metapontum It is a small fraction of the municipality of Bernalda, in Basilicata, which has become a renowned spa in the province of Matera, but which in the past was one of the most flourishing cities of Magna Graecia. Born in the plain to which it gave its name, precisely the Metapontine, this ancient center is located on the Ionian coast, between two waterways, the Bradano to the east and the Basento to the west. The ancient center of Metaponto was founded in the second half of the 7th century BC. C. by Greek settlers from Achaia, the region north of the Peloponnese, although other sources trace the founding of the city to Nestor, the Greek hero who fought in Troy. The truth is that Metaponto soon became a rich and flourishing city, also thanks to the fertile soil that made crops abundant.
The history of the city of Metapontum is long and involves fascinating historical figures such as Hannibal, the great Carthaginian leader, and Spartacus, the gladiator who led the slave revolt in the third servile war that Rome faced. But the best way to learn about and delve into the region's rich past is without a doubt visit the archaeological area of Metaponto, located a few kilometers from the center of the town, and the National Archaeological Museum in the center of the hamlet.
The beaches of Metaponto are wide and welcoming and you will walk on very fine golden sand looking at a crystal clear sea in which you can't wait to dive. The equipped beaches offer tourists various amenities and are also perfect for those who want to engage in water sports. In addition, almost all of them host nightclubs, some quiet and romantic, others organized for music evenings and DJ sessions.
A short distance from Metaponto is the municipality of Bernalda, built on a steep plateau with an incredible view of the sea. In the summer months, the city hosts the famous BasiliJazz, a jazz music festival greatly appreciated by residents and tourists. At the western end of the city, it is worth seeing the Mother Church, which dates back to the 1616th century and expanded in the following century, as you continue along the narrow streets you reach, passing in front of the old city clock, the old Carmine Church. . Continuing towards the center and passing the town hall, you will also discover the Church of the Convent of Sant'Antonio da Padova, founded in XNUMX.
But the most important historical complex in Bernalda is undoubtedly his. castle, an imposing military structure, facing southwest, dominating the Basento valley. The original fortification was probably built by the Normans during the 11th century, if not by other earlier conquerors. The castle, which can still be admired today, dates back to the 15th century and was built by Bernardino de Bernaudo, the feudal lord who gave its name to the city.
Another tourist pearl of the Metaponto area is the city of polychorus, built not far from the remains of Heracleia, the ancient urban center of Magna Graecia and scene of the battle of 280 BC. C. between the Romans and General Pirro. Today Policoro is a fundamental stop to discover the ancient history of the region and we recommend you start from National Archaeological Museum of Siritide, located directly within the archaeological site of Heraclea.
Also in Policoro, don't miss the WWF Oasis inside the Bosco Pantano Natural Reserve, one of the favorite destinations for birdwatching lovers since it is an important passage and rest area for migratory birds. If you come in the right season you will be able to observe numerous species, including the white heron, the gray heron, the owl and the kite. In addition to birds, various mammals such as otters, martens and badgers and reptiles such as rat snakes and deer live in the park. There is also a large colony of turtles, including the caretta caretta turtle, but also the marsh turtle and the land turtle.
Along the provincial road between the Agri and Sinni rivers you reach the mountainous interior of the south of Basilicata. After passing the small village of Panevino, belonging to the municipality of Tursi, you reach the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Regina di Anglona, declared a national monument. Built on a hill between the 11th and 12th centuries, the sanctuary dominates the surrounding valley and offers a privileged view of the Lucanian hills. The structure of the church was modified over the centuries, but some elements such as the elegant apse, the bell tower and the doorway have preserved the original Romanesque style. Inside you can still admire the remains of the ancient frescoes, among the episodes of the Old Testament you can recognize the creation and the Tower of Babel.
