Masseria San Germano can be seen from afar and is noteworthy for its sobriety and grandeur. Dating back to the 17th century, it is located in the district of the same name, close to Bradano River. The ancient farmhouse is built of stone and spans three floors: the first and second are dedicated to the living quarters, while the ground floor is occupied by the service areas and the offices. According to its original layout, there were warehouses for storing grain and stables paved with smooth white stones that would have been sourced from riverbeds. The stables were used for the horses and mules that were employed in agricultural work and transportation during that time.

The earthquake in 1980 caused significant damage, but extensive restoration and careful maintenance have restored its original beauty. The Masseria is owned by the Schiavone Panni family, who reside there for a few months each year and continue to manage the farmlands located in the valley at the foot of the village of Acerenza, which have been there for almost 500 years.

MASSERIA SAN GERMANO IN ACERENZA

The ancestral Panni family, who originated from the area of Acerenza, acquired the feudal property in the 17th century for the princely sum of 21,500 ducats. The family line ended with Vincenzo Panni, who in 1921 transferred the surname and ownership, through adoption, to Alfredo, the son of his sister Maria Francesca, who was married to Vincenzo Schiavone.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES AT MASSERIA SAN GERMANO

Prices for events and accommodation: to be arranged with the owner.

PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE VICINITY

Among the places we recommend you visit nearby, Matera is 45 minutes by car, Acerenza with its Norman cathedral is 10 minutes by car, the Castle of Monte Serico is 15 minutes’ drive away and Venosa, known as the city of Horace, is 45 minutes’ away. Here you will discover the magnificent ‘Incompiuta’, the unfinished Castello Aragonese, as well as the oldest Jewish settlement in Southern Italy, dating back to ancient times, and its burial sites.