Historical Sites

Policoro, the heart of Metapontino

On the border between Basilicata and Puglia, in Policoro, at the center of the Ionian Arc in the ancient territories of Magna Graecia just 120 kilometers from the international airports of Bari and Brindisi, with direct connections to major European capitals. A very rich territory to marvel at every day: sea, rivers, pine forests, historic villages and national parks.Surrounded by the wild and unspoiled nature of the Pollino National Park, this young resort offers a variety of attractions that make it an ideal destination for those who want to spend a vacation dedicated to relaxation, culture and nature.Policoro was founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century BC under the name Heraclea, in honor of the legendary Greek hero Heracles. During the Roman period, the city developed further, becoming an important commercial and cultural center. Over the following centuries, the city underwent several dominations and changes until it became the fascinating historic center we can admire today.The modern city of Policoro, located in the same area as ancient Heraclea, was founded only in 1971, following the administrative reorganization of the area. The modern city is characterized by modern and functional urban planning, with a range of services and infrastructure that make it an ideal destination for tourism.One of Policoro’s main attractions is its long sandy beach, which stretches for about 7 kilometers along the Ionian coast. The beach is equipped with modern and high-quality facilities, including bathing establishments, restaurants, bars, and beach volleyball courts. It is the ideal place to relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear sea, and enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.The town of Policoro is also known for its important archaeological heritage. In fact, the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Heraclea, founded in the 6th century BC, are located here. The ruins include a theater, a forum, an acropolis and the foundations of numerous dwellings. The archaeological area of Heraclea is a place of great historical and cultural interest, where one can breathe in the atmosphere of ancient Greece. If you love nature, Policoro is then the perfect place to explore the Pollino National Park, a vast protected natural area stretching between Basilicata and Calabria. Here you can go hiking or biking, admire the natural beauty of the area, including the Raganello gorges and the Marmarico waterfall, and encounter wild animals such as the Marsican bear and the Apennine wolf.

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