San Mauro Forte, town of the "Campanacci" that ring during Carnival, one of the most important in Basilicata, dominates the valley of the Salandrella stream from its hill. Located in the province of Matera, it lies in an area rich in olive groves, a key resource that has earned the village the nickname “Oil City”. Its history begins in the 11th century, when a baron vassal of the Count of Montescaglioso built his palace and related fortifications on the cliff on which San Mauro Forte stands today. From there developed the fortified settlement, which today displays some of the most fascinating medieval architecture in Basilicata. A visit can begin in the medieval village itself, with its historic palaces (many from the 1700s with Neapolitan-inspired paintings found in private chapels) and the Norman Tower, which represents what remains of the ancient Norman-Swabian Castle that was restored by the Angevins. In particular, it is worth admiring Palazzo Lauria, Palazzo Arcieri/Bitonto and Palazzo Acquaviva. Behind the tower, however, is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, whose construction dates back to 1553. Also worth seeing is the Church of the Annunziata, built starting in the late 15th century by the Franciscans, along with the large Convent. The Church of San Rocco and the Chapel of Santa Maria del Rosario conclude the visit. But the village also offers its cultural roots to be discovered, a useful way to serve emigrants interested in rediscovering their homeland. The most characteristic and anticipated event, in addition to the aforementioned Carnival, is the Sagra del Campanaccio, held between January 15 and 19, which has distant pagan origins linked to the worship of the land and transhumance. For the occasion, groups of men in traditional dress go around the streets of the town making noise with large cowbells, which are rung with every step by tapping them with their legs. On Good Friday, however, there is a procession that proceeds from the old Franciscan monastery with stops at all the churches in the village. Finally, May 23 is the turn of the patronal festival dedicated to San Mauro. As for food and wine excellences, truffles, pistachios, honey, pomegranate, saffron, extra virgin olive oil (especially the “cultivar majatica” variety) and both fresh and aged cheeses are worth trying. Typical dishes include “rafanata” during the Carnival period and “orecchiette” and “maccheroni ai ferri” with fried breadcrumbs and sausage. Among unforgettable flavors, timeless traditions and places with historical charm, San Mauro Forte is a window on the beauty of Basilicata.