Bernalda is a town and comune in the Province of Matera, in the region of Basilicata in southern Italy. With around 11,900 inhabitants, it stands among the larger towns of the province. It lies in the Ionian coastal hinterland, not far from the Metaponto plain.
At a glance
- Type
- Town and comune
- Period
- Historic town of the Matera province
- Style
- Ionian hinterland settlement
- Location
- Province of Matera, Basilicata, southern Italy
Overview
Bernalda is a town and comune in the Province of Matera, in the region of Basilicata in Italy. It has around 11,900 inhabitants. The town lies in the hinterland of the Ionian coast of Basilicata.
History
Bernalda developed as a settlement of the Matera province, in the part of Basilicata that opens toward the Ionian Sea and the historic plain of Metaponto. The wider area was settled in antiquity, with Magna Graecia colonies along the nearby coast. The town grew as a centre of the agricultural hinterland.
What you see
Bernalda has the character of a southern Italian town set in the Ionian hinterland, with a historic core overlooking the surrounding countryside. Its built fabric reflects its growth as one of the larger towns of the province. The nearby Metaponto plain and coast lie within easy reach.
Cultural significance
Bernalda is part of the cultural landscape of the Matera province and the Ionian arc of Basilicata, an area rich in classical and medieval heritage. As one of the province’s more populous towns, it is a notable centre in this part of the region.
Practical information
For current visitor information, local sites and opening hours, check the official comune website. Coordinates: 40.4126° N, 16.6906° E.
Getting there
Bernalda is reached by road from Matera and from the Ionian coastal route near Metaponto. The nearest rail and coastal connections are in the Metaponto area, with onward travel by car or local bus.
Sources & resources
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