Craco
|
Latest page update: 3 September 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
Where is
Where is Craco?
|
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. |
|
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) |
What People Ask About Craco
Where is Craco located?
Why is Craco abandoned?
Can you visit Craco?
What is Craco known for?
How do you get to Craco?
Related links
Discover
Discover Craco
Craco is an abandoned hill town in the Province of Matera, set on a steep clay ridge overlooking the valleys and badlands of Basilicata. Perched above a dramatic landscape of calanchi, it features tightly packed stone houses, narrow lanes, and a skyline marked by a tower that rises over the surrounding countryside. Its elevated setting, reached by winding rural roads, gives Craco a striking and solitary presence in the rugged interior of southern Italy.
The village was gradually abandoned in the 20th century due to landslides and instability in the terrain, leaving behind a haunting network of empty buildings, churches, and silent piazzas. Its atmospheric ruins, including the Norman tower and remains of the old historic quarter, have made it a location for international films and cultural events. Positioned between Pisticci and the inland routes leading towards Matera, Craco stands today as one of Italy’s most evocative ghost towns, tied to both geological forces and its long medieval heritage.
The village was gradually abandoned in the 20th century due to landslides and instability in the terrain, leaving behind a haunting network of empty buildings, churches, and silent piazzas. Its atmospheric ruins, including the Norman tower and remains of the old historic quarter, have made it a location for international films and cultural events. Positioned between Pisticci and the inland routes leading towards Matera, Craco stands today as one of Italy’s most evocative ghost towns, tied to both geological forces and its long medieval heritage.
Things to Do
Things to 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.
Tours and Activities
Craco Tours and Activities
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Craco
Craco has no hotel infrastructure, as the historic hilltop settlement is abandoned and visited only on guided access. Travellers who want established hotels with reliable facilities and a strong volume of guest reviews stay in nearby towns and use Craco as a day-trip destination.
In Matera, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is one of the most prestigious choices in the region, appreciated for its unique cave suites, refined atmosphere and consistently exceptional guest feedback (€€€€). Also in Matera, Palazzo Gattini provides an elegant alternative with spa facilities, polished service and a central position close to the cathedral (€€€€). For those wishing to stay closer to the Ionian coast, Alborèa Ecolodge Resort near Marina di Ginosa offers spacious lodge-style suites, extensive facilities and a peaceful natural setting (€€€€).
In Matera, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is one of the most prestigious choices in the region, appreciated for its unique cave suites, refined atmosphere and consistently exceptional guest feedback (€€€€). Also in Matera, Palazzo Gattini provides an elegant alternative with spa facilities, polished service and a central position close to the cathedral (€€€€). For those wishing to stay closer to the Ionian coast, Alborèa Ecolodge Resort near Marina di Ginosa offers spacious lodge-style suites, extensive facilities and a peaceful natural setting (€€€€).
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Craco
Eating out in Craco is very limited, as the historic centre is now largely abandoned. In the surrounding area, however, a few trattorie and agriturismi serve traditional Lucanian cooking. Typical dishes include handmade pasta with meat sauces, lamb, and local cheeses, often prepared with ingredients from nearby farms. Small bars and cafés in the neighbouring villages provide simple snacks and drinks.
For a wider choice, Pisticci has several trattorie and pizzerias, while the town of Matera offers a full dining scene. There visitors can find everything from family-run restaurants serving regional classics to modern venues with broader menus.
For a wider choice, Pisticci has several trattorie and pizzerias, while the town of Matera offers a full dining scene. There visitors can find everything from family-run restaurants serving regional classics to modern venues with broader menus.
Photo Gallery
Craco Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Craco
- Pisticci (approx. 20 km southeast of Craco): A hill town with whitewashed houses and narrow lanes, Pisticci is divided into several districts including the striking Dirupo quarter. The town has historic churches and views across the surrounding countryside.
- Ferrandina (approx. 25 km northeast of Craco): Known for its olive groves, Ferrandina has a medieval centre with churches, palaces, and stone houses. It is also noted for the Church of Santa Chiara and its strong agricultural traditions.
- Aliano (approx. 30 km west of Craco): A village set among dramatic clay ravines, Aliano is famous as the place of exile of writer Carlo Levi, whose house is now a museum. The town has a historic centre with winding streets and unique landscapes surrounding it.
- Stigliano (approx. 35 km northwest of Craco): A medieval hill town in the Matera province, Stigliano preserves remains of its old castle and several historic churches. It has a traditional character and overlooks the wooded hills of the area.
- Matera (approx. 50 km north of Craco): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera is world-renowned for its Sassi cave dwellings carved into the rock. The city also has rock-hewn churches, museums, and a unique atmosphere that reflects its long history.
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
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
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Craco
By Rail: Craco does not have its own train station. The nearest major station is in Metaponto, located about 40 kilometres away, on the Taranto–Reggio Calabria line served by Trenitalia. From Metaponto, the journey to Craco takes approximately 50 minutes by car. Taxis or private transfers are recommended, as public transport is limited in the area.
By Road: Craco is situated in the hills of Basilicata, roughly 60 kilometres south of Matera. The drive from Matera takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the SS7 and SP103. From Bari, the journey is around 130 kilometres and takes about 2 hours by car. Parking is available near the entrance to the ghost town, which is accessible on foot.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Craco is situated in the hills of Basilicata, roughly 60 kilometres south of Matera. The drive from Matera takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the SS7 and SP103. From Bari, the journey is around 130 kilometres and takes about 2 hours by car. Parking is available near the entrance to the ghost town, which is accessible on foot.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Located approximately 130 kilometres from Craco, with a drive of around 2 hours via the SS407 Basentana and SS7.
- Brindisi Salento Airport: Around 160 kilometres to the east, reachable in just under 2 hours and 30 minutes by car.
- Naples Capodichino Airport: About 200 kilometres away, with a drive of approximately 3 hours, mainly via the A3 and SS407.
Private Transfers
Craco Private Transfers
A private transfer is the simplest and most direct way to reach Craco or travel onwards from the area. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven in comfort by a local, professional driver—avoiding public transport connections or the need to hire a car.
From Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, the journey to Craco takes around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 115 kilometres), while transfers from Matera take about 1 hour (approx. 65 kilometres). If you're arriving at Brindisi Airport, travel time is roughly 2 hours (around 140 kilometres). Transfers from Naples Capodichino Airport take about 3 hours depending on traffic (approx. 210 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, the journey to Craco takes around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 115 kilometres), while transfers from Matera take about 1 hour (approx. 65 kilometres). If you're arriving at Brindisi Airport, travel time is roughly 2 hours (around 140 kilometres). Transfers from Naples Capodichino Airport take about 3 hours depending on traffic (approx. 210 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
