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Regions in Italy Region Basilicata

Region Basilicata Basilicata is divided into 2 Provinces. It is a small region, mostly mountainous, situated in Southern Italy and with two short coastlines on the Ionian and the Thyrrenian Sea. The most important mountains are Volturino, 2005 m, and Sirino, 1835 m. Among the rivers are the Gravida, Bradano, Basento, Cavone, Agri, Sinni; the lakes are San Giuliano, Lake of Pietra del Petrusillo and Lake of Abate Atonia. Select a province to see a list of the comuni: province of Matera (MT), Province of Potenza (PZ)

Population: The region, due to massive emigration in the past, is underpopulated, the economy is mostly based on agriculture, though the Eastern and central areas are almost desert. Industrial development is low, though there are still some flourishing crafts sectors, such as ceramics, woodwork and textiles. A great promise and hope is tourism, mostly along the Thyrrenian coast. History: Archeological findings show that the areas of the rivers were inhabited since Paleolithic times. In the 13th century BC the Lyki (probably at the origin of the name Lucani), coming from the Danube area, settled in the region and in the following century were greatly enriched culturally by the the Greeks, who colonized the region in the 8th century BC, who founded at the mouths of the largest rivers the cities of Metaponto, Heraclea, Posidonia. The Lucani established a strong military state and fought against the inhabitants of Apulia for long centuries. After being allied to the Romans, they sided with Hannibal in the Punic wars. Under the Empire the region was called Bruttium, then between 1932 and 1945 was renamed Lucania, to become finally "Basilicata" under the Republic. Landmarks The Unesco World Heritage site of Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera The Norman Tower of San Mauro Forte

Lodging in Basilicata: Province of Matera Province of Potenza