Potenza​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 29 October 2023
The city of Potenza is the capital city of Basilicata with a population of 66,769 inhabitants. 

It stands at an elevation of 819 metres above sea level and covers a total area of 173 km².

​ At the centre of Potenza is its main square, Piazza Mario Pagano which is the location of Teatro Stabile. Other places of interest include Potenza Cathedral (Duomo di San Gerardo) and the 13th century church: Chiesa di San Francesco. 
The majority of shops and restaurants are situated on Via Pretoria,​ Piazza Duomo and Piazza Mario Pagano. ​
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Profile
Potenza is the capital city of the Basilicata region and the province of Potenza in southern Italy. It is situated in the Apennine Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. ​
History
Potenza has a long and rich history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to ancient times. The town was founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC and was strategically important due to its location along the Via Appia, an ancient Roman road.

Over the centuries, Potenza was ruled by various civilizations, including the Byzantines, Lombards, and Normans. It later became part of the Kingdom of Naples and was a thriving cultural and economic center during the Middle Ages.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Historic Centre: The historic centre of Potenza is a maze of narrow streets and charming squares. Visitors can explore historic buildings, churches, and museums that reflect the town's rich architectural heritage.
  • Duomo of San Gerardo: One of the main attractions in Potenza is the Duomo of San Gerardo, a stunning cathedral built in the 12th century and later renovated in the Baroque style. It houses important religious artifacts and is an impressive example of local architecture.
  • Palazzo Loffredo: This historic palace, located in the heart of the town, is a fine example of Baroque architecture. It currently serves as the Town Hall and is open to visitors.
  • San Michele Arcangelo Church: This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and features a beautiful rose window and an elegant bell tower.
  • Potenza Regional Archaeological Museum: For history enthusiasts, this museum showcases archaeological artifacts and art from various periods, providing insights into the region's past.
  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mountains, Potenza offers breathtaking natural beauty. The nearby Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Lucano (National Park of the Lucanian Apennines) is a great place for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Local Cuisine: Potenza's culinary scene is influenced by the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including homemade pasta, cheeses, and delicious sausages.
  • Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Potenza hosts various festivals and events, celebrating local traditions, music, and folklore.
  • Via Appia: History enthusiasts can explore a section of the ancient Roman road, Via Appia, which once passed through Potenza and is now a popular hiking trail.
Comune di Potenza
Province: Potenza

Region: capital of Basilicata

Population: 65,420​​ ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

Size: 173 km²

Elevation: 819 metres

Highlights: Teatro Stabile, Duomo di San Gerardo (Cathedral)

Close by: ​​​Pignola, Satriano di Lucania, Castelmezzano, Brienza

Recommended hotel: Albergo La Primula

Potenza  Travel

Using public transport you can take a direct train to the town of Ferrandina from where you can take another train to Matera. There are also coach options connecting Naples Airport, non-stop with a journey time of one hour 50 minutes or if you drive, the same journey is slightly longer: just under two hours. Also by car you can reach Matera in 1 hour and 13 minutes (102 km), Melfi in 50 minutes (52 km) and Maratea in one hour and 47 minutes, a distance of 102 kilometres. 

Potenza's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, called Potenza Centrale, is situated 1.7 kilometres from Piazza Mario Pagano, a walk of around twenty minutes. The most convenient airport for Potenza is Naples International Airport which is 157 kilometres away, in the region of Campania. ​ Nearby places of interest include Pignola, Satriano di Lucania, Castelmezzano, Brienza, Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa.
Public transport: ​​​train station 1.7 km from centre, Local buses

By train: ​​​Ferrandina - 1 hr 2 minutes
By car: Melfi - 50 mins, Matera - 1 hr 13 mins, Maratea - 1 hr 47 m

Fly to: ​​​Naples International Airport (157 km)

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