Nestled in the rolling landscapes of Basilicata, the small village of Pietragalla holds a secret whispering from the past—Parco dei Palmenti.

Scattered across the hillside, 200 ancient stone houses stand as a symbol of peasant civilization, their origins stretching back to the 18th and 19th centuries—or perhaps even earlier, to the 14th century. But these aren’t just ordinary dwellings… they were once vital centers for traditional wine production, where the rhythms of harvest and fermentation followed ancient customs still remembered today.

Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and local guides, this extraordinary site has been revived, offering a rare glimpse into a nearly forgotten world. Even the FAI (Italian Environment Fund) has recognized its cultural importance, embracing it as a “place of the heart.”

Wander through this living time capsule, where stone and tradition intertwine, and let history uncork its secrets.