Weekend nel Vulture tra borghi, castagne e foliage

About the destination: Rionero in Vulture is a town and comune in the province of Potenza, in the southern Italian region of Basilicata. It is located on the slopes of Monte Vulture in the northern part of the region.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of the Basilicata region, Melfi is a charming town that invites travelers to step back in time and explore southern Italy’s rich history. Dominated by its imposing medieval castle, Melfi is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of culture, architecture, and authentic Italian atmosphere away from the crowded tourist hotspots. The Melfi Castle, perched atop a hill, is undoubtedly the town’s main attraction. Originally constructed in the 11th century by the Normans, the castle now houses the Museo Archeologico Nazionale del Melfese, where visitors can discover fascinating artifacts from the region’s ancient past. The castle’s ramparts also offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with olive groves and vineyards. Beyond its castle, Melfi boasts a delightful historic center filled with narrow cobblestone streets, quaint piazzas, and centuries-old churches such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, sample local delicacies like the famous Melfi “peperoni cruschi” (crunchy peppers), and experience the warm hospitality of its residents. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Mount Vulture provides opportunities for hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque lakes of Monticchio, nestled in the ancient volcanic craters. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of scenic beauty, Melfi offers a unique and memorable Italian escape.

About the destination: Venosa (Lucano: Venòse) is a town and comune in the province of Potenza, in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, in the Vulture area. It is bounded by the comuni of Barile, Ginestra, Lavello, Maschito, Montemilone, Palazzo San Gervasio, Rapolla and Spinazzola. The city was known as Venusia ("City of Venus") to the Romans, who credited its establishment—as Aphrodisia ("City of Aphrodite")—to the Homeric hero Diomedes. He was said to have moved to Magna Graeca in southern Italy following the Trojan War, seeking a life of peace and building the town and its temples to appease the anger of Aphrodite for the destruction of her beloved Troy. The town was taken by the Romans after the Third Samnite War in 291 BC and became a colony. No fewer than 20,000 men were sent there, owing to its military importance. Throughout the Hannibalic wars it remained faithful to Rome, and had a further contingent of colonists sent in 200 BC to replace its losses in war. In 190 BC the Appian way was extended to the town. Some coins of Venusia of this period exist. It took part in the Social War, and was recaptured by Quintus Metellus Pius; it then became a municipium, but in 43 BC its territory was assigned to the veterans of the triumvirs, and it became a colony once more. Horace was born here in 65 BC. It remained an important place under the Empire as a station on the Via Appia, though Theodor Mommsen's description of it as having branch roads to Aequum Tuticum and Potentia, and Kiepert's maps annexed to the volume, do not agree with one another.