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 holds some of the region’s richest cultural treasures. Overflowing with history and customs, it reflects the remnants left behind by various civilizations throughout time.
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 nationwide. Among its earliest relics are those from the Stone Age, which make it one of the planet’s oldest known human settlements.
Are you interested in visiting Italy? Here are
some
pieces to assist with your planning
out your trip
:
- The Aeolian Islands: 7 hidden gems off the coast of Sicily worth discovering
- Italy’s most stunning architectural marvel, 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’s Enjoyment
The
heart
of humanity
The presence of ancient structures within the city indicates that Matera has housed human settlements for nearly 12,000 years. Although officially established by a Roman official in 251 BC as Matheola, the town has accommodated various groups over time up until the 15th century.
th
Throughout the century, various groups such as the Lombards, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans inhabited the city. Each group introduced their distinct cultures and lifestyles, leaving behind enduring legacies that outlasted themselves.
In 1514, Matera began playing a significant part in history. Owing to its distance from key Italian urban centers, the nobility abandoned the town, leaving the residents to fend for themselves during an era marked by severe economic hardship. Consequently, they were compelled to organize collectively to survive this challenging time and support one another. Thus, the old
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 an economically disadvantaged area, highlighting the disparity with a thriving Italy.
A mix of
modernity and ancient charm
Introduced in 1950 by the Italian government, the Matera city redevelopment initiative has revitalized this municipality. This plan aims to rejuvenate the area while maintaining its distinctive charm and beauty. Upon arriving in Matera, one immediately notices its distinct ambiance. Its winding pedestrian-only lanes showcase an array of architectural designs for homes. Standing atop the ramparts offers stunning vistas of the picturesque Italian landscape—a harmonious blend of expansive verdant fields and craggy mountain ranges.
Matera is increasingly engaging with the global community through its profound historical legacy. 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 receive the title of “European Capital of Culture,” solidifying its status internationally. The appeal for tourists visiting Matera stems from its charmingly rustic ambiance and uniquely preserved traditional environment.
Locations to visit in Matera
The
Sassi
of Matera
The town’s primary draw, the
Sassi
In Matera, you’ll find structures that are excavated into the mountainside, featuring bright white facades with windows cut out. The interiors are equally innovative, with furnishings sculpted 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 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 stream, Matera has utilized an extensive subterranean system of channels connected to a massive reservoir for collecting rainfall over many years… this site remains open for exploration. Explore beneath the heart of the city through a network of walkways and passages to uncover the methods employed for treating and redistributing the gathered water among 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 immense building is one of the most beautiful in the region. The highest point in the city, this Romanesque cathedral stands out for its rich ornamentation and its ceiling with an alternating ornamentation of engravings and paintings. At the back, you can discover a huge stone cot and an ornamental fresco, evidence of the original medieval decoration.
The Matera Cathedral
Piazza Duomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
+39 0835 332908
The canyon
Below the town, this large rent in the earth is the ideal starting point for some great hikes. You can cross it using a sturdy suspension bridge. On the other side is a path leading to the oldest cave dwellings in the region – dating back to prehistoric times. Finally, there is a church above, built entirely of rock. From the outside you can enjoy the best view of the whole of Matera.
