The town of Matera, etched right into the 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. Overflowing with history and traditions, it showcases remnants from various civilizations that once called it home.
The “City of the Sassi,”
Matera
Matera stands as the longest continuously inhabited town in Italy. Situated at the center of the Basilicata area in southern Italy, this city attracts visitors with its distinctive rock-cut architecture and significant cultural influence across the nation. Among its earliest relics are those from the Stone Age, which makes Matera one of the oldest known human settlements globally.
Are you interested in visiting Italy? Here are
some
pieces to assist you with planning
out your trip
:
- The Aeolian Islands: 7 hidden gems offshore Sicily you should discover
- One of Italy’s most stunning architectural wonders and a emblem of the Italian Renaissance.
- This route in the Dolomites will lead you through stunning vistas.
- The 15 Most Stunning Beaches in Italy for This Summer Enjoyment
The
heart
of humanity
The presence of ancient structures within the city demonstrates that Matera has hosted human settlements for nearly 12,000 years. Established by a Roman official named Matheola in 251 BC, the town has accommodated various groups over time up until the 15th century.
th
Throughout the centuries, various groups such as the Lombards, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans inhabited the city. Each group introduced their distinct cultures and lifestyles, leaving lasting imprints that endured long after they were gone.
In 1514, Matera began playing a significant part in regional affairs. Owing to its isolation from key Italian urban centers, the nobility abandoned the area, leaving the residents to fend for themselves amidst severe economic hardship. Consequently, they were compelled to organize collectively to survive this challenging era and support one another. Thus, the community relied heavily on their age-old traditions.
troglodyte
The residences underwent redevelopment, and new caves called
Sassi
were constructed directly on the mountainside. For over four hundred years, the
Sassi
Matera emerged as the emblem of a disadvantaged region, standing in stark contrast to a thriving Italy.
A mix of
modernity and ancient charm
Launched in 1950 by the Italian government, the Matera urban development project has given the town a new lease of life. The explicit goal is to breathe new life into the region while preserving the traditional and unique character that makes it so beautiful. When visiting Matera, you quickly realise that it has a very special atmosphere. Narrow, car-free streets from which you can see houses in all styles. From the top of the walls, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Italian countryside – a balance between vast green plains and rugged mountains.
Matera is increasingly engaging with the global community through its profound historical heritage. In 1993, the city’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 be crowned as the “European Capital of Culture,” solidifying its position on the global scene. The allure of tourism in Matera hinges on its charmingly rustic ambiance and uniquely preserved cultural heritage.
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 windows. The interiors are equally innovative, with furnishings hewn directly from the stone and intricate carvings etched onto the walls. These cave-like homes can be explored for mere pennies. While some remain intact in their original condition, others have undergone complete renovation to serve as temporary residences or small artisan workshops.
The Palombaro Lungo, the cistern in Matera
Sat upon a limestone mountain far from any running water, Matera has for centuries used an immense underground network of canals linked to a huge cistern that collects rainwater… which you can visit. Dive into the belly of the city via a series of pontoons and tunnels to discover how the collected water was treated and then redistributed to the inhabitants.
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 colossal 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 admire a massive stone altar and decorative murals, 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 numerous hiking trails. A robust suspension bridge allows you to traverse this gap. Beyond the bridge, a trail leads to the area’s most ancient cave dwellings—dating from prehistoric eras. Above it all stands a church constructed entirely out of stone, offering panoramic views of Matera when viewed externally.