🎄 Win a month in Italy for two — €10,000 · The Secret Italy Prize GO →
Policoro, the heart of Metapontino — Policoro
← Back
Historical Sites 📍 Policoro, Italy 151 views

Policoro, the heart of Metapontino

On the border between Basilicata and Puglia, in Policoro, at the center of the Ionian Arc in the ancient territories of Magna Graecia just 120 kilometers from the international airports of Bari and Brindisi, with direct connections to major European capitals. A very rich territor...

Photo · Monia S.

Policoro, the heart of Metapontino — Policoro, Italy.

Location
Policoro
Type
Historical Sites
Opening hours
Weather now
↗ Directions

About Policoro, the heart of Metapontino

Policoro, the heart of Metapontino - Policoro | Secret World Trip Planner

On the border between Basilicata and Puglia, in Policoro, at the center of the Ionian Arc in the ancient territories of Magna Graecia just 120 kilometers from the international airports of Bari and Brindisi, with direct connections to major European capitals. A very rich territory to marvel at every day: sea, rivers, pine forests, historic villages and national parks.Surrounded by the wild and unspoiled nature of the Pollino National Park, this young resort offers a variety of attractions that make it an ideal destination for those who want to spend a vacation dedicated to relaxation, culture and nature.Policoro was founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century BC under the name Heraclea, in honor of the legendary Greek hero Heracles. During the Roman period, the city developed further, becoming an important commercial and cultural center. Over the following centuries, the city underwent several dominations and changes until it became the fascinating historic center we can admire today.The modern city of Policoro, located in the same area as ancient Heraclea, was founded only in 1971, following the administrative reorganization of the area. The modern city is characterized by modern and functional urban planning, with a range of services and infrastructure that make it an ideal destination for tourism.One of Policoro's main attractions is its long sandy beach, which stretches for about 7 kilometers along the Ionian coast. The beach is equipped with modern and high-quality facilities, including bathing establishments, restaurants, bars, and beach volleyball courts. It is the ideal place to relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear sea, and enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.The town of Policoro is also known for its important archaeological heritage. In fact, the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Heraclea, founded in the 6th century BC, are located here. The ruins include a theater, a forum, an acropolis and the foundations of numerous dwellings. The archaeological area of Heraclea is a place of great historical and cultural interest, where one can breathe in the atmosphere of ancient Greece. If you love nature, Policoro is then the perfect place to explore the Pollino National Park, a vast protected natural area stretching between Basilicata and Calabria. Here you can go hiking or biking, admire the natural beauty of the area, including the Raganello gorges and the Marmarico waterfall, and encounter wild animals such as the Marsican bear and the Apennine wolf.

Policoro, the heart of Metapontino - Policoro | Secret World Trip Planner
Policoro, the heart of Metapontino - Policoro | Secret World Trip Planner
Policoro, the heart of Metapontino - Policoro | Secret World Trip Planner
✦ Secret World · suggested day

A perfect day in Policoro

Start with Policoro, the heart of Metapontino, then continue with nearby places selected by Secret World.

  1. 01
    Morning
    Policoro, the heart of Metapontino
    📍 Policoro
    Start here
  2. 02
    Afternoon
    📍 0.2 km away
  3. 03
    Evening
    📍 0.9 km away

Collect this place

Turn places you discover into stamps in your Secret Passport.

Open Secret Passport →

Keep exploring · Policoro

Frequently Asked Questions

Policoro is conveniently located just 120 kilometers from the international airports of both Bari and Brindisi, with direct connections to major European capitals. This makes it easily accessible whether you're flying domestically or internationally, with a relatively short drive to reach the town.
Policoro was originally founded as the Greek colony of Heraclea in the 6th century BC, named after the legendary hero Heracles, and later became an important commercial and cultural center during the Roman period. The modern city of Policoro itself was only established in 1971 following administrative reorganization, but it stands on the same ancient site where these remarkable ruins still remain today.
The ruins of ancient Heraclea are located in Policoro and include impressive structures such as a theater, forum, acropolis, and various building foundations that showcase the city's Greek heritage. These archaeological remains are one of Policoro's main attractions and offer a fascinating window into the life of Magna Graecia.
Policoro boasts a long 7-kilometer sandy beach along the Ionian coast with modern, high-quality facilities including bathing establishments, restaurants, bars, and beach volleyball courts. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for windsurfing and kitesurfing available.
Policoro is surrounded by the wild and unspoiled nature of the Pollino National Park, and the region features rivers, pine forests, and historic villages throughout the Metapontino area. This combination of sea, nature, and culture makes it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, and natural exploration.

Experiences nearby · Policoro

Powered by Viator

See more on Viator.com

Secret World Hidden places, real stories — plan your trip
Get the app