Calabria - Basilicata travel guide

 

CALABRIA and BASILICATA

The southern tip of mainland Italy (the 'toe' on a map) is not the most visited part of the country, but has a tough, barren, unspoiled appeal that should increase its popularity. There are also some attractive beach resorts to discover.

 

Basilicata is the more northern of the two regions, and is home to the fascinating city and cave dwellings of Matera and the Greek ruins at Metaponto. Inland and north-east of these places are the castles at Melfi and Lagopesole and some impressive Roman ruins at Venosa.

In the centre of the Basilicata-Calabria region are the lovely port village at Maratea (western coast) and the hill village at Rossano.

Continuing to the southern tip of Italy, visit the town of Tropea, dramatically located on cliffs above the sea.

 

The pilgrimage centre of Stilo and the quiet town of Gerace should also attract your attention. At Reggio di Calabria, at the furthest point on the peninsula, be sure to visit the important Greek statues - the Riace Bronzes - at the national museum.

 

 

Calabria - Basilicata - Italy