GROTTOLE

In the midst of the Bradano and Basento Valleys, lying on two panoramic hills, is where one will find the ancient centre of Grottole.

History

Its name derives from the Latin Cryptulae, meaning small coves or grottoes which are scattered over the hills of the habitation; local craftsmen utilise them as work areas for pottery production. This type of production was already famous during ancient times as demonstrated by finds carried out in the surrounding territory.
A tomb from the Hellenistic age and Roman buildings brought to light in the San Domenico locality, demonstrate that the centre of ancient foundation.

It was probably a Roman fortified centre along the ancient track of Via Appia (Appian Way).

The Longobard Prince Siconolfo ordered construction of the defensive towers, first nucleus of the Castle (851).
During 1061, it was taken by the Norman Guglielmo Braccio di Ferro and not long after, it was assigned to the Counts Loffredo of Matera.
It was then a fief of the following families; Avanello, Marchesano, Lauria, Monteforte, Orsini, Caracciolo, Spinelli and finally Sanseverino.

In 1799 it adhered to Republican ideals by participating in clashes against the feudal nobility.

A visit to the City

On the summit of one of the two hills of the village, one can visit the Chiesa Madre of S. Luca and S. Guiliano, and not too far away, the square tower from the ancient Castle (IX century).
The San Rocco Church (XVI century), in the lower part of the village, preserves a statue and wooden Choir.

An interesting and curious visit is that to the “Grotticelle” (Small coves/grottos) of local craftsmen.

At 13 kilometres from Grottole, one can visit the 14th century Sant’Antonio Sanctuary immersed in the green woods of Fosso Magno.

Place of interest

The Castle (841); Chiesa Madre of S.S. Luca and Giuliano; S. Maria La Grotta or San Rocco Church (XVI century); S. Antonio Sanctuary (12 kms, ‘300s).

GROTTOLE
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Basilicata region of Italy
 

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