Hidden Gems of Italy: Pisticci (Basilicata)

About 50 km from the well-known town of Matera is Pisticci, the ‘white town’ of Basilicata, set within a spectacular landscape that overlooks the Ionian Sea.   

Pisticci, which was built on top of three hills, is featured among the 100 Wonders of Italy that needs to be safeguarded. Because the area’s soil is mainly clay, which results in the typical calanchi, or badlands, Pisticci has often been affected by landslides.

Indeed, the white houses that are the main feature of the town, were built after a violent landslide in 1688, when the residents refused to move down to the valley. They offer an especially evocative sight when the sun shines directly on them. A stroll through town reveals nice views of the wide green valley below the town.  

The oldest and highest area of ​​Pisticci is Torrevecchia, which takes its name from the square tower that was once part of the Norman castle, the ancient gate to the village; here is where you will also find the Mother Church, built in 1524 in Romanesque-Renaissance style, as well as elegant noble palaces, including the Palazzocchio and Palazzo Giannantonio, seat of the city government. Another highlight is the abbey-sanctuary of Santa Maria La Sanità del Casale, in local stone and Apulian-Romanesque style.

If Pisticci is worth a visit in itself, the surroundings are no less appealing, especially for nature lovers. First, stop to admire the ‘calanchi’, steep slopes created by the erosion of clay-rich soils. 

Then spend some time hiking the trails amid green expanses, canyons, pinnacles and white dunes; this is one of the most spectacular landscapes of Basilicata.

Then head to the coast: Marina di Pisticci offers 10 kilometers of wide beaches, where to relax in the hot summer months. If it gets too hot, the pine forest behind the beach offers shade. 

Fun fact: Pisticci is the birthplace and production site of Amaro Lucano, one of Italy’s most famous liqueurs. The recipe, created in 1894, contains more than 30 herbs and a mysterious ingredient, and it is handed down by members of the Vena family, who jealously guard it.