Grumento Nova (Potenza)
Lake Pertusillo
Lake Pietra del Pertusillo is the large artificial lake of the Val d’Agri, between Grumento Nova, Spinoso and Montemurro. Surrounded by woods and hills, it lies within the Appennino Lucano National Park.
- Opening hoursNatural area always accessible.
- AdmissionFree entry.
- WhereDiga del Pertusillo – 85039 Spinoso (PZ)
History
The lake was formed by the dam on the Agri river, built between 1957 and 1962. It is an arch-gravity dam, 95 metres high and 380 metres long. The name comes from the “Pietra del Pertusillo” (Pertusillo Rock), the point where the river once ran narrow between the rocks. The lake covers an area of about 7.5 square kilometres and holds up to 155 million cubic metres of water. It produces electricity, irrigates more than 35,000 hectares across Basilicata and Puglia, and is one of the starting points of the Acquedotto Pugliese (Puglia’s water aqueduct).
What to see
- The dam, in the river gorge towards Spinoso, with views over the lake and the valley.
- Waterbirds coots, wild ducks and grey herons, which live along the more secluded stretches of the shore, along with many birds of prey.
- The shores and woods, lovely to explore on foot or by bike, with the park’s mountains in the background.
Useful information
- The best times for birdwatching are spring and autumn. Bring binoculars and stick to the paths.
- Recreational fishing requires a licence and compliance with local rules.
- A few minutes away is the Grumentum archaeological park, the ancient Roman city of the Val d’Agri. For more lakes to visit, see the guide The Lakes of Basilicata.
