An ancient tree ritual blending myth and tradition: on June 1st, 8th, and 15th, 2025, Castelsaraceno celebrates the centuries-old Festa della ‘Ndenna — a powerful symbol of fertility and Lucanian heritage.
In the heart of Basilicata, nestled between the Pollino National Park and the Lagonegrese Regional Park, the small village of Castelsaraceno comes alive each June with an ancient celebration of nature, tradition, and community: the Festa della ‘Ndenna.
Held on the first three Sundays of June (1, 8 and 15 June 2025), this unique festival combines folklore, spirituality, and collective ritual. At its core is the symbolic union of two trees—a tall beech (the ‘Ndenna) and a pine top (the Cunocchia)—representing fertility, balance between masculine and feminine, and the seasonal cycle of renewal.
The celebration begins with the selection of the ‘Ndenna tree from the Favino Forest on Monte Alpi. Hauled back to the village with oxen, tractors, and the help of many hands, the tree becomes a central figure in the local square. One week later, the Cunocchia is chosen from Monte Armizzone and carried on foot into town, where it’s welcomed with joy and music. The climax comes on the third Sunday: the two trees are joined with iron and bolts and raised skyward in a striking display of strength, unity, and tradition.
The ‘Ndenna remains standing until October, when it is ceremonially taken down during the Mountain Festival. The ritual is a vivid expression of Castelsaraceno’s deep bond with nature, faith, and community—offering visitors a rare glimpse into Southern Italy’s living heritage.
For an unforgettable view of the tree and the surrounding landscape, thrill-seekers can cross the world’s longest single-span suspension bridge. Known as the “Bridge Between Two Parks,” this engineering marvel stretches 586 meters and soars 80 meters above a gorge, connecting the Pollino and the Lucanian Apennine–Val d’Agri–Lagonegrese parks. It’s a breathtaking way to experience one of Italy’s most authentic and unspoiled corners.
