Calvello

A small jewel in the Val d’Agri

Of all the villages in Basilicata, Calvello is definitely worth a visit. It is located in the central northern part of the province of Potenza, at the foot of Monte Venturino, on one side of the Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese Apennine National Park. Surrounded by mountains, it boasts an impressive natural setting amidst forests of beech, maple and chestnut trees.

The village centre features characteristic stone houses and steep alleys. Don’t miss the 15th-century Mother Church of Saint John the Baptist, a treasure trove of artistic treasures, including two carved portals. Admire the marvellous architecture of the Convent of Santa Maria de Plano, founded in the 12th century by the Benedictines, and the Museo della Canzone Napoletana (Museum of Neapolitan Song), which is housed in its cloisters.

Calvello is overshadowed by Castello Carafa-Ruffo, a Norman fortress built to guard the valley: it houses the Museo Multimediale della Ceramica with its permanent exhibition of various tools and ceramic objects.

The Sanctuary of Maria Santissima del Monte Saraceno, located 1,320 metres above sea level, is a few miles from the town. It contains an effigy of the Virgin in an urn called a caggia (capsule), made by local craftsmen.

For a unique view of Calvello, don’t miss the Sant’Antuono Bridge.