Where we are

 

Urban79 is an apartment located in the historic center of Bernalda, a charming town located on a hill in the Metapontino area. The Ionian coast with its main seaside resorts is only 15 minutes away by car. For those who love culture and history it will be possible to reach the splendid city of Matera just 40 minutes by car, and the city of Taranto with its swing bridge just 30 minutes away. Our mission is to welcome people with pleasant vacation moments and memories. Our strengths are: first class apartment and genuine hospitality.

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

Bernalda and  surroundings

 

 

Located in the heart of the Ionian coast, a stone’s throw from the splendid beaches of Metaponto, Bernalda is a fascinating medieval village located in the province of Matera. Especially in the summer season, Bernalda is definitely a must for anyone who decides to visit Basilicata. However, the area is not appreciated by tourists only for the crystal clear sea. In fact, the Metaponto wood extends between the mouths of the Bradano and Basento rivers, a large 240-hectare nature reserve, ideal for hiking or cycling. Sea, nature and history. Yes, because in the surroundings of the village you can discover an archaeological park where the remains of the Greek colony founded around the second half of the 7th century BC are preserved.

In addition to the sea, culture and archeology, in this fascinating area you can also indulge in various sports activities. From golf to sailing, from canoeing to windsurfing, without forgetting diving in the clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

 

What can you  see in Bernalda? Let’s start with a walk through the historic center

The ancient village of Bernalda extends from the Aragonese castle, home to the art gallery, up to the Mother Church and Piazza San Bernardino. For a visit, you cannot fail to start from the historic center: getting lost in the narrow and tiled alleys of Bernalda can in fact turn into an almost mystical experience. Passing in front of the doors of the low houses, which are very reminiscent of the Apulian historical centers of the Valle d’Itria, which is not far away, one can perceive the aromas of the typical dishes of the place and listen to the conversations, often heated, of the inhabitants of the village. Walking you reach the panoramic point located between the Castle and the Church of San Bernardino. The panorama, overlooking the Basento valley, is one that leaves you breathless.
Immergersi nel centro storico di Bernalda è sicuramente una delle tante cose da dover fare

Visit the Bernalda Castle

Another obligatory stop among the things to see in Bernalda, certainly its castle. Built in 1470 at the behest of Bernardino de Bernaudo, secretary of King Alfonso II of Naples, it has a rectangular shape with three corner towers (the missing one was destroyed following the expansion wanted by the Perez Navarrete). In 1999 the Castle was purchased by the Municipality of Bernalda, but unfortunately it is not always open to the public. During the year, various events are organized by the administration which include guided tours, also in collaboration with the FAI.

l castello di Bernalda dall'alto

Visit the Mother Church of San Bernardino

Dedicated to the patron saint of Bernalda, San Bernardino da Siena, the church is located in the homonymous square. The architectural lines are simple, but the impact is truly suggestive. The church was built in 1530 by Bernardino de Bernaudo; inside there is a fresco of San Bernardino with two saints, which probably dates back to the date of construction; the ancient Organ; a carved and gilded wooden pulpit; the stoup from the 1600s and the baptismal font.
Chiesa Madre di San Bernardino
Mother Church of San Bernardino

Breathe in the air of cinema  at Palazzo Margherita

Bernalda has a very strong bond with one of the most important protagonists of 20th century cinema: Francis Ford Coppola. His grandfather Agostino, in fact, was born in Bernalda. To consolidate the relationship with his roots, the director of “the Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now” bought Palazzo Margherita, a historic residence adjacent to Piazza Plebiscito, which he transformed into a 5-star resort. In addition to being the residence of the Coppola family when they return to Basilicata, the resort hosts great Hollywood personalities and tourists who want to stay in this magnificent historic home. Opposite the Palazzo there is also the CineCittà Bar, a traditional bistro covered with posters and playbills of old films, where you can drink a good coffee or taste some Lucanian specialities.

Visit the Metaponto nature reserve

For those who prefer unspoilt nature to the city, the Metaponto Nature Reserve is located a few kilometers from Bernalda, which extends for about 240 hectares along the Ionian coast of Basilicata between the mouths of the Bradano and Basento rivers. The reserve is dominated by lush Mediterranean scrub and a dense coastal pine forest of Aleppo pine, but also includes wetlands that extend as far as the coast. Two routes are also marked for excursions on foot or by bicycle: the first, shorter, which allows you to get closer to the environment of the place and its history; the second, which winds through the pine forest and reaches the sea, allows those who travel along it to get to know the various species present in the area. Both are completely flat and passable even in wheelchairs.
Un'altra cosa da vedere nei pressi di Bernalda è la la riserva naturale di Metaponto
the Metaponto nature reserve
  • Visit the Metaponto Archaeological Park It is probably the most famous attraction in the entire area, an essential stop for all those who decide to stay in this part of the Region. The archaeological area preserves the traces that marked the civil and religious life of Metaponto, from its foundation to the Roman conquest of the 3rd century BC. There are many buildings that have been identified by scholars on the basis of the remains present in the area: the antiquarium, the theatre, the city agora, the Roman castro, the necropolis. Also 4 temples: Apollo Licio, Demeter, Aphrodite and the Tavole Palatine, the temple dedicated to Hera which marked the boundaries of the ancient city. The park can be explored on foot or by bicycle and has an area equipped for refreshments. The references on the website of the Ministry of Cultur: https://www.beniculturali.it/luogo/parco-archeologico-dellarea-urbana-e-della-necropoli-di-crucinia-di-metaponto

Spend a different day at the Acquazzurra Park in Metaponto

If during your trip to Basilicata you have had your fill of sea, history and nature and maybe you want to dedicate a day to pure fun, it is not necessary to go far from Bernalda.

In fact, just outside Metaponto is Acquazzurra, a water park that covers an area of 80,000 square meters with dozens of attractions, more than 1,300 linear meters of slides that reach a height of 30 meters, the Fun Area and the Beach Area.

Here too there is no shortage of references to Magna Graecia, with a themed area of 20,000 m2, 1,500 umbrellas and 3,000 sunbeds ranging from the Kingdom of Zeus to the Kingdom of Apollo.

For info and costs: https://www.acquazzurrapark.net/

As you can read, there are many things to do and see in Bernalda and its surroundings, ranging from art to cuisine and architecture. What are you waiting for? come and spend a weekend in this magical Lucan village.

 


 

 

Bernalda’s story told by food

Gastronomy is known to be one of the key factors that attract foreign tourists to Italy. What are Bernalda’s typical products?

The typical first course is pasta with green beans and cacioricotta, dating back to the mid-twentieth century, probably, as in many cases, created to try to survive the difficulties left by the post-war period. It is prepared with black-eyed green beans to which tomato puree and cacioricotta are added.

A sagra in the hamlet of Metaponto is also dedicated to pasta with green beans and cacioricotta.

For those with a sweet tooth, Bernalda offers scorzette, which are prepared with egg white, hazelnuts and melted dark chocolate. It was created by the pastry chef Vincenzo Spinelli in the 1970s. The name derives from “scorz d’ l’arvl” (which in the local dialect means “bark of the tree”).

What to see in Bernalda

Today Bernalda has become a charming tourist destination, with six kilometers of coastline overlooking the Ionian Sea and a very characteristic historical center made up of alleyways and noble palaces. In which it is possible to appreciate, among other things:

  • the Aragonese Castle
  • the Mother Church of San Bernardino of Siena
  • San Bernardino square
  • Plebiscite Square
  • Carmine Church
  • Church of the Convent of Sant’Antonio da Padova
  • Margaret Palace

 

 

Mother Church of San Bernardino of Siena

The Mother Church of San Bernardino da Siena is characterized by the terracotta bricks that make up the building, as well as by the Byzantine domes. It houses various pictorial and decorative elements of considerable value.

The Aragonese castle

The Aragonese Castle looks down on the city, probably built by the Normans but deeply restored by the Aragonese.

The Carmelite Church

The Church of Carmine houses a large wooden crucifix from the 17th century, while the Church of the Convent of Sant’Antonio da Padova boasts a very intense 19th-century crucifix.

The Plebiscite Square

In Piazza Plebiscito it is instead possible to appreciate a garden villa surrounded by 19th-century stately buildings, historic homes of the local bourgeoisie. Finally, Palazzo Margherita, as mentioned, has acquired new luster thanks to the recent investment by Francis Ford Coppola.

Piazza Plebiscito di Bernalda
Church of the Convent of Sant’Antonio da Padova

The Church of St ‘Antonio da Padova, dating back to the 16th century, annexed to the convent of the same name – today a municipality -, is a subsidiary church of that of San Bernardino da Siena, belonging to the diocese of Irsina-Matera in Basilicata.

The structure, located in P.zza Plebiscito, following a fall of debris from the roof required a consolidation and conservative restoration which began in 2018 and ended a few months ago

What to do around Bernalda

Basilicata is a lively and dynamic land that offers many opportunities for recreation and culture.
To make your stay at Urban79 unforgettable, we invite you to discover the exclusive experiences to be enjoyed in the surroundings of the structure.
Excursions to discover nature, adventures, breathtaking views, monuments, beaches, food and wine culture and popular traditions await you season after season.

ROUTES IN NATURE

Archaeological Park of the urban area of Metaponto
Distance : 15km

A dive into the past among the ruins of Magna Graecia, immersed in the nature of the Metapontino area. A few km from the town of Metaponto, there are the remains of ancient Greek buildings that dominate the coast of Basilicata. A magical and unmissable place a stone’s throw from the village.

Basento river and the old bridge
Distance : 22km

Metapontum means “between two rivers” and from Urban79 we cannot fail to take a trip along the Basento. Between bike tours and walks, it will be wonderful to discover the legends that hide behind the natural places around Bernalda. On the old bridge it is said that many centuries ago a local lady, feudal lord of Policoro, had lost one or two children in that very crossing and therefore had built the bridge in their honour.

San Giuliano Oasis
Distance : 34.7km

Just 30 km from Urban79, we find one of the most important wetlands in Basilicata. It is the San Giuliano nature reserve, a WWF oasis thanks to the presence of a very diversified fauna, especially bird species.

Calanchiva reserve of Montalbano Ionico
Distance d: 31.2 km

Marsh forest of Policoro
Distance : 38km

A sacred forest where silence reigns and respect for the peaceful crowd of animals, especially game.

Natural Historical Archaeological Regional Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
Distance : 50km

BASILICATA COAST TO COAST: TOURIST ITINERARY

Basilicata from coast to coast.
It was Rocco Papaleo’s dream in the famous film Basilicata coast to coast, and it is a dream that Bernalda can make come true, with an itinerary that touches most of the stages traveled by the whimsical protagonists of the film.
An itinerary that perfectly narrates the peace, relaxation, nature and musicality of some of the most beautiful areas of Basilicata, which can be traveled on foot, by bike, by car, depending on the level of sportsmanship of the groups on tour.

Nine days of travel for an itinerary that goes from coast to coast, to discover one of the most characteristic regions of Italy.

DAY 1. MARATEA
Distance : 164km

It starts from the Tyrrhenian coast with Maratea, the only city in Basilicata overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and with unique peculiarities. Rocks and Mediterranean scrub cover its cliffs, also bringing with them a rich history of flavors and traditions. A few km from Maratea, there is the Borgo of Castrocucco, an enchanting place on the border with Calabria, already a Site of Community Interest (SIC).

To be seen:
Christ of Maratea
Caves of Wonders
Castrocucco: La Secca and the village

DAY 2. LAKE LAUDEMIO AND  MONTE SIRINO 
Distance : 139km

An all-natural path begins which in Basilicata alternates between mountains, lakes and rivers, and embraces all those typical historical and culinary tradition areas. With Monte Papa we are in the highest part of the Lucanian Apennines, a National Park not to be missed.

To be seen:
Top of Monte Papa
Lake Laudemio

DAY 3. POLLINO PARK
Distance : 143km

Between height differences, unspoilt nature and culinary excellence to try, a trek on Monte Pollino of at least 6 hours is a must for a tourist itinerary that embraces the entire expanse of Lucania. You absolutely must try the Flight of the Eagle, a top attraction for the youngest, and a visit to the Timpe di Terranova del Pollino, to enjoy the beauty of the rocky landscape.

To be seen:
Top of Mount Pollino
Viggianello
Pollino Newfoundland

To do:
A lunch at the Luna Rossa starred restaurant

DAY 4. PERTUSILLO LAKE
Distance : 83km

The incredible natural journey continues with a visit to Lake Pertusillo.
Our itinerary deserves to continue with the arrival in Viggiano, a town near the natural park, with an inevitable visit to the archaeological excavations of Grumentum and the Black Madonna.

To be seen:
Tramutola Fountain
Sanctuary of the Black Madonna

PLACES NOT TO BE MISSED

Basilicata is a region with a deeply rooted ancient history, an authentic land bathed by two seas, which sees in its hinterland the alternation of different landscapes: from the stones of Matera to the Lucanian dolomites, from the paradisiacal beaches of the Metapontino to the gullies, up to arrive at those mountain areas that offer a wonderful variety of natural attractions.
Different landscapes for different holidays: when we ask ourselves what to see in Basilicata, here is a tour of the top 10 tourist destinations around Bernalda.

PISTICCI
Red roofs and the history of Amaro Lucano in the valleys of the Calanchi: Pisticci offers views not to be missed.

METAPONTO

Mediterranean scrub, golden beaches and archeology: Metaponto is an oasis to be experienced, with nature and its parks, and its ancient history immersed in naturalistic glimpses.

TRICARICO

One of the most important medieval historical centers of Basilicata, a must in a self-respecting historical tour, to discover the Arab-Norman culture that emerges among the terraced gardens and alleys of Rabata.

CRACO

A ghost town, still a destination for film tourism that gives Basilicata an even more magical atmosphere!

MATERA

It needs no introduction: the city of stones but not only. European Capital of Culture, it is a point of reference for all the historical, cultural and culinary reality of Basilicata.

GINOSA MARINA

A Blue Flag sea surrounded by parks and nature reserves to discover and suitable for all ages. Despite being the province of Taranto, therefore in fact from Puglia, Ginosa Marina is so close to the Lucanian border that we can say that it is a bit part of both regions.

PISTICCI MARINA

Exclusive charm, relaxation and aperitifs by the sea. The Pisticci marina is the perfect place to enjoy the Lucanian coast.

SAINT ALBANIAN CONSTANTINE

A meeting of ethnic groups and cultures to give rise to one of the most beautiful villages in the region.

TARANTO

Splendid city of two seas: Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande separated by the swing bridge, it offers a museum of Greek art with unique finds in the world

 

CALANCHI: A TOUR OF THE VALLEY

A western film landscape, lunar, silent, mystical, a source of inspiration for poets, painters, directors and writers who choose them for their uniqueness and beauty: they are the Calanchi, the canyons of southern Italy.

These are deep furrows in a clayey soil created by the erosive action of water. In Basilicata the centuries and atmospheric agents have transformed vast areas into authentic natural sculptures among spiers, pinnacles and deep canyons.

The arid landscapes of the Calanchi crumble forming authentic mountain systems in miniature, and find their natural perimeter in the valleys of the Sauro torrent and of the Basento and Agri rivers, offering the visitor strong and unique landscape contrasts: the harsh Calanchi, the wide wooded expanses of the the Apennines, the gentle hills of Matera and the great plains that gently slide towards the Ionian Sea which once occupied a large part of this hinterland.

This area of Basilicata has often been chosen as a suggestive natural setting for various films; among the directors who appreciated the Calanchi Lucani as a location we mention Pasolini, Tornatore, Francesco Rosi.

August in Bernalda

Why August? Because this is a beautiful moment with a mild climate   and many new activities to be carried out outdoors  such as festivals and patronal celebrations. In July with the assault of the Bruna cart in Matera, in August with the feasts of San Rocco in Pisticci and the famous historical procession of San Bernardino in Bernalda. Enjoy your time learning things you didn’t know about our cultural traditions! We think you’ll agree that the cultural offerings are impressive and intriguing. Not sure where to start? Contact our team and we will direct you!

Furthermore, on Corso Umberto you will find many bars and small clubs where live music is not lacking until late at night.

In August there are other events in the surrounding area

“A NIGHT’S DREAM… IN THAT COUNTRY” – COLOBRARO (AUGUST)

Colobraro is called, in a superstitious rather than derogatory way, “That country”. This is due to the presumed unmentionability of the word “Colobraro” due to the superstitious belief that the mere evocation of the name brings bad luck. On the basis of these beliefs, the event “A night’s dream… In that country” was born, a theatrical journey through the streets and the characteristic squares of the center that dominates the Sinni valley, in which anthropology marries the theater , magic and food and wine, bonding to the suggestions of a unique landscape.

Through some of the most evocative rituals and myths of Basilicata, Borgo San Gaetano takes you on a journey to discover the true Lucan soul. The events follow one another according to the rituals dictated by the calendar, revealing aspects and peculiarities that can only be found in this land of enchantments and memories. You are invited to be the protagonists of ancestral celebrations and festivals, discovering stories handed down from generation to generation.

In addition, there are also historical exhibitions and many other activities throughout the year.


THE NIGHT OF THE CUCIBOCCAS OF MONTESCAGLIOSO (5 JANUARY)

The mysterious protagonists of the ritual circulate through the alleys of the center wearing a dark cloak, a hat and a fake hemp beard. In their hand they carry a large needle with which they threaten to sew the mouths of children who approach curiously. The mysterious rite is repeated every year at the end of the Christmas holidays and is a sort of initiation for children to overcome fear.

MAY OF ACCEPTANCE (FROM 23 APRIL TO 18 JUNE)

After a long preparation, the tallest, thickest and straightest Turkey oak in the Montepiano wood is cut. After 8 days, it is ready to begin its journey towards the heart of Accettura where it will be raised and subsequently scaled by the “maggiaioli”, to then be demolished.

THE PARADE OF THE TURKS IN POTENZA (29/30 MAY)

The participants in the historical procession, in period costume, bring back to life from time immemorial the legendary event dating back to 1111, when a miracle of San Gerardo allowed the inhabitants of Potenza to repel the Turkish attack.

THE FESTIVAL OF THE MADONNA DELLA BRUNA IN MATERA (2 JULY)

The festival in honor of the patroness of the city of Matera takes place in a suggestive way: during the procession, the popular soul is exalted in mass jubilation and the cart accompanying the statue of the Madonna, the result of months-long craftsmanship, is attacked it’s destroyed.

 


THE LIVING NATIVITY SCENE IN THE SASSI OF MATERA (BETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND EPIPHANY)

In the splendid scenery of the Sassi, the living nativity scene of Matera allows you to become an integral part of the itinerary. In fact, each visitor has the opportunity to become a “visit-Actor”, i.e. to wear the role of a figure.

THE PATRON FESTIVAL OF SAN BERNARDINO (FROM 7 TO 27 AUGUST)

One of the most exciting festivals in Basilicata is the patronal feast of Bernalda. United by devotion to the Patron Saint, the devotees begin the festivities, including religious observance, historical re-enactment and entertainment.
For detailed information on the programme: www.festadisanbernardino.it

THE WORLD OF FEDERICO II IN LAGOPESOLE (ALL YEAR ROUND)

The castle of Lagopesole, Frederick’s place par excellence, welcomes visitors to lead them into the world of Frederick II, the narrating museum which, through modern technologies and innovative languages combined with historical research, wants to revive the myth of the Stupor Mundi.

the