Montescaglioso is one of the treasures of Basilicata. This town close to Matera falls within the historical and natural archaeological area of the Parco delle Chiese rupestri del Materano, since 1993 a World Heritage Site together with the Sassi of Matera.

The importance of this townrevolves around the Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo (1079), the most remarkable of the four monastic complexes that have earned Montescaglioso also the definition of “City of Monasteries”.

The proximity to the sea and to Matera make it a strategic point in summer and winter, to combine relaxing moments with interesting cultural visits outside the country, to discover the Lucanian territory and its versatile nuances.

Montescaglioso hosts some interesting events such as the historical re-enactment “La Cavalcata del Borbone” and “The Procession of the Mysteries” in the Holy Week, but equally engaging are cultural and musical events such as “Gezziamoci”, and then “La Notte” dei Cucibocca “, a singular event that coincides with the day of the Epiphany.

Cycling in its historic center allows you to admire every corner of the alleys and historic doors, but one of the most interesting architecture of Montescaglioso, in addition to the Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo (1079) is certainly represented by the Norman castle (XI century) erected to control the Porta Maggiore, the most important of the six accesses to the city.

Moreover, the presence of diversified natural areas around the territory of Montescaglioso offer the right dimension to lovers of greenery and outdoor activities.