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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Potenza.
Potenza is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, from winding streets and picturesque piazzas to mouth-watering cuisine and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.
With so much to explore, you’ll find yourself lost in its charm and entranced by its beauty at every turn.
So, take a step into this ancient city and let its magic pull you in.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Potenza:
1. San Gerardo Cathedral
San Gerardo Cathedral is a magnificent Roman Catholic church in the heart of Potenza, the capital of Basilicata region in Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral, which fuses elements of Romanesque and Baroque styles. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings and sculptures, including a majestic marble altar.
Make sure to visit the crypt, which houses the tomb of San Gerardo, the patron saint of the city.
Don’t miss: The splendid façade of the cathedral, which features a majestic portal and a rose window surrounded by intricate decorations.
Insider travel tips: – The cathedral is open daily, except during religious services.
2. Palazzo Loffredo
Palazzo Loffredo is a historic building located in the heart of Potenza, in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of the palace, including its ornate facade and grand staircase. The palace also houses the Provincial Archaeological Museum of Potenza, which exhibits artifacts from the ancient Greek city of Heraclea.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Palazzo Loffredo is the stunning frescoed ceiling in the central hall, which depicts scenes from classical mythology. This masterpiece was created by the local artist Raffaele De Vico in the mid-18th century.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
3. Villa Comunale
A public park in the heart of Potenza, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic or a bike ride, take in the beautiful views of the city below.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque sunsets.
Insider travel tips: Bring a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in this tranquil park. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take in some fresh air.
Keep in mind that the park can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.
4. Church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro
The Church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro is a religious building that dates back to the 12th century located in the historic center of Potenza, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the unique architectural features of this circular church, dedicated to the Holy Sepulchre, which was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
The interior features beautiful frescoes and 18th-century altars.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the stone sculpture of the Dead Christ, by local sculptor Antonio Caggiano, located near the entrance of the church.
Also, the crypt underneath the church houses the remains of the noble families of Potenza, and displays interesting archaeological finds.
Insider travel tips: – Check the opening hours in advance, as the church can be closed on certain days.
5. National Archaeological Museum of Basilicata
The National Archaeological Museum of Basilicata in Potenza is a museum that showcases the archaeological finds in the region of Basilicata, located in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The museum has over 3,000 square metres of exhibit space, displaying artifacts from the prehistoric era, the Classical and Hellenistic periods, and the Middle Ages.
Among the objects on display are rare pottery, bronzes, jewellery, and a large collection of grave goods.
Don’t miss: The most significant exhibits in the museum are the finds from the ancient Greek city of Metaponto, which was one of the most important colonies of Magna Graecia in southern Italy.
The museum houses the remains of monumental temples, vases, pottery, statuary, and other objects like coins, tools, and weapons.
Insider travel tips: – Consider hiring a guide to make the most of your visit to the museum.
6. Palazzo del Governo
Palazzo del Governo is a historic building located in the heart of Potenza, the capital city of the Basilicata region in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the majestic neoclassical architecture of the building from the outside or take a guided tour inside.
The interior boasts several beautifully decorated rooms, including the ornate Sala del Trono, or Throne Room, which is adorned with frescoes and gilt furnishings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the panoramic terrace, located on the top floor of the building. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding city and countryside.
Insider travel tips: – The Palazzo del Governo is still used as a government building, so be sure to check ahead of time for any closures or limited visiting hours.
7. Chiesa di San Francesco
Chiesa di San Francesco is a beautiful church located in the southern Italian city of Potenza.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Baroque architecture and intricate decorations of the church’s interior.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the high altar, which was sculpted by Francesco Solimena and depicts the Madonna and Child with Saints Francis and Clare.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to visit during one of the church’s regular services to experience the peaceful atmosphere and hear the choir’s beautiful singing.
8. Church of San Michele Arcangelo
The Church of San Michele Arcangelo is a beautiful and imposing church located in the heart of Potenza, the capital city of the Basilicata region in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors to the church can admire its impressive façade, which combines medieval and baroque styles. Inside, the church boasts high ceilings and fine frescoes, as well as a stunning marble altar.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the church is the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, which is decorated with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible.
Visitors can also admire the large canvas painting of the Archangel Michael defeating the Devil.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located in a pedestrianized area, so visitors are recommended to park their car in one of the nearby parking garages.
9. Palazzo del Sedile
Historic government building in Potenza, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Baroque façade and ornate interiors of the Palazzo del Sedile. The building currently houses the Potenza City Council and other government offices but is open to the public for visits.
Don’t miss: The magnificent Sala delle Conferenze (Conference Room) with its magnificent frescoes and the Sala dei Giurati (Jury Room) with its beautiful coffered ceiling.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Palazzo del Sedile early in the morning to avoid crowds and to get the best lighting for photographs. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets around the building can be steep and uneven.
10. Palazzo Santomasi
Palazzo Santomasi is a historic palace located in the heart of Potenza, Italy.
What to see or do: Visit the magnificent palace and admire the intricate Baroque details on its facade. Inside, you’ll find several rooms decorated with frescoes and stucco works that transport you back in time.
Take a stroll through the elegant gardens that surround the palace and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the breathtaking quadratura in the ceiling of the main hall, which depicts a scene from Greek mythology.
Additionally, the palace houses a significant art collection, including works from the Neapolitan School and 16th-century Flemish tapestries.
Insider travel tips: – On the first Sunday of every month, admission to the palace is free, but it tends to get crowded.
11. Piazza Matteotti
Piazza Matteotti is the main square in the city of Potenza, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: The square showcases stunning views of the surrounding mountains and has numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Italian food.
You can also visit the nearby Palazzo della Prefettura, the Town Hall and the Provincial Archaeological Museum which are all located around the square.
Don’t miss: One of the most significant features of the square is the Palazzo del Governo, which has a neoclassical facade and is currently the seat of the regional government.
Another must see is the gorgeous fountain located in the heart of the square.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the evening when the square comes alive with street musicians and performers.
Try some of the local delicacies like ‘Lucanica’ sausage and ‘Aglianico’ red wine at one of the many restaurants in the area.
12. Church of San Giovanni Battista
The Church of San Giovanni Battista is a historic church located in the heart of the city of Potenza, Italy. It is known for its Baroque architecture and beautiful frescoes.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the ornate façade of the church with its decorative sculptures and intricate stonework. Inside, there are several chapels with beautiful Baroque decorations and frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible.
There is also a splendid organ from the eighteenth century.
Don’t miss: Make sure you take a close look at the beautiful frescoes that adorn the vaulted ceilings of the church. The work is truly stunning and offers a glimpse into the talents of the artists of the Baroque period.
Insider travel tips: Take time to explore the historic center of Potenza, as there are many other beautiful churches, palaces, and museums that are worth seeing.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the streets of the city can be steep and winding.
Finally, if you are visiting in the summer, bring a hat and plenty of water, as it can get quite hot during the day.
13. Castle of Potenza
The Castle of Potenza is a magnificent medieval fortress located in the city of Potenza, in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive stone walls, towers, and ramparts, which date back to the 12th century.
The castle also houses the National Archaeological Museum of Basilicata, where you can discover prehistoric and ancient artifacts from the region.
Don’t miss: Be sure to climb to the top of the castle’s tallest tower to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special exhibits and events.
14. Church of Santa Lucia al Monte
Church of Santa Lucia al Monte is a beautiful church located in the heart of Potenza, a city in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: The church of Santa Lucia al Monte is a fine example of Baroque architecture that boasts beautiful frescoes, ornate statues, and stunning artwork.
Its interior features a single nave and a dome, with richly decorated chapels that are dedicated to different saints.
Visitors can admire the intricate detailing of the church’s architecture and its stunning ceiling frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful altar piece, a masterpiece by artist Francesco Solimena, which depicts the life of St.
Lucia.
Also, be sure to take a peek at the church’s adjoining convent, which is now home to the Provincial Archaeological Museum of Potenza.
Insider travel tips: If you are visiting the Church of Santa Lucia al Monte, consider timing your visit with one of the weekly masses held there.
The church is also open for guided tours, which provide insight into its rich history and architecture. Visitors should also note the dress code and ensure that they are dressed modestly before entering the church.