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Province of Potenza

Pietrapertosa

Basilicata's highest village, in the Lucanian Dolomites

Discover Pietrapertosa

Pietrapertosa is the highest village in Basilicata, at over a thousand metres, built on bare rock among the peaks of the Lucanian Dolomites. It is one of «The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy» and its name recalls the «pierced stone», a large rock with a hole visible from the village.

Sights include the castle perched at the top of the village, the Arabata, the oldest quarter, and the 15th-century mother church of San Giacomo Maggiore. This is also the starting point of the Flight of the Angel towards Castelmezzano. In June the «Mascio» tree ritual is held in honour of Saint Anthony.

What to see in a day

Pietrapertosa is one of the highest villages in Basilicata, over a thousand metres up, clinging to the rocks of the Lucanian Dolomites. It is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.

  • The castle, built on the rock, overlooking the whole Basento valley
  • The Arabata, the oldest quarter, with houses carved into the stone
  • The Convent of San Francesco and its frescoes
  • The Flight of the Angel, linking the village to Castelmezzano
  • The Path of the Seven Stones, on foot to Castelmezzano

When to go

May to October for the trails and the Flight of the Angel. In winter the village is quiet and it can snow. In June the village holds its Maggio festival, linked to Saint Anthony.

Getting there

By car from Potenza, about an hour along the Basento valley. The village is explored on foot: the streets of the centre are narrow and steep.

What to eat

Mountain cured meats and cheeses, hand-made pasta, lamb and kid, and in autumn mushrooms and chestnuts from the park's woods.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Pietrapertosa?

The village lies over a thousand metres above sea level, among the highest in Basilicata.

Can I visit Pietrapertosa castle?

Yes, it is a walk up through the rocks from the centre. The view over the valley is one of the main reasons to come.

Where does the Flight of the Angel start?

You can start from either Pietrapertosa or Castelmezzano: the line links the two villages, with one leg out and one back.

Do I need a car to reach Pietrapertosa?

It is the easiest option: public transport is limited.

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