Basilicata is bringing its culture, tourism, and deep-rooted heritage to New York as part of an international effort to strengthen ties with Italian Americans and promote one of Italy’s most authentic destinations.
The initiative, called “Destination Basilicata,” places the southern Italian region at the center of a series of events designed to showcase its history, artistic excellence, and strong connection to the Italian diaspora.
The first stop takes place in Manhattan, where representatives from Basilicata and the town of Aliano are presenting the region to American audiences through cultural programming and discussions focused on heritage tourism. Aliano, known around the world for its association with writer Carlo Levi, is being highlighted as a destination where visitors can experience a more intimate and genuine side of Italy.
A key part of the program is the presentation of a book dedicated to Italian American artist Paul Russotto, a New York–born painter whose family roots trace back to Aliano. The event underlines the enduring cultural links between Basilicata and generations of Americans of Italian descent.
The initiative is also part of a broader strategy centered on “roots tourism,” a rapidly growing sector aimed at reconnecting descendants of Italian emigrants with their ancestral communities. Basilicata has become one of Italy’s leading regions in this field, developing projects and international partnerships designed to attract travelers interested in family history, local traditions, and smaller towns away from mass tourism routes. Studies estimate that there are roughly 80 million people worldwide with Italian ancestry, representing a major opportunity for regions like Basilicata.
After New York, the Basilicata delegation will continue to Houston for Italy’s Republic Day celebrations, further expanding the region’s presence in the United States and reinforcing the growing relationship between Basilicata, Italian Americans, and cultural tourism.
