Viggianello
Welcome to Viggianello!
Hello everyone! Today I want to tell you about Viggianello, a municipality in the province of Potenza in Basilicata, located at the foot of the Pollino massif, in the Mercure valley. With its 2686 inhabitants, Viggianello is a characteristic and full of history town. Are you ready to discover more about its origin?
History of Viggianello
The first evidence speaks of a Castrum Byanelli, a Roman garrison on the Via Appia. In fact, the toponym derives from the Roman possessive gentilic Vibianus, diminutive of Vibius. In the Bolla di Alfano di Salerno, archbishop of Salerno, dated 1079, the toponym known today as Viggianello is mentioned for the first time.
The toponym Vineanellum would have indicated the particular dedication of the Viggianello agricultural land, which at the time was characterized by the lack of vineyards. Later, the name of the town gradually transformed from Byanellum to Byanelli, from Vincianelli to Vingianello, until it reached its current name.
The origins of the town are uncertain, but it is believed that it was founded by refugees following the destruction of Sibari or the turmoil of the Punic Wars, becoming, according to Livy, a Roman stronghold on the Via Capua-Regium. Other sources speak of the first settlements of Basilian monks dating back to the tenth century: the monastic Eparchy of Mercurion promoted here an incisive process of humanization and evangelization whose testimonies - Ipogeo and Eremo - are still present on the municipal territory.
In any case, human presence in the area consolidated with the arrival of the Romans, who built a castrum on the hill of Viggianello to contain and block the Lucanian populations who were about to conquer the area. The Lombards and the Byzantines replaced the Romans, and the hill of Viggianello, as a seat of castrum, became a kastrion, that is, a fortified place inhabited by farmers.
The geography of Viggianello
Viggianello is located at the foot of the Pollino massif, the largest mountain range of the southern Apennines, and is part of the Mercure valley. The Lao river originates in its territory. The area is characterized by the presence of unspoiled nature and a very varied flora and fauna.
Places to visit
Viggianello is a town rich in places to visit. One of the most interesting is undoubtedly the Hermitage of San Michele Arcangelo, considered one of the most important and evocative monastic complexes in Basilicata. This is the only example in Basilicata of a "rock monastery", consisting of a chapel, refectory, dormitory, and small chapter room.
Another place of great interest is certainly the Castle of Viggianello, located on the top of the hill. The castle was built in the twelfth century to protect the surrounding area from the bandits who infested the area. Today, only some parts of the walls and a tower remain, but despite this, the panoramic view that can be enjoyed is priceless.
Unique aspects of the Viggianello territory are the Ipogei. There are many archaeological sites of this type present throughout the municipal territory, excavated in sandstone rock. They can date back to a very ancient era and represent a system of tunnels, caves, and rooms dug into the mountain, where one can perceive the sensation of sinking into the abysses of the earth.
Finally, we cannot fail to mention the Pollino National Park, which also embraces the territory of Viggianello. The park features breathtaking landscapes, with rivers, forests, and mountains that rise up to 2000 meters. It is possible to go on various excursions, ranging from those that are demanding and reserved for the most experienced to those that are more peaceful and suitable for the whole family.
The culture and traditions of Viggianello
Viggianello is a town that strongly preserves its traditions. In many periods of the year, in fact, it is possible to attend festivals and fairs that celebrate the cult of religion, but also the local culture.
Among the most important events, we mention the patronal feast of Santa Barbara, which is celebrated on December 4th, with a lively procession and a large procession. In addition, in June the feast of San Michele Arcangelo, the patron saint of the town, is celebrated, while in July the Sagra del Fungo (Mushroom Festival) is held, during which it is possible to taste the typical specialties of local culture.
Conclusions
Here is the history, culture, and places to visit of Viggianello. This town in the province of Potenza awaits you with its unspoiled nature, its historical sites, and its still-living traditions. What are you waiting for to come and discover it?
