The Volo dell'Angelo between Castemezzano and Pietrapertosa Photo: stock.adobe.com/Why Not
From our editorial team
There are places that seem to be from another world. Castelmezzano is one of them. High up in the Dolomiti Lucane, at an altitude of around 750 metres, the village clings to the rocks.
Once you have walked through the narrow alleyways, you will understand why it is one of the "most beautiful villages in Italy" - and why it is so fascinating despite, or perhaps because of, its remoteness. The scenery is spectacular: mighty rocky peaks, steep slopes, houses that seem to grow straight out of the stone. Its history goes back a long way - to the 6th century BC, when Greek colonists founded the settlement of Maudoron here. What is now a quiet mountain village was a strategically important point back then.
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Freesurf
Escape from the sarascenes
Castelmezzano got its current name and character in the 10th century, when people fled from the advancing Saracens. They sought shelter in the mountains - and found it in this difficult-to-access rocky landscape. The name "Castelmezzano" means something like "castle in the middle" - and refers to the location between the neighbouring villages of Pietrapertosa and Albano di Lucania.
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You can still see traces of the past today, for example on the "Gradinata Normanna", a rock staircase with 54 steps carved into stone that leads to the remains of a medieval fortress. Those who climb it are rewarded with a breathtaking view.
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More goats than people
The town is dominated by medieval flair: narrow alleyways, steep steps, houses that seem to be glued to the rocks. There are no large hotels, no shopping chains. The surrounding nature is even quieter, but just as impressive. Castelmezzano is located in the Gallipoli Cognato Piccole Dolomiti Lucane Regional Nature Park, an area full of rare plants, rugged rock formations and unspoilt hiking trails. Here you will encounter more goats than people - and discover a piece of Italy that hardly seems to have changed.
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The angelic flight
Speaking of adventure: Castelmezzano is also the starting point for one of the most spectacular experiences in southern Italy - the "Volo dell'Angelo", the "Flight of the Angel". At speeds of up to 120 km/h, brave souls hurtle along a zipline from one mountain peak to the next, high above the gorge between Castelmezzano and the neighbouring village of Pietrapertosa. Thrills and panoramic views included.
Simple, honest food
And of course: food! The cuisine of Castelmezzano is like the village itself - honest, down-to-earth and full of flavour. Anyone sitting at the table here will be served specialities from the Basilicata region, such as pepperoni cruschi, crispy roasted peppers, or hearty sausage specialities from local production. Castelmezzano is not a place for those in a hurry. But it is a little paradise for anyone who wants to discover the real Italy.
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