Montalbano Jonico.
The name probably comes from ‘Mons Albanus’, relating to the ancient town of Albano. Judging from the many finds discovered in the immediate vicinity, the area has been inhabited since the Hellenistic-Roman time.

In the town centre, it is possible to admire the beautiful ‘Arco del Pubblico Orologio’, an ancient gate dating from the XVII century. The mother church of Santa Maria d'Episcopio e San Maurizio, built in the XVI century and renovated in different periods, is very interesting.

The town is famous as the birthplace of Melchiorre da Montalbano, an architect and sculptor who lived in the XIII century, the author of the reconstruction of the church of Rapolla.

The town is also well-known as the place of origin of the family of Nicola Romeo, the founder of the famous car company Alfa Romeo. Agriculture is well developed in this area, especially around the ‘Giardini di Montalbano’ (Montalbano gardens), situated along the banks of the river Agri, where citrus fruits, olive trees and vegetables are grown.