National Historic Houses Day in Basilicata – Sunday 24 May 2026

The 16th edition of the National Historic Houses Day will see more than ten private historic residences in Basilicata open to the public for free on Sunday 24 May 2026. Organized by the Association of Italian Historic Houses (ADSI), the event lets visitors explore palaces, villas and castles often outside mainstream tourist routes.

What to expect

Free guided visits, routes that highlight architecture, local histories and private collections, and sites that form a widespread cultural heritage. The 2026 theme, "Guardians of the future. A living heritage for shared value", emphasizes the collective responsibility to protect and pass on private historic-architectural assets to future generations.

Residences open in Basilicata

• Province of Matera (MT): Santa Fara at Villa Gattini (Matera); Palazzo Laureano (Tricarico); Palazzo Ferrau' Bernardini (Matera); Palazzo Arcieri Bitonti (San Mauro Forte); Isabella Morra Castle in Valsinni (Valsinni).
• Province of Potenza (PZ): Palazzo Romano (Laurenzana); Ducal Palace of Pietragalla (Pietragalla); Palazzo Adobbato – La Voce del Fiume (Brienza); Historic Caves Cantine del Notaio (Rionero in Vulture); Former Dominican Convent (Potenza); Cavallerizza of Sant’Arcangelo (Sant’Arcangelo); Castle of Muro Lucano (Muro Lucano).

Practical information

Admission to the residences is free. Some sites may operate timed entry: for example, the Castle of Muro Lucano will be open from 09:30 to 13:00 and allows access to the Archaeological National Museum, the 11th-century Cathedral and the Diocesan Museum through local collaborations.

The list of open properties is regularly updated: check the Association of Italian Historic Houses' website or local channels for current details and schedules before your visit.

Tips: arrive in good time, follow staff instructions and verify any access restrictions due to conservation or logistical reasons.