Things to Do and See in Potenza

The city of Potenza is the most important city in the province. Its most significant landmark is undoubtedly the Cathedral of San Gerardo, dating back to the 13th century and housing numerous works of art. Also worth visiting are the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, dating back to the 12th century and built in the Romanesque style; the Church and Convent of Santa Maria del Sepolcro, also dating back to the 12th century; and the Guevara Tower, which is all that remains of an ancient castle built by the Lombards around the year 1000. Other monuments of particular interest include the Shrine of Saint Gerard, a small chapel housing the statue of Saint Gerard, the city’s patron saint; and the Roman Villa, an ancient structure of Roman origin dating back to the 3rd century, which reminds us that the city’s history spans nearly two thousand years. Leaving the city of Potenza, we can follow numerous routes that lead to the discovery of many castles overlooking various towns, such as Melfi with its castle and Avigliano with its Castel Lagopesole—both built by Frederick II of Swabia; the town of Venosa, which, in addition to the Aragonese Castle, features an interesting Archaeological Park with numerous remains of Roman-era buildings; in fact, the town is the birthplace of the famous Latin poet Horace. On the coast, in addition to relaxing on the beaches of Maratea, those with a sense of curiosity can explore the various karst caves found in this area.