Buonvicino, the “friendly” village of the three hamlets

Buonvicino was founded in the second half of the 14th century from the union of three hamlets: two of Hellenic origin (Salvato and Tripidone) and one of Roman origin (Triggiano), reconciled by Basilian monks. According to tradition, the name derives from the relationship between “good neighbors,” though it is more likely linked to the breeding of silkworms. The old village rises on a rocky spur within the Pollino National Park, with 19 districts scattered along the valley of the Corvino River. Among its historic landmarks are the Cavalcanti ducal palace, the Mother Church of San Ciriaco, and the three palaces of the Cauteruccio family, one of which houses the Museo Arti e Gusto. Nature trails lead to caves, sanctuaries, and ancient Greek settlements, all immersed in unspoiled landscapes.

The beauties of the village 

Buonvicino is a maze of alleys, overhangs, and stairways, with finely crafted portals. It has a rustic, earthy atmosphere and a panoramic terrace where the monumental statue of San Ciriaco stands, offering views over the Marine Park of the Riviera dei Cedri and the Gulf of Policastro. The Museo Arti e Gusto Buonvicino tells the story of the village through five sections: archaeology, folk art, sacred art, contemporary art, and environmental heritage. One hall is dedicated to Ippolito Cavalcanti, Duke of Buonvicino and gastronomer at the Bourbon court.

Local traditions

 In Buonvicino, gastronomy and religion are closely intertwined. On Easter Monday, it is traditional to picnic in the Pollino Park with baked pasta, kid with potatoes, asparagus omelet, and ’a pizzatua. On August 4–5, the feast of the Madonna della Neve is celebrated with tarantellas and typical dishes at 800 meters above sea level. In mid-September, the patronal feast honors San Ciriaco with a procession and traditional foods such as fusilli with goat sauce, salted cod, fried peppers, and tripe. During Rapsodia d’Autunno, local restaurants reinterpret the recipes of Ippolito Cavalcanti, while at Christmas traditional sweets such as chinuule, cannariculi, and crespelle take center stage.

Exploring the surroundings of Buonvicino

 The surroundings of Buonvicino offer pristine landscapes and nature trails within the Pollino National Park. Along the Corvino valley are caves and the small chapel where San Ciriaco Abate once lived as a hermit. At 800 meters stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Neve, a destination for summer pilgrimages. Near Serapodolo, among woods and pastures, fifty species of wild orchids bloom, and one can reach the Sasso dei Greci, an ancient Hellenic settlement. Numerous trails allow exploration of mountains, gorges, and sea views, offering experiences that combine history, nature, and tradition.

cover photo credits: Peperoncino Festival