When we talk about Vietri di Potenza we commonly refer to the door of the Basilicata. A perfectly fitting definition for those coming from Campania. The small and characteristic village is in fact the first inhabited center that one encounters, just to greet the visitors of the splendid Lucanian land.
Its position makes it a panoramic area, being on the spur of the Lucanian Apennines, in the Melandro area. The landscape is nothing short of suggestive, with wonderful beech woods. It hides traces of its past in its name. Campi Veteres would in fact be the place where the Roman consul Titus Sempronio Gracchus died, during the second Punic war.
The rich historical heritage is characterized by the marquis castle, the numerous ancient buildings and its churches. Added to this are naturalistic resources such as the Puzz 'gnunt Gorges, according to the local name.
Vietri di Potenza history
One of the most important historical aspects is given by the fact that Frederick II included it in the list of cities required to maintain particular castles. Over the centuries it has been a Gothic and later Lombard stronghold, only to see different feudal families follow one another. At the end of the Angevin power, it belongs to Giacomo Filangieri and to the Gesualdo family. Later it was in the hands of Count Innigo de Guevara and then of his nephew Don Carlo, responsible for the construction of the convent. Finally, in the eighteenth century, the village passed under the guidance of the Caracciolo family.
Get inspired
There are several places to discover in Vietri di Potenza, which enrich the historical and cultural heritage. To visit the Convent of the Capuchin friars. It is surrounded by greenery, on top of the hill overlooking the village. Built in the second half of 1600. It was a center of cultural influence and today a place of prayer that houses works of art.
The administration has kicked off a series of artistic murals during the Osa Around festival. This is how a fascinating street art path was born. The historic center offers a walk among the remains of the ancient city walls, the Clock Tower in Piazza del Popolo, a series of noble buildings such as the Palazzo dei Briganti and the marquis castle. Also interesting are the religious architecture, such as that of the mother church of San Nicola di Mira.
What to eat
Looking at the gastronomic products, one of the main pride of Vietri di Potenza is undoubtedly extra virgin olive oil. The pastoral tradition is very lively and can be seen in the production of excellent cheeses, such as pecorino.
Added to this are the exquisite locally produced cured meats, as well as homemade pasta, rigorously seasoned with traditional sauces. Among the recommended places to eat typical dishes there is certainly the Agriturismo Melandro, which is a company specializing in the production of oil and fresh pasta. More km 0 than that.
