There is a small corner of Basilicata where history mixes with wild nature, and the houses seem to embrace tight to resist the passage of time. We are talking about Castelsaraceno, a village of just 1,154 inhabitants in the province of Potenza, which stands out for a peculiarity that enchants anyone who sees it from above: the particular form that recalls the heart, an almost perfect design traced by the streets and medieval buildings. A romantic case of fate or a curious coincidence, certainly this village brings in its appearance the symbol of Lucanian welcome and authenticity.
The streets get drunk among the stone houses, creating a labyrinth of narrow alleys and hidden squares, where every corner tells a story. The origin of the country dates back to 1031, when the Saracens built a fortified settlement in this borderland. Since then, the village has experienced dominations and rebirths, crossing centuries of history that are still breathing in the air.
A village suspended between history and legend
Among the testimonies of the past, the remains of the Saracen Tower stand out, known as “the bellaro”, which once dominated the valley. Symbol of the warrior origins of the town, today the silent vigil tower on the roofs of Castelsaraceno, immersed in an atmosphere that seems suspended over time.
But it is not only the past that makes this place special. The rebirth of Castelsaraceno took place thanks to the Basilian monks, which in 1086 transformed the ancient “Saracen Castle” into a prospero inhabited center. With their arrival, the village became a crossroads of culture and spirituality, leaving indelible traces still visible today in local churches and traditions.
The Pasto -strong Museum: a journey between ancient traditions
If there is an element that has marked the life of the inhabitants of Castelsaraceno over the centuries, it is shepherds. To pay homage to this tradition, in 2017 the Museum of Pastorice was inaugurated, one of the few in Italy dedicated to this theme. It is not the classic dusty museum, but an interactive and engaging place, where the stories of the shepherds come to life between objects, images and stories.
The four exhibition halls guide the visitor on an emotional journey: from time to memory, from space to knowledge, everything revolves around the Castellana pastoral culture. A way to rediscover the indissoluble link between man and nature, in a land where transhumance has been an essential rite for centuries.
Wild nature and wonderful panoramas
Castelsaraceno is not only history and culture, but also uncontaminated nature. The village is located between two large national parks: the Pollino Park and the Park of the Apennine Lucano-Val d’Agri Lagonegrese. A privileged position that makes it the base perfect to explore the natural wonders of Basilicata.
To dominate the landscape is the Monte Alpi, with the two twin peaks, Santa Croce and Pizzo Falcone, which exceed 1,800 meters above sea level. Here, between very dense woods and rocky walls, you can meet rare species such as the pine loricate, the Apennine wolf and even the real eagle.
But if there is a place that enchants for its beauty and mystery, it is Mount Raparo. Officinal herbs with evocative names grow on this mountain, such as Valerian and Serpillo, and abandoned mills and ancient abbeys are hidden between its gorges. A paradise for hikers, who can walk here immersed in a landscape that changes every season.
The Favino forest and the magic of a picnic among the beech trees
For those looking for a corner of peace, the Favino wood is the right place. At 1,400 meters above sea level, this secular beech forest offers a picnic area equipped with tables and barbecues, perfect for an outdoor day. Between the rustle of the leaves and the scent of the wetland, it is easy to forget the chaos of daily life and let yourself be enveloped by the magic of nature.
The longest Tibetan bridge in the world
But the real attraction that in recent years has put Castelsaraceno on the map of adventure tourism is the longest Tibetan bridge in the world. With 586 meters in length, it connects the village with a rocky spur between the slopes of Mount Raparo, for an unparalleled adrenaline experience.
Crossing it is a journey halfway between courage and amazement: 1160 steps suspended in the void, with a view that ranges from the tops of the mountains to the horizon. For some it is a challenge, for others an opportunity to reconnect with nature in a completely new way.
In recent months, over 50,000 visitors have arrived here to test themselves and discover the beauty of this hidden village. And with Easter upside down, the flow of tourists is destined to grow again.
Sports activities
Those who love sport and outdoor activities will find a true natural paradise in Castelsaraceno, with a wide offer of hiking and cycle paths immersed in uncontaminated landscapes. Mountain Bike enthusiasts will be able to choose between eight different paths, designed to adapt to various levels of experience and training. For those who prefer trekking, the AIGAE certified guides organize excursions of various difficulties, some of which reach almost two thousand meters above sea level. The paths that wind between the peaks of Monte Alpi and Monte Raparo offer tracks suitable not only for more experienced hikers, but also to families with children and those who simply want to reconnect with nature through a regenerating walk in the greenery.
Lovers of mountaineering and climbing will find equipped walls, railways and climbing peaks, exciting challenges that however require adequate physical preparation and respect for safety measures. The mountain is a fascinating environment, but can prove insidious for those who do not face their difficulties with the right prudence and awareness.
For more information, we refer you to the official website.
