Ancient buildings that date back to a bygone age overlook a landscape that seems to have stopped. In the province of Potenza there is a village medieval of four thousand inhabitants that encloses within its walls so much history and many traditions. For those who have never been there or for those who have been passing through those parts and have not yet visited it, we are talking about the village of Brienza. Between ancient houses and the old fortress that overlooks the whole area is this medieval village, where, it is said, Lombards, Normans and Angevins lived.
Brienza, a bit of history and its Castle
It is said that the ancient part of this village was inhabited by the Lombards. In fact, the Caracciolo Castle is the building that dates back to the eighth-ninth century after Christ. The Normans and the Angevins also inhabited it. It was the latter who built the semicircular towers. The castle of which now there are only the ruins, it is said, had 365 rooms. It featured theaters, ballrooms, chapels, reading rooms, kitchens, laundries, an armory. In the Middle Ages it was a real stronghold: in fact, to protect it there were houses leaning against each other, a valid defense from possible enemy attacks. Unfortunately, little remains today: the site was damaged by an earthquake in the 1857s and then in the XNUMXs. Its history is linked to the Caracciolo family, who remained owners of the fief and the castle until XNUMX.
An important recovery project started over time: brought to light and recovered the original floors. You will also find various statues in local hard stone. There are many historical re-enactments that allow you to admire the site and protect it.
Where it is
The village is located on the border between Potenza and Matera at 713 meters above sea level. It is located in the central-western part of the province of Potenza, in Basilicata. The ancient part of the city is located on the fortress of Brienza. In the inhabited area, however, there are houses built in the modern age. The charm of this village is contained in its ancient area. In fact it is considered among the most suggestive villages of Lucania and the South. Awarded in 2005, by Decree of the President of the Republic Ciampi, the title of "City".
What can be admired in Brienza
This medieval village which contains all its charm in the old part, has a lot to offer. The church of San Michele, built in 1300, can be visited in via San Michele dei Greci. And again the ancient church of Santa Maria Assunta, dated between 1100 and 1200. The religious building has three naves and 10 altars dedicated to the saints. And again the Church of the Annunziata which dates back to 1571. The Church of the Santissimo Crocifisso, dated in 1237 and is a small building with a single nave which preserves some frescoes from the 1700s inside.
The recovery project
A ministerial project was launched to protect and enhance this village. It foresees that the Castle of Brienza and the ancient heart of the Burgentine center will become a "Monumental and cultural park of the medieval village of the Caracciolo Castle of ancient Brienza". The goal is precisely the restoration, consolidation and enhancement for the use of the entire restricted area, to make the park open and usable. And also to encourage the project of the historic center called "Brienza City of art".
What can you taste
Not just artistic beauties. Those who go to visit Brienza can taste the typical dishes. From fusilli, ravioli and orecchiette strictly homemade with meat sauces, or locally produced vegetable and legume soups. Among the main courses the meat of lamb, kid, game hunted in the Burgundy woods. And again mushrooms and the black truffle of Brienza, locally produced cheeses, sausages, pancetta, bacon.
The images are taken from the Facebook page of the Municipality of Brienza
