The Calabrian–Lucanian Apennines are a lichenologically insufficiently explored area. The purpose of the study was to improve the knowledge of its lichen flora in the wider context of ecology and biogeography and with regard to conservation perspectives. Our study is primarily based on recent collections but also includes comparative analyses of previous herbarium samples to verify identity; in particular a direct comparison with the CLU Herbarium (Calabria University) HLUC (Basilicata University) together with data from national collections (ORO, TO TSB the Gheza Private Collection) and international collections (Lichen Herbarium Consortium) has provided a solid taxonomic framework. A total of 102 species have been identified. The area yields a remarkable diversity of the genus Umbilicaria with 17 taxa recorded. Placidium subrufescens is recorded for the first time in Italy seven species are new records in southern Italy and 13 in the Basilicata Region. The majority of rare and infrequent lichen species appear to be glacial relics at the southern limit of their range. These southern populations are highly fragmented and localized. They are vulnerable to environmental changes and likely to suffer from climate change. The habitats that were surveyed—mainly siliceous outcrops embedded within carbonatic sequences—supported the same arctic–alpine lichen biota. The study emphasizes the high degree of the region’s biodiversity and the necessity for conservation efforts. Keywords: biodiversity; glacial relics; herbarium data; Italy; lichen biota; rarity.