Brindisi Montagna between the Castle and Grancia

Brindisi Montagna brings together the history of its castle and churches with Parco della Grancia and its nature and theatrical attractions. This gives you a choice of different focuses for your trip: historic sites, a large-scale theatrical production, or the park’s flora and fauna. Local produce and dishes also offer a glimpse of the area’s character.

Castello Fittipaldi and the town’s history

Castello Fittipaldi stands prominently above the Valle del Basento and the town of Brindisi Montagna. Its presence is documented in an act by Frederick II concerning the maintenance of the royal castles built by the Normans. The castrum Brundesii de Montana was also included in the list of 29 royal castles issued by Frederick II. These references place the town’s history in the context of the Norman castles and the royal domain.

The local churches, too, reflect different historical periods. The Chiesa Madre di San Nicola di Bari was completed around 1627. Today’s church of Maria SS. delle Grazie dates back to a chapel whose construction was decided upon in 1595 and which was dedicated to Santa Maria Mater Misericordiae. The Cappella di San Vincenzo is probably the oldest building in Brindisi Montagna after the castle. During Holy Week, it is the destination of various religious events. For those interested in sacred history, its architectural history is connected with a religious tradition.

Parco della Grancia: history and performances

Parco della Grancia was established on 23 June 2000 in the Grancia state forest near Brindisi di Montagna. La Grancia originates from an old abbey dedicated to Santa Maria dell’Acqua Calda and named after a thermal spring. Local mothers used the spring until the mid-20th century. The park’s history therefore encompasses both its landscape and the site’s former religious use.

La Storia Bandita combines musical, film and theatrical elements in a multimedia folk-theatre production. It depicts rural society and banditry in Basilicata and southern Italy between 1799 and 1861. The performance lasts about an hour and a half and features 300 performers on a stage area of more than 25,000 square metres. Information about the production may change; check whether it is scheduled for your visit before you travel. La Falconeria offers a different historical focus: this 45-minute live theatre performance brings to life medieval hunting practices from the time of Frederick II.

Activities and practical planning

A guided excursion in Parco della Grancia focuses on the park’s flora and fauna. Availability may depend on the season; check in advance if you plan to take the tour. La Fattoria didattica welcomes school and other groups to introduce them to the lives of grazing animals, rural work and the origins of agricultural produce. Group arrangements may need to be made in advance. I Laboratori del miele cover each step, from collecting nectar through the preservation and processing of honey to its distribution.

To reach Parco della Grancia, take the SS 407 Basentana/E847 and the exit towards Grancia. Road conditions and signage may change; check for updates before setting out. The use of a pushchair is discouraged in the park area because the terrain can make it difficult to push and maintain balance. Take this advice into account when planning your visit.

Regional cuisine

Typical products of Brindisi Montagna include pecorino cheese, cured meats, lamb and kid. Le manate is a typical local dish: homemade pasta with local sausage. Alongside history and nature, these local products and a regional pasta speciality offer distinct culinary points of interest.

Discover more destinations: Venosa, Latronico, Nemoli, Vaglio Basilicata, Gallicchio, Rapolla, Potenza, Corleto Perticara

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