Roccagloriosa: Archaeology, Alleyways and Panoramic Views

Roccagloriosa combines a multilayered local history with a historic centre whose narrow paths and elevated position open up far-reaching views across the landscape. Between archaeological remains, churches from different centuries and the Capitenali-La Scala nature trail, it offers a destination for anyone wishing to discover southern Italy attentively and without haste.

Archaeology between Settlement and Necropolis

The Lucanian settlement of Roccagloriosa was founded in the 5th century BC and abandoned in the 3rd century BC. Tomb 6 at La Scala offers a particularly revealing insight into the necropolis: it is the oldest tomb in the necropolis of Roccagloriosa and contains an exceptional assemblage of bronze objects made in Etruscan-Campanian workshops. The “Antonella Fiammenghi” Civic Archaeological Museum preserves materials from the necropolises, the settlement and the sacred areas of Roccagloriosa. The “Sabato Balbi” Antiquarium displays finds from excavations at the site; monumental tombs from the La Scala necropolis are also exhibited there, including Tombs 19 and 24.

Historic Centre with Expansive Views

Between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC, the Centro Storico was given a defensive ring built from limestone blocks, beyond which the necropolis was located. Today, narrow alleyways, steep stairways and vaulted passages shape the historic centre. They open onto viewpoints overlooking the Gulf of Policastro, Monte Bulgheria and the valleys of the Mingardo and Bussento. The ruins of Roccagloriosa Castle stand at the highest point of the town and complete this distinctive townscape.

Churches and Works of Art in the Town

The religious buildings also span several historical periods. The Church of S. Giovanni Battista, located in the historic centre, was founded in 1101 by Prince Ruggero. The Church of the Confraternita del Rosario preserves a cycle of frescoes from the late 16th century. The Church of San Mercurio houses a wooden crucifix from the first half of the 16th century. The Cappella del SS. Sacramento, also known as S. Angelo, preserves 17th-century frescoes depicting the Nativity, the Sacrifice of Isaac, Saint Francis and Saint Catherine. The archaeological museum is housed in the former Church of Santa Maria dei Martiri.

Walking Trail on Monte Bulgheria

The Capitenali-La Scala nature trail crosses Monte Bulgheria and reaches the necropolis of Fistelia. The trail is considered suitable for walks by families with children, older people and people with disabilities. It therefore combines landscape and archaeology.

Feast Day and Weekly Market

Two local events are part of the picture of Roccagloriosa and can help with planning your visit: the feast day of the patron saint San Giovanni Battista is celebrated on 24 June, and the weekly market takes place on Tuesdays. Those choosing a hotel or another type of accommodation can tailor their stay to different interests – the town’s archaeological history, religious art, walks on Monte Bulgheria or the market atmosphere in the town.

You can find more destinations for your trip to Italy here: Pagani, Morigerati, Magazzeno, Cosentini, Eboli, Scario, Erchie, Campagna.

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