Monte Vulture

Monte Vulture is an extinct volcanic massif in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, rising to approximately 1,326 metres. Its slopes and base host woodland, agricultural land and two small crater lakes known collectively as the Monticchio lakes.

Visitors commonly see the Monticchio lakes, woodland paths and the cultivated lower slopes where vineyards produce the Aglianico del Vulture wine. The combination of volcanic landforms and agricultural use makes the mountain a notable regional landscape.

The feature is an ancient volcanic structure; its cones and cratered areas reflect past volcanic activity and later erosion. Human settlement and cultivation have long used the more gentle lower slopes.

Monte Vulture lies in the inland area of Basilicata near towns such as Melfi and Rionero in Vulture.

• Extinct volcano: Highest point is around 1,326 metres and the mountain is an extinct volcano rather than currently active.
• Wine region: The area around the lower slopes and lakes is noted for vineyards producing Aglianico del Vulture, a locally important DOC wine.

What to See #

• Monticchio lakes: The Monticchio lakes at the mountain's base comprise two small crater lakes, Lago Piccolo and Lago Grande, set within woodland and marshland and forming the most visited natural attractions on the volcano's slopes.
• Summit and vineyards: The summit area around 1,326 metres includes forested slopes and agricultural terraces; vineyards on the lower slopes produce the Aglianico del Vulture wine.