Conducting genealogical research in the Province of Matera and in Basilicata can be a rewarding and fascinating experience. Here are some tips to help you get started, considering the specific characteristics of the region Basilicata and of the municipalities in the Province of Matera:
1. Documents and Archives:
- Municipal Registry Office: Begin with the municipalities of your interest (Accettura, Aliano, Bernalda, Calciano, Cirigliano, Colobraro, Craco, Ferrandina, Grassano, Grottole, Irsina, Matera, Pisticci, Pomarico, Rotondella, Salandra, San Giorgio Lucano, San Mauro Forte, Scanzano Jonico, Stigliano, Tricarico, and all the others) to obtain birth, marriage, and death certificates with the help of a local genealogist.
- Parishes: Parishes often keep baptismal, marriage, and burial records that are older than civil registry records. Usually the religious records start since the end of 1500. Our local expert can search the parishes in the municipalities of your interest (for example, the Cathedral of Matera, the churches of Bernalda and so on).
- State Archive of Matera and Potenza: Here you may find older civil registry records, notarial acts, censuses, and other useful documents as, for example military records.
- Diocesan Archives: The archive of the Dioceses of Matera-Irsina and preserves a rich collection of ecclesiastical documents.
2. Local Sources:
- Municipal Libraries: The libraries of the various municipalities (Matera, Pisticci, Policoro, etc.) may have collections of books and local historical documents.
- Municipal Archives: Every municipality maintain historical archives with interesting documents.
- Cultural and Historical Associations: These associations often collect and preserve local documents and traditions.
3. Specifics of the Province of Matera:
- Sassi of Matera: If your ancestors came from the Sassi, you may find specific documents at the Diocesan Archive or at local parishes.
- Emigration: Many Lucanians, including the population of the Province of Matera, emigrated to America and other parts of the world. Search for information about their journey in the archives of the United States or the countries of destination.
- Earthquakes and natural disasters: Basilicata has been hit by several earthquakes that have destroyed many documents. Keep this in mind during your research.
Additional Resources:
- Local historical study centers: There are several historical study centers that deal with the history of Basilicata and the Province of Matera.
- Tourist guides and local history books: These can provide useful information about municipalities, families, and historical events.
Good luck with your research! Remember that every discovery is a small piece of a larger puzzle that will help you reconstruct your family’s history.
Note: For more specific information on a particular municipality, you can tell me the name and I will try to provide more precise details.
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