Liakra et Bare – Il Borgo dei Sapori Arbëreshë

The Albanian roots of the Vulture

Ginestra is one of the five Arbëreshë municipalities in Basilicata, founded in the 15th century by Albanian refugees fleeing Turkish persecution. Even today, this tiny village in the Vulture region, in the province of Potenza, retains a distinct linguistic and cultural identity. It is to this heritage that 'Liakra et Bare – Il Borgo dei Sapori Arbëreshë' is dedicated, the autumn festival whose name, in the Arbëreshë language, means 'herbs and berries'.

Music, taste, and culture

For two days, usually at the end of October, the historic centre of Ginestra transforms into a food and wine trail showcasing the flavours of Albanian tradition, with live music, street performances, and evening concerts in Piazza Ciriello. Past editions have hosted groups and artists connected to Mediterranean, Balkan, and Middle Eastern sounds — from AMARIMAI to KANTARA with the 'Mediterraneika' project — capable of weaving together the soul of Southern Italy with that of the Balkans. Alongside the music, there are workshops, seminars, and events to promote the region, also curated by the Fondazione Appennino.

An immersion into Arbëreshë identity

Visiting Ginestra during the festival means coming into contact with a living culture: the ancient barrels, carts, ploughs, and traditional costumes displayed in the streets, the Mother Church of San Nicola and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, the botanical garden with Arbëreshë medicinal herbs. An event that attracts thousands of visitors and is, above all, a community celebration.