Top of the World
Viggiano, characteristic village perched on the mountain, rises at almost one thousand metres above sea level. Ughiaino, "salubrious place" or Vibius, Vettius, "Roman noble family", are the hypotheses that place it in the Greek and Latin history.
Crossed by the stream Alli, it is the most important religious centre in Basilicata for the presence of the strong cult of the Black Madonna, the Patroness and Queen of Basilicata who is celebrated in two annual festivals. On the first Sunday in May, she is taken in a 15-kilometre procession to the little church built on the peak of the mountain where she was found; on the first Sunday in September, she returns to the village, welcomed by about 30,000 pilgrims from all over Italy.
Viggiano shines for its rich musical tradition: harp, flute, jazz are flanked by bagpipes and ciaramelle. A tradition that has its roots in the history of the country and in the ancient activity of wandering musicians, recognized and appreciated throughout Europe.
Among the most important events, not to be missed are the "Rassegna dell'arpa e della musica" (Harp and music review) and the "Viggiano Jazz" that every year host nationally and internationally renowned artists, set in suggestive places such as the Mandorleto, the Pisciolo and the Villa del marchese.
It is also important for its expanses of vineyards that allow the production of distinct varieties of Aglianico.
Extremely important is certainly the big mountain that rises behind the village. The "Montagna Grande Di Viggiano" (Big Mountain of Viggiano), is of considerable importance both for the Black Madonna and for the presence of its imposing ski complex, which is reached every year by an infinite number of visitors ready to practice this sport.
