The population of Potenza is 65,000. Altitude is approximately 823 meters (2700 feet). Climate is mild. Average annual temperatures of 11.8 (53.2 F). 23 inches average annual rainfall.
Potenza is the Capital of southern Italy's Basilicata Region, and lies in a natural setting of exceptional charm. Located high in the Apennine Mountains, it was one of the twelve Lucanian towns that formed an alliance against Taranto and Rome in the 4th century BC in the Sammite wars and the wars of Pyrrhus. Earthquakes have punctuated Potenza's history (most recedntly in 1980). However, its medieval architecture has survived quite well.
Some authorities say that the city came into being during the period of the Southern Italian Green settlements, while others link its origin with the Roman road works in Lucania built in the 2nd century. Under Roman domination the city was first a Praefectura, and then an important Municipium. In 402 AD it was invaded by the Goths under Alaric, and by the Lombards. Subsequently the Byzantines and then the Normans arrived.
Later, Spain extended her dominion throughout Southern Italy and Potenza was caught up on the pre-colonial wars. In 1799, under the Bourbon domination, the “sanfedisti” murdered Bishop Giovanni Andrea Serrao, who had led the republican faction. In 1806, Potenza was made the Capital of the whole region by Napoleonic decree.
In August 1860, it was the first Southern Italian City to rebel against Bourbon rule. In recent years, Potenza has grown considerably. In 1951, the population was 32,560; according to the 1961 census it had risen to 43,545. Today the population is 65,000.
Potenza has several monuments and buildings of interest:
- The Cathedral of St. Gerard, built in 1197-1200
- The Castle's Tower built prior to 1000
- The Romanesque Church of St. Michael the Archangel built in the 12th century
- The Church of St. Mary of the Sepulcher, built in the 12th century.
Each year, at the end of May, Potenza celebrates the feast of St. Gerard, the patron saint of the city.
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