Overview

The longest pedestrian escalators in Europe

Potenza boasts a record that few people are aware of. The city is home to the longest escalators in Europe, which boast a total length of 1.3 kilometres and a transport capacity of 18,000 people per hour, figures that almost rival those of Tokyo’s escalators.

These huge, mechanised structures are indispensable for residents and visitors alike, as they allow them to make their way between the valley districts and the hilltop historic centre of this 819-metre-high town.

The escalators are divided into three different structures: those in Viale Marconi, those in Via Armellini and those in Santa Lucia. The latter, which were inaugurated in 2010, connect Via Tammone with Porta Salza. You can walk their 600-metre length in about 15 minutes, crossing the two mechanised sections connected by a 120-metre-long covered walkway. The ascent is also accessible to disabled people, as there are two lifts available.

Nicknamed the Heaven’s Stairs because of their silhouette that rises up into the sky, by catching a ride on these escalators, you can reach all of Potenza’s best attractions. We highly recommend visiting the church of San Francesco, the cathedral of San Gerardo, Piazza Matteotti, Ponte San Vito bridge and the Provincial Archaeological Museum.