Basilicata’s short Ionian coast was once part of Magna Graecia, the Greek world of southern Italy. Metaponto, ancient Metapontion, was founded by Greek settlers in the seventh century BC and became a rich city; tradition says that Pythagoras spent his last years here. Its best-known monument is the Tavole Palatine, the standing columns of a temple to Hera.
To the south, Policoro stands on the site of ancient Herakleia, and its National Museum of the Siritide holds outstanding finds. Between and around them stretch long sandy beaches backed by pine woods, with family resorts at Metaponto Lido and Lido di Policoro. Inland, Bernalda is a handsome town with a link to the Coppola family.
Highlights
- Tavole Palatine: fifteen Doric columns in the countryside.
- Metaponto archaeological park: temples, agora and theatre area.
- Museums: the national museums of Metaponto and the Siritide.
- Beaches: wide sand and shallow water, good for families.
- Bosco Pantano: a coastal woodland reserve near Policoro.
- Bernalda: a lively town with a fine main street.
Quick facts
| Province | Matera, Ionian coast |
|---|---|
| Sea | Ionian (Gulf of Taranto) |
| From Matera | About 45 minutes by car |
| Ideal stay | A day trip, or several nights for the beach |
| Best for | Greek history, families, beaches |
| Getting around | Car; trains stop at Metaponto and Policoro |
How long to stay & where to base yourself
For history alone, a day trip from Matera is enough. For a beach holiday, stay three nights or more at Metaponto Lido or Lido di Policoro, where resort hotels and campsites line the coast. Bernalda is a stylish inland alternative.
