Nova Siri
Let's Discover Nova Siri: A Journey to Discover a Charming Lucanian Commune
Nova Siri, a small commune in Basilicata with just over 6,700 inhabitants, is divided into two parts: Nova Siri paese and Nova Siri Marina. Located on the Ionian coast, it extends over a sea-mountain strip, with a south-north direction, and is characterized by its significant geo-environmental differences.
Physical Geography
Territory
The municipal territory of Nova Siri rises 355 meters above sea level in the extreme southeastern part of the province of Matera, bordering the southeastern part of the province of Potenza and the northeastern part of the province of Cosenza. There are three distinct sectors: maritime, hilly, and low-mountain.
The maritime territory includes a coastal strip of about three kilometers, overlooking the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea. The sandy coast is rich in natural dunes on which Ammophila arenaria grows and thrives, in union with other maritime plants. Furthermore, pine forests and eucalyptus trees are present, the latter planted in recent times.
What to Visit
Beaches
Nova Siri is known mainly for its beautiful beaches, including the striking Lido di Pompo beach. It is a sandy beach with crystal clear sea that extends for about a kilometer. Don't miss the Ciannello beach, located inside a protected bay and surrounded by lush vegetation.
Natural Reserves
The area surrounding Nova Siri is characterized by the presence of several natural reserves, including the Toccacielo WWF reserve, a wildlife reserve where some birds common in the Mediterranean basin find refuge.
Historical and Cultural Heritage
Nova Siri also offers an interesting historical and cultural heritage. In the historic center of the town, you can admire the baroque churches of San Rocco and Santa Caterina. Don't miss the Norman Castle, of which only a few traces remain today, and the Lacco Tower, located in the Laccata district and considered a work of Byzantine military engineering.
What to Eat
Nova Siri is known mainly for its traditional cuisine based on local products. Don't miss the Nova Siri sausage, a salami made with ground pork and spices; the lumachella, a snail soup with vegetables; and the scapecchia, a sort of frittata with potatoes, onions, and cheese.
Conclusions
Nova Siri is an enchanting place to spend your holidays or a short trip out of town. With its beaches, natural reserves, historical and cultural heritage, and traditional cuisine, it represents an ideal destination for all those who want to discover the beauties of Basilicata and the Ionian coast.
