The town of Matera, etched directly into stone, stands as one of Italy’s most recognizable attractions. This historic settlement features distinctive architecture and possesses one of the region’s most remarkable cultural legacies. Laden with history and customs, it reflects remnants from various civilizations that once called it home.
The "City of the Sassi," Matera Matera stands as Italy’s longest continuously inhabited town. Situated at the center of the Basilicata area in southern Italy, this city captivates visitors with its cave dwellings and significant cultural influence across the nation. Among its ruins lie some of the earliest traces dating from prehistoric times, establishing it as one of humanity’s oldest known settlements worldwide.
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The heart of humanity
The presence of ancient structures within the city indicates that Matera has housed human settlements for nearly 12,000 years. Established by a Roman official named Matheola in 251 BC, the town continued to be inhabited by various groups up until the 15th century. th Throughout the centuries, various groups such as the Lombards, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans inhabited this city. Each group introduced their distinct cultures and lifestyles, leaving behind enduring imprints that outlasted themselves.
In 1514, Matera began playing a significant part. Owing to its isolation from key Italian urban centers, the nobility abandoned the town, leaving the residents to organize collectively amidst severe economic hardship and find ways to survive on their own. Consequently, the community relied heavily on their age-old traditions. troglodyte The residences underwent redevelopment, and new caves called Sassi were constructed directly on the mountain slope. For over four hundred years, the Sassi Matera turned into the emblem of a disadvantaged area, highlighting the disparity against a thriving Italy.
A mix of modernity and ancient charm
Initiated in 1950 by the Italian government, the Matera city redevelopment scheme has revitalized this municipality. Its primary aim is to rejuvenate the area while maintaining its distinctive charm and beauty. Upon your visit to Matera, one immediately notices an extraordinary ambiance. Winding pedestrian-only lanes showcase homes with various architectural designs. Ascending atop the ramparts offers spectacular vistas of Italy’s rural landscape—a harmonious blend of expansive verdant fields and rocky mountain ranges.
Matera is increasingly engaging with the global community through its deep historical heritage. In 1993, the town's Sassi and rock churches were designated as UNESCO The location has been named a World Heritage Site, and in 2019, this historic city will receive the designation as "European Capital of Culture," solidifying its position on the global scene. Tourism in Matera thrives due to its charmingly rustic ambiance and uniquely preserved traditions.
Locations to visit in Matera
The Sassi of Matera
The town's primary attraction, the Sassi In Matera, you'll find structures that are dug into the mountainside, featuring bright white facades and window openings. The interiors are equally inventive, with furnishings sculpted directly out of the stone and intricate carvings etched onto the walls. These cave-like homes can be explored for a minimal fee. While some remain intact in their original form, others have undergone complete renovations to serve as temporary residences or small artisan workshops.
The Palombaro Longo, the cistern in Matera
Perched atop a limestone hill distant from any flowing streams, Matera has relied for many years on an extensive subterranean system of channels connected to a massive reservoir designed to gather rainfall... a site open for exploration. Explore the heart of this city through a network of walkways and passageways to learn about the process of treating and redistributing the harvested water among the residents.
The Luigi Guerricchio belvedere
After visiting the underground passages, time to head for the roofs of Matera. From this immense terrace, you can enjoy an almost bird’s-eye view of the town centre and its many stone houses. This is the perfect place to rest during your expedition, and to capture the moment with some excellent shots.
The Duomo Cathedral of Matera
Named Madonna della Bruna e di Sant'Eustachio This massive structure ranks among the most stunning in the area. Situated at the pinnacle of the city, the Romanesque cathedral is distinguished by its elaborate embellishments and a ceiling featuring a mix of carvings and artwork. Towards the rear, visitors can observe a large stone altar and an intricate mural, remnants from the site’s ancient medieval decor.
The Matera Cathedral
Piazza Duomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
+39 0835 332908
The canyon
Beneath the town lies a significant fissure in the ground, providing an excellent beginning for fantastic hiking trails. This gap can be traversed via a robust hanging bridge. Beyond the bridge, a pathway leads to the area’s most ancient caves, which date as far back as prehistory. Above the site stands a church constructed solely from stone. The exterior offers panoramic views encompassing all of Matera.
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