Where Is Castelmezzano?
Castelmezzano can be found in southern Italy’s Basilicata region. The magnificent Dolomiti Lucane mountain range is located in the valley de Basento. It’s a hidden gem in Italy because it isn’t surrounded by famous spots.
How To Get To Castelmezzano?
Castelmezzano lies a little off the main road. This means that public transport options are limited. Local bus services operate between the Basilicata area. SITA SUD is the local bus company. You can find schedules to Castelmezzano from two cities close by. The cities of Potenza (38km) and Matera (84) are the main points for scenic Italian villages. A car is the best option. It’s also possible for you to visit nearby villages such as Pietrapertosa.
What to See in Castelmezzano
Castelmezzano, Italy, is a charming medieval city with churches, landmarks and colorful buildings for living, dining, and accommodation.
1. Step Up to Gradinata Normanna
You can stop at the viewpoint located in the main square of Castelmezzano to admire its beauty. Stunning views of the dolomites mountains and charming buildings. This is a great spot to take photos, view the village and relax after a hike.
It is worth the short climb from Gradinata Normanna to a village. From the village, the pathway begins. You will reach the top by climbing the stairs. The view from the top of Castelmezzano is spectacular.
2. Look for the Churches
The churches are the cornerstones of most Italian villages. Castelmezzano’s most famous church is the Mother Church Santa Maria dell’Olmo. It is located right next to the main square. A smaller church in the village is the Church of Santo Sepolcro. The Chapel of Madonna dell’Annunziata is also worth mentioning. It is located just outside the village and is close to the hiking trails.
3. Viewpoint in the Village Center
You can stop at the viewpoint located in the main square of Castelmezzano to admire its beauty. Stunning views of the dolomites mountains and charming buildings. This is a great spot to take photos, view the village and relax after a hike.
4. Stroll around the Medieval Village
Castelmezzano is characterized by its medieval architecture and preserved buildings. It’s a unique experience to stroll along the narrow streets next to the stone houses. It is a mountain village, with narrow steps that lead up and down. It’s a wonderful place to wander around and enjoy the small-town atmosphere.
5. Visit the Neighboring Village Pietrapertosa
A stone’s throw from the beautiful village of Look-alike is a small, peaceful community. There are many ways to reach Pietrapertosa by car from Castelmezzano. You can take a 10-km car ride, use a shortcut on hiking trails, or zipline to get there at high speed. Pietrapertosa was built entirely on bare rock, so the houses were shaped naturally by the elements. The Mother Church of San Giacomo Maggiore and the Convent of San Francesco are worth a visit.
Castelmezzano is home to many scenic hiking trails, stunning dolomite mountains and something for adrenaline junkies.
6. Wander around the Lucanian Dolomites
There are many hiking trails around the Lucanian Dolomites. From walking trails to climbing up to Dolomiti Lucane mountain, there are many hiking options. As mentioned, there are small hikes that can be done. These include a walk to Gradinata Normanna or trails around Castelmezzano beginning at the Chapel of Madonna dell’Annunziata. These are similar to walks with some gains so no additional equipment is required.
Via Ferrata Salemm
There is also something for serious climbers. You don’t have to be a certified climber to go there, but it’s important to use proper equipment. The Via Ferrata Salemm path is an option. The route runs from the village’s Dolomite Mountains to the nearby village Pietrapertosa. Only the mountains can be climbed. PS: If you don’t wish to, you don’t need to follow the entire path.
Seven Stone Path
The historical Seven Stone Path is a slightly longer walk. It runs from Castelmezzano up to Pietrapertosa. It is a short walk between two beautiful Italian villages. Enjoy scenic views along the way.
7. Volo Dell’Angelo High-Speed Zip Line
The high-speed zip-line Volo dell’Angelo, which is a more adrenaline-filled activity in Castelmezzano, is a unique and thrilling one. Also known as the angel flight. This activity is for adrenaline junkies. It starts on a hill near the village. Then it connects over the valley to neighboring Pietrapertosa. It also ends in Castelmezzano. It takes “pilots” to fly above 400m from the ground at speeds of over 120 km/h (70mph). This is a unique experience that you should try in this hidden gem of Italy.
Where to Eat?
Castelmezzano is known for its Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. Because it is a small community, most restaurants are owned and operated by local families. You will receive a warm welcome. You will find budget-friendly restaurants that offer classics as well as some local dishes like Trattoria dal Vecchio Scarpone and Trattoria da Spadino.
Castelmezzano, with a population of less than 800 people, is still blessed by a Michelin-starred restaurant. Al Becco della Civetta was awarded this honorable sign in 2020. It’s a special occasion for a romantic dinner.