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Get InspiredEuropeItalyBasilicateCraco

Craco

Basilicate, Italy
Ghost Town·Eerie, Historic, Isolated
Craco
Photo by Alfonso Scarpa from Unsplash
Craco
Photo by Serena Repice Lentini from Unsplash
Craco
Photo by Alfonso Scarpa from Unsplash
Craco
Photo by Serena Repice Lentini from Unsplash

Craco, situated in the picturesque Basilicata region of Italy, is a ghost town that captivates visitors with its haunting beauty and rich history. Abandoned after the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, the town's medieval structures stand as a testament to its past. Craco has become a popular tourist attraction and filming location, drawing history enthusiasts and photographers from around the world. Its inclusion in the World Monuments Fund watch list highlights its cultural significance and the need for preservation. Visitors can explore the eerie streets and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Craco, situated in the picturesque Basilicata region of Italy, is a ghost town that captivates visitors with its haunting beauty and rich history. Abandoned after the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, the town's medieval structures stand as a testament to its past. Craco has become a popular tourist attraction and filming location, drawing history enthusiasts and photographers from around the world. Its inclusion in the World Monuments Fund watch list highlights its cultural significance and the need for preservation. Visitors can explore the eerie streets and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Stunning views of abandoned structures.

  • Rich history with medieval origins.

  • Popular filming location for movies.

  • Included in the World Monuments Fund watch list.

Before you go: Craco essentials

  • Craco is a ghost town with no permanent residents.

  • The town is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows.

  • Access may be restricted in certain areas for safety reasons.

Exploration

Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and challenging.

Photography

Bring a camera to capture the stunning and unique landscapes.

Best For

History buffs and photographers.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Italian

Safety

Be cautious when exploring the ruins, as some areas may be unstable.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Enthusiasts, Photographers

Best time to visit Craco

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers mild weather, perfect for exploring the town's ruins.

Best Season

Summer

Summer can be hot, so visit early in the day to avoid the heat.

Best Season

Fall

Fall provides comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.

Winter

Winters are mild, but some areas may be less accessible due to weather conditions.

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Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Craco, Basilicate, Italy

Things to do in Craco

Guided Tour of Matera Sassi
From $18

Guided Tour of Matera Sassi

4.7(1,4 K)
Duration: 2h
Matera
Matera : Sassi tour with the iconic churches carved into the rock
From $26

Matera : Sassi tour with the iconic churches carved into the rock

4.8(521)
Duration: 2h
Matera
Discover Matera, the ancient city - English tour
From $35

Discover Matera, the ancient city - English tour

4.9(1,9 K)
Duration: 2h
Matera
Walking tour of the Sassi of Matera with Casa Grotta/Church
From $18

Walking tour of the Sassi of Matera with Casa Grotta/Church

4.9(187)
Duration: 2h
Matera
Ape Calessino Tour Sassi of Matera "Standard"
From $41

Ape Calessino Tour Sassi of Matera "Standard"

4.5(175)
Duration: 40 min
Matera
Matera Private Walking Tour with a Local
From $56

Matera Private Walking Tour with a Local

3.7(3)
Duration: 2h
Matera
Guided tour of Procida departing from Ischia HD
From $70

Guided tour of Procida departing from Ischia HD

Duration: 4h
Isola d'Ischia
Panoramic Tour of the Sassi of Matera in Open-Bus with House-Cave
From $24

Panoramic Tour of the Sassi of Matera in Open-Bus with House-Cave

4.9(253)
Duration: 1h 30min
Matera
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Natural & historic sites near Craco

Pollino National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Remote, Pristine, Wild
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Appennino Lucano - Val d'Agri - Lagonegrese National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Peaceful, Wild, Untouched
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Alta Murgia National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Peaceful, Expansive, Historic