Laurenzana

Laurenzana is a town and comune in the province of Potenza, in the region of Basilicata (southern Italy). It rises on a spur between the torre Camastro and the wood surrounding the Serrapotamo valley. History Laurenzana's origins probably date from the 12th century when the Normans decided to build a fortified village in this area due to its strategic position. In 1268 Laurenzana took part in the Ghibelline revolt against Pope Clement V. During the Aragonese domination, it was ruled by the Orsini del Balzo and then in the 15th century by the Loffredos followed by the Filangieris the De Ruggieros, the De Quartos and the Belgioiosos. Main sights The most prominent architectural attraction is the Chiesa Madre dell'Assunta with a stone portal dating from 1780. It has one nave and two aisles, and houses a polychrome marble high altar, a fresco dating from the 16th century and Neapolitan school canvases dating from the 18th century. Near this church there is the belvedere from which it is possible to admire the surrounding valleys and mountains. Also noteworthy is the Church of the Madonna del Carmine, housing a canvas painted by Giovanni Battista Serra from Tricarico and dating from 1611. Walking through the narrow streets of the village center the ruins of the castle situated in a position dominating the village. Delightful walks can be taken along the Abetina ("Fir-wood") of Laurenzana, covering an area of 8 square kilometres (3.1 sq mi) on which silver firs and beech trees grow. The Società Botanica Italiana has considered the Abetina as a biotope of extraordinary environmental interest and has designated it a "Riserva Naturale Regionale" Economy Up to a few years ago, Laurenzana was famous for the production of high quality liquors produced in four distilleries situated within the village. Handicraft activities regarding the manufacture of wooden barrels, bagpipes and wrought-iron were also widespread. The economy of the village is mainly based on agriculture; in fact, it is possible to find silviculture and animal breeding farms producing delicious dairy products. Religious festivals Beato Egidio da Laurenzana: January 10 (date of birth); Last Sunday in May or First Sunday in June Sant'Antonio di Padova : June 13 San Vito : June 15 Madonna del Carmelo : July 16 San Rocco : August 16 Madonna Addolorata : Last Sunday in September Typical local dishes Calzone ripieno con salame. (Calzone filled with salame) Gnocchi con le rape. (Gnocchi with turnips) Pane di grano duro cotto al forno (Hard grain bread cooked in an oven) Sauzezz r laurnzn (Laurenzana style sausages) Patate chiene (Filled potatoes) Nuglia (Lean sausages) Demographic Population census Twin towns Barberino di Mugello, Italy See also Gaetani dell'Aquila d'Aragona, princes of Piedimonte, and dukes of Laurenzana References External links (English)Laurenzana Genealogy(Births, Marriage index 1809-1910, Deaths)