Ripacandida
Discover Ripacandida, the pearl of Basilicata
If you are looking for a peaceful and nature-immersed location where you can enjoy good wine and breathe in history, then we recommend visiting Ripacandida. This quiet and picturesque municipality, with just under 1600 inhabitants, is located in the province of Potenza, in Basilicata.
Territory
Ripacandida is situated on a hill in the Vulture-Melfese hilly area south of the Ofanto River, at the foot of the volcanic massif of Mount Vulture. This area is well-known for the cultivation of "Aglianico" grapes, which are used to produce the renowned Aglianico del Vulture wine.
The picturesque town of Ripacandida is immersed in a green hilly landscape, offering enchanting natural scenery. The town hall is located in the highest point of the town, which corresponds to the famous Piazza del Popolo, situated at 622m above sea level. The minimum altitude in the Ripacandida territory is 397m above sea level in Piano dell'Altare, while the maximum is 976m above sea level in Serra Cocuzza. The fraction of Serra San Francesco is located at 657m above sea level.
Climate
The climate in Ripacandida is typical of a high mountain area, giving it a fresh and pure air. In summer, temperatures range from 25.2 to 6.8°C in winter. Thanks to its breathtaking views, you can enjoy moments of meditation and silence in the peace of nature.
History of Ripacandida
The name Ripacandida dates back to Roman times when the municipality was known as "Candida Latinorum" due to the white color of the hill on which the town is located. The most accepted version of the name, however, refers to the candid whiteness of the white hill.
According to historical sources, during the Angevin period, the city was called "Castrum Ripe Candide", while in 1283, under the rule of Lorenzo Lufolo, it became "Ripǣcandidǣ" or "Ripǣ Candidǣ".
The origins of Ripacandida date back to the 7th century BC, as evidenced by an archaeological investigation carried out between 1977 and 1980. The antiquity of the place is also demonstrated by the remains of a Roman aqueduct and mosaic pavements at the foot of Ripacandida.
The modern town, on the other hand, dates back to the Gothic Wars (535-553), when the inhabitants of the valley moved to the hill and built their houses around the temple dedicated to Jupiter, now known as the Church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro.
What to see in Ripacandida
Despite the ancient history and meditative atmosphere of Ripacandida, there are plenty of things to see and do in the streets of the historic center and beyond.
The Church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro is an architectural masterpiece and an ancient place of worship. According to legend, the temple was built by the Lombards on the ruins of an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter and was consecrated to the relics of Saint Mary, whose tomb was located in the church.
The Church of San Giovanni Battista, on the other hand, dates back to the 12th century AD and is one of the most suggestive and ancient places of worship in Lucania.
For those who love hiking, the Archaeological Park of Serra di Vaglio, an archaeological park located a few kilometers from Potenza, offers an unforgettable sight thanks to the remains of the ancient Roman and Lombard civilizations that dominated Basilicata.
Finally, you can't miss the tasting of the delicious Aglianico del Vulture wine, produced in Ripacandida thanks to the cultivation of local vineyards.
Conclusion
Ripacandida is a small pearl of Basilicata that offers a meditative atmosphere and the enchantment of nature. Thanks to its historic town center and unique geographical location, it represents an unmissable destination for all those who love beauty, history, and tranquility.
