Pomarico is a charming village located in the province of Matera, in Basilicata. With a population of around 4,500 inhabitants, known as Pomaricans, the town rises 459 meters above sea level, between the valleys of the Bradano and Basento rivers. Its name derives from the Latin "pomarium," which means "orchard," attesting to the agricultural vocation of the territory.
The origins of Pomarico date back to the 9th century, when the inhabitants of Pomarico Vecchio, a fortified Lucanian settlement located about 12 km from the current center, moved to escape Saracen raids. The new settlement was founded by the Byzantines around 850 AD. Over the centuries, Pomarico came under the control of various feudal lords, including the Del Balzo and the Donnaperna families, who contributed to the architectural and cultural development of the village.
In 2019, a landslide struck the historic center, causing significant damage and requiring safety and restoration work. Despite the difficulties, the Pomarican community has demonstrated strong resilience, keeping traditions alive and working to enhance the local heritage.
Pomarico's economy is traditionally linked to agriculture, with the cultivation of cereals, olives, grapes, and figs. The production of cured meats, such as artisanal sausage and "gnumareddrë" (offal rolls), represents a local gastronomic excellence. In recent decades, the artisan sector and small businesses have experienced a contraction, leading to an increase in unemployment, in line with the trends of Southern Italy. However, initiatives related to cultural and rural tourism are offering new opportunities for economic development.
Mother Church of Saint Michael the Archangel
Built starting in 1748, the Mother Church features a Baroque facade and an imposing bell tower. The Latin cross interior houses works by Pietro Antonio Ferro and Andrea Vaccaro, a 15th-century wooden statue of Saint Michael, and a 16th-century antiphonary. Damaged by the 1980 earthquake, it was restored and reopened for worship in 1994.
Palazzo Donnaperna (Marquis Palace)
Built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the palace is an example of Lucanian noble architecture. Arranged around an internal courtyard, it houses the Salone Rosa (Pink Hall), decorated with tempera frescoed vaults.
Church of Saint Anthony of Padua
Attached to the former convent, now the Town Hall, the 17th-century church preserves a marble frontal from the 1700s, Baroque altars, and canvases by Pietro Antonio Ferro and Domenico Guarino. The carved wooden choir is a fine example of ecclesiastical craftsmanship.
Other Religious Buildings
Pomarico also houses the Church of the SS. Addolorata (Our Lady of Sorrows), the Church of the Pio Monte dei Morti (Pious Mount of the Dead), and the Clock Tower, which contribute to the charm of the historic center.
Pomarico Vecchio and Castro Cicurio
In the surroundings of the town are the remains of Pomarico Vecchio and Castro Cicurio, ancient settlements that bear witness to the long history of the territory. The archaeological finds discovered in these areas are exhibited in the "Domenico Ridola" National Archaeological Museum of Matera.
The patronal feast of Saint Michael the Archangel, celebrated from May 7th to 9th, is the most important event in Pomarico's religious and cultural calendar. During the celebrations, the offering of wax to the Saint is renewed, a tradition dating back to 1527, when the town was spared from a plague epidemic. The procession with the triumphal chariot and the religious and civil events involve the entire community.
Pomarican cuisine is rich in authentic flavors, with dishes such as "cavatelli" with meat sauce, "rafanata" (horseradish omelette), and chestnut "panzerotti" (small fried or baked pastries). Typical products, such as extra virgin olive oil and local wines, are appreciated both regionally and nationally.
Pomarico is connected to the main cities of Basilicata via the State Road 7 and the SS407 highway. The nearest railway station is Ferrandina Scalo Matera, located about 14 km from the town center. The local public transport service connects the Aldo Moro district to the historic center with regular routes.
