SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 1, 2025 – Nestled in the heart of southern Italy’s Pollino National Park, San Severino Lucano beckons travelers with its pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a celestial spectacle unlike any other. Known as “the town of the stars” for its minimal light pollution, this Orange Flag-certified destination by the Italian Touring Club offers a unique blend of natural wonder and timeless tradition.
A Celestial Escape: The Town of the Stars
San Severino Lucano’s claim to fame is its breathtaking night sky, where the absence of light pollution allows visitors to gaze at constellations, planets, and the Milky Way in unparalleled clarity. This celestial charm, combined with its location within the UNESCO-recognized Pollino National Park, makes the village a haven for stargazers and nature lovers alike.
Adventure Awaits in Pristine Wilderness
The village serves as the gateway to the Pollino massif, offering trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking that begin in the hamlet of Mezzana. Among its natural treasures is the Magnano Forest, a biodiverse hotspot home to the Pollino Adventure Park. Designed for inclusivity, the park features wheelchair-accessible paths and activities suitable for all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy its zip lines, rope courses, and treetop walks.
Nearby, the rugged Frido Gorge offers dramatic vistas, while the Rb Ride—a panoramic merry-go-round by artist Carsten Höller—invites visitors to soak in 360-degree views from Timpa della Guardia, perched at over 1,000 meters. Dubbed “the slowest merry-go-round in the world,” this installation transforms sightseeing into a meditative experience, highlighting the park’s untouched beauty.
Cultural Gems and Timeless Traditions
San Severino Lucano’s spiritual heart lies at the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Pollino, a pilgrimage site for locals and visitors from neighboring Calabria. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the sanctuary offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. The village also boasts the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, a 16th-century architectural marvel, and museums dedicated to rural and artisan life, including the Laboratory Museum of the Fauna Minore del Pollino.
History comes alive at the Iannarelli Mill, a restored 18th-century structure once owned by Captain Iannarelli of the National Guard. Revitalized by two young locals in the early 2000s, the mill now operates as a charming restaurant and lodging facility, blending heritage with modern hospitality.
Celebrations and Flavors of Lucanian Culture
The village’s vibrant traditions shine during its annual festivals. The Carnival of San Severino Lucanofeatures whimsical characters and the rhythmic beats of the “cupi-cupi,” a traditional percussion instrument. In July, the Festa della Madonna del Pollino draws pilgrims for solemn processions and communal feasts, while August’s Pollino Music Festival brings national and international artists to the mountainside.
Local cuisine reflects the region’s “humble yet genuine” ethos. Signature dishes include rascadietti(handmade orecchiette pasta) and minestra ‘mpastata, a hearty vegetable and pasta stew. These recipes, passed down through generations, offer a taste of the area’s agricultural roots.
Plan Your Journey to San Severino Lucano
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or a family seeking inclusive adventures, San Severino Lucano promises an unforgettable escape. With its starlit skies, untamed wilderness, and warm hospitality, this hidden gem invites travelers to experience the soul of southern Italy.
For more information on accommodations, trails, and events, visit the Italian Touring Club’s Orange Flag portal or connect with local tourism offices.