The Arabata

Arabata, known locally as ‘a Ravt’, is an ancient district of Pietrapertosa whose name derives from the Arab origins of its medieval construction. The development of this part of the village is attributed to the Saracens, who chose Pietrapertosa and other towns in the Lucania region, such as Tricarico and Tursi, to settle and fortify themselves in extreme and impregnable locations.

The Arabata district is located in the highest part of the village at the foot of the castle area and is built along the steep slopes of the Lucanian Dolomites, a place that is difficult to access and closed to motor traffic. The district consists of small stone houses leaning against the rock that emerges continuously. The narrow streets that run through the district are also impassable and wind through a labyrinth of stairways, skirting houses, stables and small vegetable gardens.