Abriola
Discovering Abriola: geography, history, and symbols
Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about Abriola, a charming town located in the central-western part of the province of Potenza, in Basilicata. Abriola is home to 1303 people and is surrounded by Calvello and Pignola, Anzi, Tito, Marsico Nuovo, and Sasso di Castalda.
The history of Abriola dates back to the 9th century when the Saracens took possession of the territory and founded a fortified citadel. Later on, the fiefdom belonged to many prominent families, including the D'Orange, Di Sangro, Caracciolo, and finally, the Federici, who were exterminated by the band of brigands led by Domenico Rizzo, called Taccone.
Today, the town is a charming tourist destination, as there are ski slopes available in the nearby Piana del Lago for winter sports enthusiasts. The coat of arms of the municipality of Abriola was recognized by decree of the Head of government, the Prime Minister, Secretary of State on July 9, 1930, and its flag is a blue cloth.
Monuments, Churches, and Shrines
Abriola is also rich in monuments and churches, including the Mother Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Church of San Gerardo Bishop, the Sanctuary of Monteforte, the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (in the locality of Arioso), and the Ruins of Castel Glorioso (in the locality of Arioso).
Society and Culture
The demographic evolution of Abriola and the foreigners residing in the municipality are the result of its history and cultural contaminations that have enriched the territory. Indeed, as of December 31, 2019, foreigners residing in total are 24, equal to 1.75% of the population, and the most represented nationalities are Romanian and Indian.
Abriola is rich in events, including the patronal feast of Saint Valentine of Terni, priest and martyr, celebrated on February 14th and August 16th. Moreover, on the first Sunday of June and on August 15th, the Assumption of Mary into Heaven (also called Monteforte) is celebrated. The feasts of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Anne (in the localities of Arioso and Tintiera) take place on July 16th and 26th, while the feast of Saint Roch, pilgrim and confessor, is celebrated on August 16th and September 24th.
Economy and Craftsmanship
Abriola has an economy mainly based on craftsmanship, linked to peasant and pastoral culture. Among the most traditional and renowned activities are artisanal production, such as the production of cheeses, cured meats, and cotton weaving.
And with that, friends, I conclude my story about Abriola. Are you ready to visit this charming town? I assure you that you will not regret it. See you soon!
