Lagonegro

Discovering Lagonegro

Welcome to Lagonegro, a town located in the Noce Valley in the province of Potenza, in Basilicata. With its 5127 inhabitants, Lagonegro is a peaceful and welcoming place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.

A bit of geography

Lagonegro is located at an altitude of 666 meters in the southwestern part of the province, bordering the southeastern sector of the province of Salerno. The territory of the town is characterized by the presence of Mount Massiccio del Sirino, which reaches 2005 meters in height. The position of Lagonegro is very advantageous, as it is halfway between the sea and the mountains. Moreover, the area is characterized by the presence of numerous small lakes and a very varied fauna and flora.

Lagonegro: Hidden treasure of Basilicata

Origins of the name

Regarding the name of the town, there are different theories. Some topographers believe that Lagonegro is not the ancient Latin Nerulum but that it is located under the modern municipality of Castelluccio Inferiore. However, it is believed that the name Lagonegro derives from a lake formed by the Tanagro river, which was named Lagus Niger (Black Lake) due to its dark water.

Brief history of Lagonegro

The origins of the town are very ancient and mixed. It was probably founded by the Greeks who called it "Lacus Niger". In the seventh century, a community of Basilian monks of Byzantine origins settled on the castle's cliff and named it "Lacus Neruli". It was fortified over time by the Principality of Salerno and later assigned by the Normans to the County of Lauria. During the feudal period, Lagonegro was part of the Lauria County and belonged to many noble families.

Where is Lagonegro located?

Lagonegro is located in a very strategic area of Basilicata, halfway between the mountains and the sea. The town borders on the municipalities of Rivello, Nemoli, Casalbuono, Casaletto Spartano, Lauria, Tortorella, Moliterno, and Montesano sulla Marcellana. Also, thanks to good connections, it is possible to reach the municipalities of northern Calabria on the Tyrrhenian Sea's Gulf of Policastro.

Climate

The climate of Lagonegro is typical of mountainous areas. Summers are rather cool and windy, while winters are cold and humid.

In conclusion, Lagonegro is a very interesting town to visit if you are looking for a peaceful place close to nature. The presence of mountains, small lakes, and a very rich fauna and flora make Lagonegro a unique and breathtaking place. If you have the opportunity, do not miss the chance to visit this wonderful town.

Antonio Bruno
Wrote by Antonio Bruno
Updated Wednesday, Jan 12, 2022