The sister city relationship between Potenza, Italy and Denver, Colorado was born in 1982, just two years after the devastating earthquake that struck Irpinia and brought widespread destruction to parts of Basilicata, including Potenza. Though separated by geography, the two cities share a strong and enduring friendship rooted in cultural exchange, hospitality, and mutual respect.

This long-standing partnership continues to thrive thanks to the efforts of both local governments, students, business communities, and the Centro Studi Lucani nel Mondo. Currently, six young Americans from Denver are visiting Potenza. This marks the first leg of a cultural exchange initiative, which will continue in August when a group from Potenza travels to Denver.

The visit will further strengthen the bond between the two cities, a connection also reflected in the presence of the San Rocco Association of Potenza in Denver—a tribute to the patron saint deeply venerated in Basilicata.

Pietro Simonetti, President of the Denver Sister City Committee for the Italian partnership, spoke passionately about the importance of this connection:
"I was too young to be involved when the original agreement was signed in 1982, but I went to the library in Denver and pulled out all the documents from that time. It was incredible to see the amount of work that went into creating this partnership, which has now lasted nearly 50 years. I’m proud to be here with these students, but we’re also looking to bring adult delegations and business leaders interested in investing in Basilicata. There's real interest from Americans in reconnecting with their roots—ties that have never truly disappeared but may have faded a bit over time. Now, people want to return to Italy and rediscover their heritage."

Cultural exchange plays a key role in shaping future generations. The young people of Potenza hosting the visitors from Denver gain invaluable experiences—just as they will when they visit the U.S. in return. Italian communities abroad have helped create meaningful bridges between cultures, and today’s young participants are living proof of that evolution. Even in just half a day, the excitement from the Denver group has been palpable—perhaps reinforced by the existence of Potenza Park Log in their hometown.

This initiative also offers youth in Potenza a window into a different world. Denver, a city that has seen its population double from 500,000 to over a million in recent years, represents a thriving urban landscape with opportunities not only for cultural interaction but also for commercial, industrial, and strategic collaboration. That’s why the Region of Basilicata is actively supporting the project. Tourism, too, is a central focus—yet another avenue through which these sister cities can grow closer in the years to come.