Surprising is Lucania, a film set

Nestled in the heart of the Italian region of Basilicata, Lucania is a captivating destination that seems almost frozen in time. This region has managed to preserve its authentic charm, making it an idyllic setting for numerous films. The enchanting landscapes, untouched by modernization, lend themselves perfectly to the art of cinema. Lucania’s breathtaking beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality have attracted filmmakers from all over the world.

Lucania’s allure lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time. With its quaint villages, ancient architecture, and stunning natural surroundings, the region offers an ambience that is both captivating and inspiring. It is no wonder that filmmakers have increasingly turned to Lucania as the perfect backdrop for their movies.

One notable production filmed in Lucania is “Basilicata Coast to Coast.” Directed by Rocco Papaleo, this heartwarming comedy follows a group of musicians as they embark on a transformative journey across the region to fulfill their dream of performing in a famous music festival. The film showcases the beauty of Lucania’s rolling hills, picturesque villages, and stunning coastline, portraying the region in all its splendor.

Another noteworthy film set in Lucania is “Christ Stopped at Eboli”, directed by Francesco Rosi. Based on the renowned memoir by Carlo Levi, the film depicts Levi’s exile to Aliano, a small village in Basilicata, during the fascist era. This powerful story captures the ruggedness of the landscape, the harshness of rural life, and the resilience of the local people. The film’s location in Lucania adds an authentic and dramatic touch to the narrative, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Lucania’s ancient towns and villages also serve as ideal settings for historical films. The town of Matera, with its distinctive cave dwellings known as “Sassi,” has been featured in several movies, including Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ.” The unique architecture and dramatic landscape of Matera, often described as a “time capsule,” transport audiences to biblical times and add an incredible sense of historical realism to any production.

Lucania’s natural wonders are equally enchanting as film sets. The Pollino National Park, the largest in Italy, offers breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, deep valleys, and rugged peaks. This stunning backdrop has been captured in the film “Reality” by Matteo Garrone, winner of the Grand Prix at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. The story follows a fishmonger from Naples who becomes obsessed with appearing on the reality TV show “Big Brother.” The juxtaposition of the protagonist’s urban life with the untamed beauty of Lucania’s wilderness creates a visually stunning and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

The magic of Lucania’s film sets is not limited to Italian productions alone. International filmmakers have also recognized the region’s unique appeal. The James Bond film “No Time to Die” features scenes shot in the picturesque town of Matera, adding to the allure of this already iconic spy franchise.

Lucania’s success as a film set can be attributed to its ability to capture the essence of a bygone era. Whether serving as the backdrop for historical dramas or contemporary comedies, the region’s architectural heritage, captivating landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a remarkable location for filmmakers and audiences alike.

In conclusion, Lucania, with its timeless charm and extraordinary landscapes, continues to surprise and captivate both filmmakers and tourists. Its ability to transport audiences to different eras and evoke powerful emotions on screen has firmly established Lucania as a must-visit film set destination. Exploring Lucania is an experience that will leave you entranced, as you discover the enchantment of a region that seems to have been plucked straight from the silver screen.