This small region is bordered by two seas:
to the southwest is the Tyrrhenian, with the rocky coast
of Maratea, splendid pearl surrounded by mountains and nature;
to the southeast is the Ionian, with long sandy beaches
stretching for 30 km, from Metaponto to Nova Siri. This
coastline borders a fertile plain, rich in fruit groves
and archaeological digs from the periods of Greek colonization.
The sea in Basilicata is among the cleanest in Italy.
It
is still easy in the Metaponto area to advance into the
thickets and come out on a semi-deserted, dream beach, just
a few minutes away from the more crowded lidos. The Maratea
coast, a little marine paradise, is noted for its numerous
small secluded beaches and rocky cliffs. One can easily
swim from May to October and there is no shortage of occasions
for water sports. There are boating trips that leave from
Maratea everyday, as well as sailing classes organized by
groups from Policoro and
Metaponto, and there are
ample opportunities for fishing.
The land along the Ionian coast, is a must see for those
passionate about archaeology. For it is here that the first
Greek colonies were established, in the 8th.century B.C.,
creating such places as the polis of Magna Grecia –
and the towns of Metaponto,
Nova Siri, and Policoro,
and giving birth to a prosperous and blossoming culture,
which is still present today. This presence can be seen
not only in the names of these places, but also in the traditions,
food and dialects. The beautifully preserved archaeological
sites bear witness to the great heritage of this
area.
