Things to see · Castles and fortresses
San Basilio Castle, Pisticci
Pisticci (Matera)
San Basilio Castle, Pisticci is in Pisticci, province of Matera. Opening hours: Private property used for events and receptions: visits only on request or during events. Admission: To be confirmed with the owners.
- To be confirmed with the owners.
- Private property used for events and receptions: visits only on request or during events.
About this place
San Basilio Castle is a large fortified farmhouse (masseria) in the countryside of Pisticci, a few kilometres from the Ionian Sea. A square tower dominates the complex, and on clear days you can see the Gulf of Taranto from it.
History
The site was already inhabited by Basilian monks, which gave it its name. In the Norman period it became a fief and took on the appearance of a castle with the construction of the central tower. The Norman lords later donated it to the Benedictines of the abbey of Santa Maria del Casale. In the 14th century it passed to the Certosa di Padula (Charterhouse of Padula), and in the 19th century to the Marquises Ferrante di Ruffano. Today it belongs to the Berlingieri family, whose coat of arms is above the portal.
What to see
• The square tower, which, together with the other towers along the coast, was used to raise the alarm against pirate landings. The bell is still on the terrace.
• The central courtyard, surrounded by the refectory, kitchen, dormitory, library, chapter house and an 18th-century chapel.
• The stone bridge at the entrance, which replaced the old drawbridge.
• Contemporary artworks from the collection housed in the castle.
How to visit
The castle is privately owned and is now used for receptions and events. Visits are possible only on request or during special openings, so it is best to contact the owners in advance.
Useful information
• It is located in the coastal area, between Pisticci and Marina di Pisticci.
• In the centre of Pisticci you will find the rione Dirupo (Dirupo district) and the Mother Church.
