , was conquered by the Normans . Melfi became the first capital of the County of Apulia (later County of Apulia and Calabria ) in 1043, where Robert Guiscard was named "Duke" by Pope Nicholas II . Inherited by

11960-481: The throne of Naples , a movement developed that would have brought about the political unification of the peninsula. In 1848, one of its leaders, the revolutionary Costabile Carducci, was killed after years of being hunted by the Neapolitan militia. In 1861, Italy was finally united. However, at this time Maratea suffered extreme poverty, in common with the rest of Basilicata . Many of its inhabitants emigrated to

12075-466: The town. After three days under siege, Mandarini, who did not receive any help by the English, was forced to surrender (December 10, 1806). In token of their great admiration for the brave resistance, the French spared the lives of the rebels, but ordered them to pull down the walls of the castle. The latter was slowly abandoned during the 19th and 20th century. After the return of the House of Bourbon to

12190-577: The unified Kingdom of Italy (proclaimed in 1861) after the 1860 Expedition of the Thousand . The name probably derives from basilikos ( Greek : βασιλικός ), which refers to the basileus , the Byzantine emperors , who ruled the region for 200 years, from 536/552 to 571/590 and from 879 to 1059. Others argue that the name may refer to the Basilica of Acerenza , which held judicial power in

12305-409: The unified Kingdom of Italy (proclaimed in 1861) after the 1860 Expedition of the Thousand . The name probably derives from basilikos ( Greek : βασιλικός ), which refers to the basileus , the Byzantine emperors , who ruled the region for 200 years, from 536/552 to 571/590 and from 879 to 1059. Others argue that the name may refer to the Basilica of Acerenza , which held judicial power in

12420-449: The west, Apulia to the north and east, and Calabria to the south. It has two coastlines: a 30-km stretch on the Tyrrhenian Sea between Campania and Calabria, and a longer coastline along the Gulf of Taranto between Calabria and Apulia. The region can be thought of as the "arch" of the "boot" of Italy, with Calabria functioning as the "toe" and Apulia the "heel". The region covers about 10,000 km (3,900 sq mi). In 2010,

12535-504: Was conquered by the Normans . In the 11th-12th century, since the Castello could no longer accommodate the increasing population, some of the people of Maratea decided to found a new urban centre, historically called the Borgo (a word that means "village" in Italian ). Today the ancient Borgo is the principal urban centre of Maratea. In view of the risk from Saracen attacks, the Borgo

12650-700: Was designated as the European Capital of Culture . Seaside tourism is mainly concentrated in Maratea , nicknamed "The Pearl of Tyrrhenian Sea", but also the Ionian coast ( Policoro , Pisticci , Bernalda , Nova Siri ) is fairly developed. Naturalistic attractions include Pollino , that hosts the largest national park in Italy, Dolomiti lucane and Vulture . The New York Times ranked Basilicata third in its list of "52 Places to Go in 2018", describing it as "Italy's best-kept secret". Basilicata has

12765-528: Was designated as the European Capital of Culture . Seaside tourism is mainly concentrated in Maratea , nicknamed "The Pearl of Tyrrhenian Sea", but also the Ionian coast ( Policoro , Pisticci , Bernalda , Nova Siri ) is fairly developed. Naturalistic attractions include Pollino , that hosts the largest national park in Italy, Dolomiti lucane and Vulture . The New York Times ranked Basilicata third in its list of "52 Places to Go in 2018", describing it as "Italy's best-kept secret". Basilicata has

12880-450: Was only really after World War II that things slowly began to improve thanks to land reform. In 1952, the inhabitants of the Sassi di Matera were rehoused by the state, but many of Basilicata's population had emigrated or were in the process of emigrating, which led to a demographic crisis from which it is still recovering. Although Basilicata has never had a large population, there have nevertheless been quite considerable fluctuations in

12995-450: Was only really after World War II that things slowly began to improve thanks to land reform. In 1952, the inhabitants of the Sassi di Matera were rehoused by the state, but many of Basilicata's population had emigrated or were in the process of emigrating, which led to a demographic crisis from which it is still recovering. Although Basilicata has never had a large population, there have nevertheless been quite considerable fluctuations in

13110-406: Was put under siege in 1441, by Lauria (a nearby town), and in 1495 by Angevins soldiers. On both occasion it resisted successfully. From 1566 to 1595, six guardhouse-towers were built along the coastline, to protect the new villages that had developed in the meantime: Acquafredda , Cersuta and Porto . On 2 May 1676 the village of the Borgo was besieged by 160 bandits. However, the guards of

13225-538: Was situated behind Mount San Biagio, so that it could not be seen from the sea. In 1282 the War of the Sicilian Vespers began, in which the houses of Angevins and Aragon fought for control of the Kingdom of Naples . The war ended in 1302, but the dispute continued for another century. Between 1302 and 1496, thanks to its loyalty to the royal house, Maratea was awarded numerous grants of autonomy. The Castello

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