Stage 6
Potenza > Napoli
POTENZA
Potenza, capital of the Basilicata region, is a city full of surprises - just like the surrounding mountains, dotted with charming villages, blanketed by endless forests, or sculpted by rows of Aglianico DOCG vineyards, the pride of Southern Italy and increasingly acclaimed around the world.
Mario Pagano Square, recently redesigned under the guidance of star architect Gae Aulenti, is the perfect starting point for a journey through the Apennine heart of Basilicata, which, as the sixth stage of the Giro d’Italia does, winds through Irpinia and finishes in Naples. But before leaving the Lucanian capital, let’s find some time to stroll along Strada Pretoria, the city’s lively main street, and visit the Cathedral of San Gerardo. Stop at Palazzo Loffredo with its Chapel of the Celestines, and explore the Dinu Adamesteanu National Archaeological Museum of Basilicata, offering a sweeping overview of the region’s ancient history.
JOURNEY THROUGH IRPINIA
The first stop of the day is Muro Lucano, a postcard-worthy village clinging dramatically to a limestone ridge, crowned by the Cathedral of San Nicola and Camera (12th century) and a mighty medieval castle. After crossing the Monte Carruozzo Pass, the route descends into Campania, reaching Conza, nestled beside an artificial lake formed by the Ofanto River. It’s the perfect moment for another pause, this time to explore the archaeological park of Compsa, with its Roman ruins including the forum, amphitheater, baths, cathedral, and heraldic column.
Avellino, the capital of Irpinia, keeps its treasures well hidden, sometimes jealously so. Don’t miss a visit to Underground Avellino, a world of Lombard tunnels, the caves of Villa Amendola, and the subterranean chambers of Casino del Principe, revealing the secret soul of this fascinating city. It's no surprise to see shop windows full of leather shoes and garments: just beyond the city lies Solofra, a hub of the region’s leather and footwear district, home to dozens of small artisanal businesses whose products are exported across all five continents.
NAPLES
From Monteforte Irpino, the peloton heads through Nola and Afragola before the unforgettable entrance into Naples. After stage finish, how about discovering, or rediscovering, the city. If time is short, pick your landmarks wisely: Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace, the Cathedral of San Gennaro, Castel dell’Ovo, the Maschio Angioino, the Museum and Royal Wood of Capodimonte, and the Monastery of Santa Chiara are all worthy first stops.
But Naples is much more: it’s a cradle of extraordinary craftsmanship, from master goldsmiths to world-renowned tailoring. The city is also home to elite makers of ties, umbrellas, and walking canes, because noblesse oblige still holds sway here.
