Basilicata is a region in southern Italy known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites. The word "Basilicata" is spelled /bəˌsɪlɪˈkɑːtə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The stress in the word falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced with the schwa vowel sound /ə/. The "s" in "basilicata" is pronounced with a voiced /z/ sound, while the "c" is pronounced with a hard /k/ sound. The final "a" is pronounced with an unstressed schwa vowel sound /ə/.
Basilicata is a noun that refers to a region in southern Italy located on the instep of the Italian peninsula's boot shape. It borders the regions of Campania, Apulia, and Calabria. With a population of approximately 570,365 inhabitants, it covers an area of 9,992 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest regions in the country.
Basilicata is characterized by a rugged and mountainous landscape, with the Apennine Mountains dominating its territory. Monte Vulture, an extinct volcano, is a prominent landmark within the region. The region is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, with numerous ancient towns and archaeological sites scattered across its territory.
Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of wheat, grapes, olives, and vegetables, constitutes a significant part of Basilicata's economy. The region is also home to various mineral resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas, which contribute to its industrial development.
The city of Matera, famous for its ancient town known as Sassi di Matera, is one of the most renowned destinations in Basilicata. The Sassi di Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its unique cave dwellings, which have been inhabited since prehistoric times.
In summary, Basilicata is a region in southern Italy with a mountainous landscape, rich historical and cultural heritage, and a significant agricultural and industrial economy.
The term "Basilicata" is derived from the Greek word "Basiliké", which means "royal". This name was given to the region during the Byzantine era when it was under the rule of the Eastern Roman Empire. It refers to the administrative center of the region, which encompassed the ancient city of Matera. Over time, this term evolved into "Basilicata", which is the modern name for the region in Italy.