Craco

Craco​

Latest page update: 29 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The village of Craco is situated within the Province of Matera and has a population of 707 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 391 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 77 km². ​The closest hotel is 20 km away while nearby places of interest include Ferrandina, Aliano, Tursi, Bernalda and Rotondella.

What People Ask About Craco

Where is Craco located?
Craco is located in the region of Basilicata, in the province of Matera. It lies about 50 km southeast of Matera and 40 km from the Ionian coast, in a hilly area above the Cavone Valley.
Why is Craco abandoned?
Craco was abandoned due to a series of natural disasters. Landslides in the 1960s, followed by floods and an earthquake in the 1980s, made the town unsafe to inhabit. The population was relocated to a nearby area called Craco Peschiera.
Can you visit Craco?
Yes, you can visit Craco as part of a guided tour. Due to safety concerns, access to the ghost town is only permitted with authorised guides, who provide helmets and explain the history as you explore the abandoned buildings and streets.
What is Craco known for?
Craco is known as one of Italy’s most famous ghost towns. Its dramatic appearance and deserted medieval streets have been featured in films such as *The Passion of the Christ* and *Quantum of Solace*, attracting photographers and film enthusiasts.
How do you get to Craco?
Craco is best reached by car. It’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Matera and 1 hour from Taranto. The town is isolated, and there are no direct train services. Guided tours can be booked locally or online in advance.
Related links
Craco • Basilicata • Ghost Town
Craco is a historic ghost town located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, perched on a hilltop in the Murgia plateau. Known for its dramatic landscape and eerie atmosphere, Craco was once a thriving village, but it was abandoned in the 1960s due to a series of landslides that made the area increasingly unsafe. Today, it stands as a hauntingly beautiful testament to the past, with its ancient stone buildings, narrow streets, and towering bell tower offering a glimpse into its former life.

The town is surrounded by rugged, untouched countryside, providing a striking contrast to the decaying ruins. Visitors are drawn to Craco for its unique charm and its role as a filming location for various movies, thanks to its ghostly appearance and breathtaking setting. The town itself offers a fascinating exploration of old houses, churches, and other structures that tell the story of its once-thriving community.

Nearby, the town of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings and UNESCO World Heritage status, is just a short drive away. The region of Basilicata, with its untouched landscapes and quaint villages, offers ample opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. Craco, with its combination of history, mystery, and natural beauty, remains a captivating and evocative destination in southern Italy.​
Must-see and do in Craco:
  • Craco, Paese Fantasma (Ghost Town): Craco is a historic village in Basilicata, southern Italy, known for its dramatic cliffside location and as a "ghost town." Abandoned due to landslides and earthquakes, it offers visitors a haunting glimpse into its storied past. The village’s old houses, narrow streets, and churches remain largely intact, providing a fascinating and eerie atmosphere.
  • Parco Museale Scenografico di Craco: This open-air museum provides guided tours of the abandoned village, highlighting its historical significance and the events that led to its abandonment. Visitors can explore the remnants of the old town, including houses, churches, and the central square, immersing themselves in the history of this once-thriving community.
  • Torre Normanna (Norman Tower): The Norman Tower, dating back to the 11th century, stands as a key historical landmark of Craco. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and hills, making it an excellent spot for photography. It is a reminder of Craco’s medieval importance as a defensive and strategic location.
  • Chiesa di San Nicola Vescovo (Church of Saint Nicholas the Bishop): Built in the 17th century, this Baroque-style church features beautiful frescoes and an ornate altar. The church reflects Craco’s religious history and is an important symbol of the town's spiritual heritage. It remains a significant site in the village, offering a serene atmosphere amidst the town’s abandoned landscape.
  • MEC - Emotional Museum of Craco: This immersive museum uses multimedia exhibits to tell the story of Craco, focusing on the village’s rise and eventual decline. Through photographs, videos, and interactive displays, visitors can learn about the lives of those who once lived in Craco and understand the factors that led to its abandonment.
Comune di Craco
Province: Matera

Region: Basilicata

Population: 592 (in 2024 - source)

Size: 77 km²

Elevation: 391 metres

Highlights: Torre Normanna, MEC - Museo Emozionale di Craco

​Close by: Ferrandina, Aliano, Tursi, Bernalda, Rotondella, Valsinni

Recommended stay: Hotel ​Ristorante Mariano (25 km)

Craco​​​  Gallery

Basilicata Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Basilicata

1. ​Matera
2. Craco
3. ​Maratea
4. Melfi 
5. Pietrapertosa 
6. ​Sant'Angelo Le Fratte
7. Venosa
8. Pollino National Park
9. ​Satriano di Lucania
10. Castelmezzano ​

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Basilicata

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