Click it and Unblock the Notifications
The ancient city of Matera is located in the province of Puglia's Basilicata region in Sothern Italy. This antiquated city is on the edge of a ravine that has a river, now reduced into a stream called La Gravina. The gorgeous Basilicata city cradles its capital of Matera which has been home to somebody for 9000 years. Listed one of the oldest cities in the world, Matera is an abode for traditionally dug caves. The entire city is built on rocks and consists of caves with natural underground cisterns. The spiraling passageways, steep stairways and cave hotels make Matera one of the most stunning, behind the times city of Italy.
Settlers have etched their dwellings straight into the Calcarentic rock (Limestone), a hallmark of Basilicata and Apulia since the Paleolithic era. This haunting and beautiful city was once called the 'Shame of Italy', due to its poor planning. Matera suffered extreme poverty in the 1800s. Half of its population was relocated to the upper part of the city by the Italian Government. It was in 1993 that Matera was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being, "the most outstanding example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean".
Matera is famous for cave hotels
Matera is a famous tourist attraction for its cave hotels. Where the rooms are actual caves. Perfect bucket list place for families, couples and solo travelers. Depending on the seasons, the rooms can get a little humid with interconnected family rooms. Matera offers accommodations from high to lower budget. All these cave rooms have arched ceilings and proper ventilation. With 10 millennia of history, this city has many layers to it. So you can expect it to be a little over the dark side. The cave dwellings are prominent in Sassi di Matera, which translates into Stones of Matera. The incredible Sassi districts consist of original empty caves with beautifully planned homely structure. The beguiling architecture looks almost unreal. From tumbling rooftops and weather worn walls, Matera has come a long way.
European capital of culture
Today, it is the European capital of culture. One can state Matera as a crown Jewel of Italy. This labyrinth of this city is a natural film set. From James Bond's 'No time to die'; Mel Gibson's 'Passion of Christ' (crucifixion scene) and also appeared as the Amazon city of Themyscura in 'Wonder Women'. The best view of Sassi di Matera is from the opposite side of the ravine. An area called La Belvedere di Mugia Timone. From across the canyon, the view of Sassi is breathtaking.
Best way to explore Matera
The best way to explore Matera is by foot. Most of the tourist attractions are connected and traceable back to the city centre. One can just get lost in this wonderful city. There are many things you can do in Matera. If you ask me, the first one is getting lost. I can also tell you how to do it. Start walking from Sassi downwards; you will reach Sassi caveno, the lower part of the town, where empty caves are found. It's thought to have 8-10 layers of houses and the floor of the cave you are standing might as well be the roof of an embellished rock church below you.
Store of aromatic herbs
If you walk upside the city, you will find many exotic places, pavement-side cafes and aromatic herb stores. Matera is also called as the underground city because of a 16th-century underground water cistern, The Palomboro Lungo, excavated in the early 1990s. There are many underground water cisterns in Matera but this one is the largest. Carved with rock pillars, it is 50 meter underground. Marvelously navigable by a boat and can hold up to 5 million liters of water. There are around 140 rock -cut Roman and baroque churches in and round Matera. Like, St. Anthony church, Church of Purgatory etc. You can also learn about the history of Matera in Casa nova. Among the trekking peaks in Matera, the most beautiful one is the view from Belvedere di Piazza.
Matera- A typical reconstruction of the 20th-century cave dwelling.
This city has an old soul. Its stones breathe air. Like Casa Crotta di vico Solitario. A typical reconstruction of the 20th century cave dwelling. Its open every day from 9:30 AM to 8 PM. Entrance fee is 5 Euro for adults and 3 euro for groups with a guide. This town almost looks surreal during all seasons of the year. Pretty Palazzos, delicious pizzas and rock churches in the western part of the town known as Piano (plateau). Matera is a best place to visit in Italy, if you want to catch the reality while it is ticking away. One can only bow down at the dramatic tangle of stones of this glorious city.
How to get to Matera, Italy?
Matera is 250kms from Naples. The closest airport is 40 miles away. You will have to take a flight into Bari in the neighboring Puglia region. If you hire a car, you have to park in the new Port of Matera as driving in old town Matera is restricted.
How to not confuse Matera and Basilicata in Italy?
They look the same with all their over the top hilly stony display of beautifully carved homes and hotels. Just like Matera, Basilicata is a hilly town in Italy. Looks just like Matera with its stony dominance but it's not. Matera is too deeply rooted to be copied. This hilly part of Italy, Basilicata is, it also known as Lucania, is a region located in the southern part of Italy, bordered by Calabria, Campania, and Apulia. It is an area of great natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, known for its rolling hills, rugged coastline, and charming medieval towns.
The region's history can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of the Greeks and Romans, who left behind numerous archaeological sites, including the famous ruins of Metaponto and the Roman city of Grumentum. During the Middle Ages, Basilicata was ruled by various feudal lords, who left their mark on the region through the construction of castles, churches, and monasteries.
Most notable attractions in Basilicata
One of the most notable attractions in Basilicata is the Parco Nazionale del Pollino, a large national park that covers a significant portion of the region's territory. This park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals, and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Another popular attraction in Basilicata is the Sassi di Matera, a unique complex of cave dwellings that have been carved into the cliffs of the region's towns. The Sassi are considered one of the most remarkable examples of ancient human habitation, and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area has also been the backdrop for many famous movies, including "The Passion of the Christ" and "Ben-Hur".
The cuisine of Basilicata is simple, hearty, and based on the use of locally-sourced ingredients, such as olive oil, fresh vegetables, and cured meats. Some of the most popular dishes in the region include orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, meat-stuffed eggplant, and roasted lamb.
City of the finest red wines
Basilicata is also known for its delicious wines, including Aglianico, which is produced in the region's vineyards and is considered one of the finest red wines in Italy. Despite its beauty and rich history, Basilicata is often overlooked by tourists, who tend to flock to more well-known destinations in Italy such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. However, for those who take the time to explore the region, Basilicata offers a unique and authentic Italian experience, complete with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a rich cultural heritage.
Basilicata is a hidden gem in southern Italy that offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its rolling hills, rugged coastline, charming medieval towns, and delicious cuisine, it is a must-visit destination for those who are looking for a truly authentic Italian experience.
