The Lucano Val d'Agri Lagonegrese Apennine National Park, varied in its landscapes and the scene of incredible natural scenery, fascinates travellers who, enveloped by its beauty, can trace different itineraries and routes according to their own idea of a stay. Its territory almost encroaches, uncontainable, into that of the Pollino Park where, here too, uncontaminated nature reigns, recreating marvellous scenery. The Lucano Apennine National Park includes hills and valleys that chase each other, furrowed by rivers and streams, while a constellation of ancient villages colours this land, creating a unique dimension where the world stops and the history of nature and mankind is rediscovered.
The Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Lucano Val d'Agri Lagonegrese is among the youngest protected areas in Basilicata. Its surface area covers 69.000 hectares and embraces 29 municipalities, all in the province of Potenza: Abriola, Anzi, Armento, Brienza, Calvello, Carbone, Castelsaraceno, Gallicchio, Grumento Nova, Lagonegro, Laurenzana, Lauria, Marsico Nuovo, Marsicovetere, Moliterno, Montemurro, Nemoli, Paterno, Pignola, Rivello, San Chirico Raparo, San Martino d'Agri, Sarconi, Sasso di Castalda, Satriano di Lucania, Spinoso, Tito, Tramutola and Viggiano. The territory includes some of the highest peaks of the southern Apennines, such as Mount Pierfaone (1744 metres), Volturino (1836 metres), Raparo (1761 metres) and Mount Papa (2005 metres) in the Sirino Massif: from these heights overlooking the wide valleys, it is possible to admire enchantingly beautiful natural panoramas crossed by the Agri river. The large expanse of the park makes this area rich in biodiversity: on the heights there are dense and evocative beech forests that give way to silver firs, until they decline into wooded expanses interspersed with pastures and meadows. This natural habitat is home to wolves, deer, roe deer, wild boar and otters. But the wonders do not end here: the Lucano Apennine Park, in fact, is located close to the Pollino and Vallo di Diano National Parks in Cilento, acting as an environmental corridor between the two large reserves and creating an interweaving of habitats, which within them are home to species from different territories. This area, therefore, is an ideal destination for travellers who love to explore and discover unspoilt places with authentic traditions and natural features.
There is no shortage of things to do in the Lucano Apennine National Park. The entire area, in fact, so rich in scenic beauty, ancient historical villages and gastronomic delicacies, offers experiences in the pursuit of nature, art and culture. The villages enclosed in this large and picturesque area are often true gems to be visited carefully. It is impossible to list all the areas not to be missed, but particular attention should be paid to the village of Grumento Nova, with its interesting Archaeological Park that has earned it the nickname 'Little Pompeii', and Brienza, a characteristic village that still retains its medieval layout with the striking Angevin-era Caracciolo Castle. But one of the most evocative aspects of this area is undoubtedly the surrounding landscape, which offers glimpses and views where nature is the undisputed protagonist among woods and valleys crossed by rivers, streams and lakes. Inside the park it is possible to go trekking along the many itineraries available; of great interest, then, is the Pertusillo Stone Lake (an artificial reservoir dammed by the Agri river), which is surrounded by a beautiful landscape of woods and local vegetation ideal for excursions or peaceful outings. There is no shortage of horse riding stables in the park and also points of interest for sport climbers who can scale the limestone cliffs in the municipalities of Marsico Nuovo, Marsicovetere and Viggiano. In winter, on the other hand, the peaks of Volturino and the Montagna Grande di Viggiano are filled with snow and become popular destinations for ski enthusiasts. Finally, throughout the year, many trails divided by type, duration and difficulty await trekking and mountain biking enthusiasts who can enjoy sports while being in close contact with nature. There are so many experiences to be had, and choosing them (although it will not be easy, given the many options!) will be the best way to get to know the area while getting in tune with it.
The Lucano Apennine National Park offers a cuisine that has its origins in the rural tradition, a strong point of Basilicata's identity. The flavours of this area are based on so-called 'poor' ingredients that give rise to recipes with unmistakable and ancient flavours and aromas. Reviewing all the typical dishes of the local gastronomy would be a very arduous undertaking: all the municipalities and villages within the Park, in fact, have their own culinary traditions that make them unique. Nevertheless, we can still find some local excellences not to be missed if you are travelling to these lands. All the ancient villages boast a long and proud tradition of making homemade pasta: in this regard, we recommend the lagane with chickpeas and maccheroni ai ferri seasoned with meat sauce. Typical products are also kid meat, to be prepared grilled or baked, and pulses, a true speciality of the area, such as Sarconi beans (with the PGI mark) and the 'cuccia' soup (a mix of chickpeas, chickling peas, lentils, broad beans and peas). Other dishes to try are lampascioni, bulbs similar to spring onions but with a bitter aftertaste, and vegetables preserved in oil or stuffed as in the case of aubergines and peppers stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, spices and meat. The cheeses are also a must-try: a tip? Don't miss out on Canestrato di Moliterno, a slightly spicy IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) ripened cheese. Let's get to the desserts: in Lucania we find simple sweets with ancient origins. To be tasted: chiacchiere, iced or almond-filled biscuits and fried calzoncelli filled with chestnut cream. Finally, anyone wishing to toast will be able to enjoy excellent local wines such as the DOC 'Terre dell'Alta Val D'Agri', produced from grapes grown in the vineyards of Viggiano, Grumento Nova and Moliterno.
The events held within the territory of the Lucania Apennine National Park are many and all show a deep connection with local traditions and the area's natural and food and wine resources. The summer period is particularly rich in events, which often, due to their large scale, have an appeal not only for the local population but also for those living in or travelling through the surrounding areas. The calendar of events is extremely rich and it is impossible to mention them all. Certainly of great importance is the Sagra del Fagiolo di Sarconi IGP, a festival that celebrates this local product of great territorial importance every August; 'Alla ricerca dei sapori perduti di Spinoso' (In search of the lost flavours of Spinoso), on the other hand, takes place in the alleyways of the village of the same name and is a very characteristic event dedicated to traditional Lucanian dishes accompanied by tastings of local wines. There is also a festival dedicated to Canestrato di Moliterno cheese (in Moliterno, during the month of August) and a double festival in Marsicovetere of the Truffle and Prosciutto, two gastronomic excellences with flavours and aromas deeply rooted in their territory, where for centuries unique products have been born and cultivated that are able to accompany us on a beautiful journey towards our origins.
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