Matera: The City of Stone
Matera is not just a city—it’s a story carved in stone, a blend of history and magic that captivates both the eye and the soul. Walking through its alleyways feels like stepping into a suspended time, filled with ancient caves, rock-cut architecture, and meaningful silence.
European Capital of Culture in 2019 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera is today a symbol of cultural rebirth and authentic beauty, offering unforgettable experiences to every traveler.
The Sassi and the Historic Center
The beating heart of Matera lies in its famous “Sassi”: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. These districts, carved directly into limestone, make up one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.
Wandering through winding stairways, natural terraces, and cave dwellings, you breathe in the city’s truest soul.
Next to the Sassi, the historic center opens up with elegant palaces, Romanesque churches, and lively squares full of craftsmanship and tradition. The whole creates a unique urban landscape that has fascinated international filmmakers and continues to amaze visitors.
Rock Churches and the Murgia Park
One of Matera’s most captivating features is its spirituality carved into stone. The over 150 rock-hewn churches scattered across the city and the Murgia—such as Santa Maria de Idris, San Pietro Barisano, and the Crypt of the Original Sin—are true masterpieces of art and faith.
Just outside the city center, the Murgia Materana Park offers breathtaking views: canyons, prehistoric caves, and wild nature trails overlooking the city, creating unforgettable sights at sunset. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, photography, and poetic inspiration.
Culinary Tradition
Matera is also a journey of flavor. Local taverns and restaurants offer a simple and genuine cuisine made with local ingredients: IGP-certified Matera bread, aged cheeses, legumes, handmade pasta, and the famous peperoni cruschi (crunchy dried peppers).
Alongside tradition, a vibrant cultural scene is growing: the MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture), film festivals, open-air shows in the Sassi, and artisan workshops all tell the story of a city in constant evolution—suspended between memory and innovation.
