The Legend of Isabella

The legend that gives the village its name

According to tradition, in the 11th century, a horde of barbarians invaded and destroyed the village of Sant'Antonio Casalini. The same fate would have befallen the village of San Lorenzo if the fearless Isabella had not decided to sacrifice her own life rather than witness the destruction of her country. From that gesture, legend has it, the village of Bella, in the province of Potenza, took its name.

A spectacular historical re-enactment

The Legend of Isabella is dedicated to this story, a historical re-enactment that every year, in the first half of August, transforms the center of the Lucanian village into a journey through time among steeds and noble knights, ladies and artisans, merchants and commoners, musicians and jesters. About 175 participants in period costume – peasants, artisans, wealthy citizens, nobles, armed guards, nuns, women, and children – bring Isabella's story to life, accompanied by music from Maestro Enzo Izzi.

Lights, sounds, and big screens

The performance is enhanced by special light and sound effects and made accessible to all thanks to two giant screens and live streaming on the social channels of the Associazione Io Isabella (I Isabella Association), which organizes the event. The setting is the evocative Aragonese Castle, Piazza Castello, and the historic center of Bella.

Atmosphere and local context

After the performance, the festival continues with a food and wine trail curated by restaurateurs from Bella and Muro Lucano: first courses, Podolica meat main courses, crêpes, savory pastries, and local desserts. Then, the celebration moves to the square and Via Barricate with music covering Ligabue and hits from the '70s and '80s. Founded in 2013 and organized with the Municipality of Bella, the event has become one of the most beloved summer appointments in the Marmo Platano region of Basilicata.