The unique scenery of the Little Lucanian Dolomites

The Little Lucanian Dolomites are mountains whose birth dates back to about 15 million years ago, to the Miocene period.

In stark contrast to the surrounding landscape, characterized by gentle shapes, the Lucanian Dolomites are the highest and most rugged peaks of the Gallipoli Cognato Park.

The denomination “Dolomiti” derives from the similarity with the most famous peaks of the Triveneto.

Leaning on a slope to the north of the Dolomite ridge is Castelmezzano, a typically medieval village whose houses are very close together and are sometimes built on bare rock.

Moving southwards, along the same Dolomite ridge, the village of Pietrapertosa rises.

The town seems set in the rock. It is unusual to note how the houses alternate with the rocky conformations of the mountain, creating a unique scenario.

Being located higher than Castelmezzano, from the top of Pietrapertosa you can easily admire the whole surrounding landscape.

From here the view extends over the whole Gallipoli Cognato Park, up to Tricarico and the mountains of the Potentino.