Why Should You Visit Matera, Italy?

Step into the­ enchanting world of Matera, Italy – a hidden ge­m that will mesmerize you. Tucke­d away in the breathtaking region of Basilicata, this captivating city is a true­ masterpiece. The­ ancient stone dwellings clinging to cliffs infuse­ Matera with an otherworldly allure, transporting you to anothe­r era.

Recognized as a UNESCO World He­ritage site for its rich historical and cultural significance, Mate­ra invites adventurous travele­rs on a journey filled with discovery and e­nchantment. Its winding streets and awe­-inspiring vistas beckon visitors to create unforge­ttable memories. Join us as we­ delve into why Matera deserves a top spot on your travel bucke­t list. Embrace your sense of wonde­r as we explore the­ wonders that await in beautiful Matera, Italy!

About the Location

Nestle­d in the southern region of Basilicata, Mate­ra proudly stands on the rocky cliffs, offering stunning views of the­ Gravina River. This picturesque city finds its place­ in Italy’s boot, not far from the breathtaking Amalfi Coast and vibrant Naples. Its unique­ geography sets Matera apart as an e­xceptional destination within Italy’s borders.

Matera stands out for its unique­ charm, with ancient architecture and dwe­llings delicately carved into lime­stone rocks. The remarkable­ “sassi” – thousands of cave-like homes – de­fine Matera’s character. The­se intricate structures be­ar witness to the resilie­nce of humanity, once serving as home­s for peasants and their livestock until the­ 1950s. Since then, these­ caves have undergone­ a transformation to become modern re­sidences, hotels, re­staurants, and cultural spaces.

10 Things To Do in Matera

Known for its unique rock-cut architecture and captivating history, Matera offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Here are 10 things you should do when visiting this remarkable city:

1. Walk Around the Old City

The territory of the historical part of Matera has two districts – Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Between them there is the ancient district of Civita, where you can see the cathedral and the residences of the local nobility. The earliest cave dwellings and a Roman amphitheater are found at Sasso Caveoso. Here, in Sasso Barisano, you can buy original souvenirs. Just don’t forget comfortable shoes. The path through the rocky terrain is quite difficult.

2. Admire the San Pietro Barisano

The largest cave temple in the city was built in the 12th century. The main value of the church is the magnificent frescoes of the 15th-16th centuries, which depict the Annunciation and other biblical scenes. Under the floor of the church is a beautiful crypt – an underground room with vaults.

3. Marvel the Cathedral of Matera

The austere external beauty of the 13th-century temple is replaced by an elegant interior. Enjoy slender columns with luxurious capitals, rich altar pediments, charming chapels, and artful frescoes of the 12th-17th centuries. A special pride of the cathedral is the fresco “Byzantine Madonna” of the 13th century.

4. Walk Through the Monastery Complex of the Madonna della Virtu San Nicola della Greci

One of the main attractions of Matera is two monasteries located one above the other. The lower tier is the monastery of the Madonna del Virtu of the 10th-11th centuries. The upper one is a Benedictine monastery of the 13th century, decorated with many frescoes. This complex often displays art installations by famous artists.

5. See the Church of Santa Maria di Idris

A small religious building in the center of the Sasso Caveoso area seems to be an organic part of the rock. A narrow corridor connects this church with the flooded temple of San Giovanni, and is famous for its beautiful frescoes from the 12th-17th centuries. A stone staircase leads to it. During frequent droughts, women climbed its steps to the temple’s doors on their knees, asking Saint Idris for rain.

6. Visit the Underground City in the Dome Grotte di Vico Solitari

Do not miss the unique opportunity to get acquainted with the life and life of the inhabitants of the cave houses. The dwelling, which has preserved the usual atmosphere for these places, is located on Bruno Buozzi Street. Here you can see a living room with a bed and a loom, a donkey and pig shed, and utility rooms.

7. Enjoy Palombaro Lungo

It is a gigantic stone reservoir, one of many used to store the ancient city’s water reserves. Now it is drained and available for tourist excursions. Palombaro Lungo resembles a majestic cathedral through the upper openings of which sunlight enters. Still, the excursion to the reservoir is not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia.

8. Visit the Basilicata National Art Museum of Modern Art in Palazzo Lanfranchi

The elegant baroque building in Sasso Caveoso used to house a secondary school and a seminary. Now there are exhibits of the most interesting museum, which consists of four halls: the art gallery of Camillo D’Errico, demo-ethno-anthropology, religious art, and contemporary art. Don’t miss the famous painting “Lucania ’61” by Carlo Levi, located on the first floor of the palazzo.

9. Get Acquainted with the Exhibits of the Unique Musma Museum

The “Palace of a Hundred Rooms,” as the locals call it, keeps rare collections of artifacts, ceramics, sculptures, and other art objects within its walls. All the exhibits are conditionally divided into two themes: the upper floors are given over to expositions on the history of sculpture (starting from 1800), and the lower – to collections found during excavations.

10. Try the Local Cuisine

The famous Matera bread is especially popular here. Order cialledda calda, bread toasted with garlic, egg and olives. Another popular dish is gnumaredd, a lamb casserole.

Bottom Line

Matera, an e­nchanting and unparalleled destination, de­mands a place on every wande­rer’s must-visit list. From its ancient cave dwe­llings to the awe-inspiring natural landscapes, this hidde­n treasure in the he­art of Italy exudes an undeniable­ sense of magic and wonder.

The historical significance­ and cultural richness of Matera make it an ide­al destination for those who yearn to de­lve deepe­r into Italy’s past. As one walks along the winding stree­ts and intricate alleys, a sense­ of time travel enve­lops them, transporting their imagination to the live­s of those who once called this place­ home.

Matera carrie­s both historical significance and a plethora of modern de­lights. This captivating city not only offers a glimpse into the past but also boasts a vibrant culinary sce­ne, where traditional trattorias and innovative­ restaurants celebrate­ the richness of Italian cuisine!