Craco: Italy's ghost town rises as a unique tourist draw
Craco is one of the most intriguing places in Italy. Known as the ghost town, it attracts tourists from around the world. The history of its abandonment is very moving.
Located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, Craco captivates visitors with its mysterious atmosphere.
The history of Craco
The town was likely founded in the 8th century, constructed on a hillside primarily for military reasons. The first recorded mention of Craco dates back to 1060, when Bishop Arnaldo di Tricarico governed it. The greatest prosperity began in the 13th century with establishing a university and a castle. By the 20th century, the town had around 2,500 residents.
Craco survived numerous historical upheavals, including Italy's unification and World Wars. However, nature, not conflict, drove residents from their homes.
Reasons for the town's evacuation
In the 1940s, landslides began in Craco, caused by poorly planned construction work. The hill on which the town was situated couldn’t handle the pressure of increasingly dense development. Earthquakes were also a contributing factor.
In 1963, the decision was made to evacuate the residents and resettle them in a new town in the valley, Craco Peschiera. However, some remained in the old Craco until the 1970s, when floods and earthquakes ultimately forced the final inhabitants to leave their homes. By the 1980s, Craco was completely closed off.
A tourist attraction
Today, Craco is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the town's ruins only with a guide and wearing protective helmets. They can see historic buildings in a state of significant disrepair. Some towers or balconies have survived in specific areas; however, most structures are ruined. The only well-preserved monument is the church of Santa Maria della Stella. Consequently, the guided tour follows a route through only the stable ruins.
The walking route takes visitors through the entire town to its highest point, a tower located about 390 metres above sea level. It offers a strategic vantage point from which all the surrounding areas can be seen, and in good weather, even the Ionian Sea.
A film set
This place attracts tourists and filmmakers. Scenes from Mel Gibson's "The Passion" and "Quantum of Solace" from the James Bond series were filmed here.
Currently, the only residents of Craco that visitors might encounter while exploring the hill are herds of sheep, enjoying the lush local meadows.
A few words about the region
The Basilicata region is situated in southern Italy, at the tip of the Italian Peninsula. It features a mountainous landscape and hilltop towns. Many are captivated by their unique location and history, but few draw as many visitors as Craco. It’s about 40 kilometres from the Gulf of Taranto, part of the Ionian Sea.
