History
Our story
From the roots of a convent to a story that continues.
There are places that change shape, but never stop welcoming. Al Convento is one of them.
Origins
Once upon a time,
Peppe's trattoria
In the ancient square where the Bed & Breakfast stands, there was once a Franciscan convent. That is the origin of the name.
In the early twentieth century these spaces became a trattoria. It was known as "da Peppe". You entered from Piazza San Michele Arcangelo, through the arch. Inside were simple tables and Lucan wine. Outside, the life of the neighbourhood.
Over time it became a well-known restaurant. Painters, writers and directors sat at those tables, bringing their art to this place.
1980
The interruption
The earthquake struck Basilicata.
The trattoria closed.
For years that door remained closed. The place, which had for so long welcomed voices and presences, entered a long silence.
Twenty years later
The De Angelis family
reopens the door
After more than twenty years, the De Angelis family reopened that door.
Today Al Convento is a Bed & Breakfast: seven rooms, the same square, a hospitality that has resumed its old rhythm. Slower, quieter, but of the same nature.
The first guests came from far away, from Pergola in the Marche region. Since then, guests have arrived from all over.
Archive / present
The same spot in the square, observed at two different moments.
The square
The fixed point
of this story
Piazza San Michele Arcangelo is the first space that welcomes those who arrive.
The square has not changed.
This is where one entered then.
This is where one enters today.
The Piazza San Michele Arcangelo remains the fixed point of this story.
Potenza is a city of middle altitude, of fine, windy air. It has a discreet grace, that does not impose itself.
Guido Piovene