Potenza

Potenza is the regional capital and one of Italy's highest cities, perched on a mountain ridge at about 820 meters. It blends a lively historic center with a vibrant local culture and the famous Carnival of Potenza.

Things to do

• Walk Via Pretoria — Potenza's main pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings.
• Visit the Cathedral of San Gerardo — The patron saint's cathedral dates to the 12th century and houses important artworks.
• Attend the Settembre Lucano festival — A September folklore festival celebrating regional culture with parades and music.
• Explore the National Archaeological Museum — Showcases finds from ancient Lucanian settlements and Greek colonies.
• Ride the city escalators — Potenza's famous outdoor escalators connect the lower town to the hilltop center.

Food to try

• Lucanica sausage — The ancient pork sausage from which the word 'sausage' (lucanica) originates, spiced with fennel and chili.
• Strascinati al ragù — Hand-dragged pasta with a rich slow-cooked pork and tomato sauce.
• Rafanata — A savory frittata made with horseradish, eggs, and pecorino cheese, typical of Carnival.
• Cannaricoli — Crunchy fried dough treats flavored with anise or orange zest, eaten at Carnival time.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the Carnival spirit — Potenza's Carnival is one of southern Italy's most exuberant; join locals for parades in late February.
• Greet shopkeepers personally — A simple 'buongiorno' when entering any shop is considered polite and essential etiquette.
• Expect mountain weather — Even in summer, evenings in Potenza can be cool due to the high altitude; bring a layer.