From a ‘dirty city’ to UNESCO Heritage
Matera has a history as fascinating as its dramatic landscape. Once considered one of the poorest and most neglected parts of the country, Matera was known for its cave dwellings, the Sassi di Matera, which were often seen as a symbol of poverty. In the mid-20th century, many residents were relocated due to poor living conditions, and the sassi were largely abandoned. However, through concerted preservation efforts, Matera transformed from a forgotten relic to a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, and eventually, the European Capital of Culture in 2019.
Sassi di Matera
The Sassi di Matera are the city’s crown jewels, comprising two main districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, carved into the rocky cliffs. These ancient cave dwellings date back thousands of years and include homes, churches, and complex tunnel systems. A visit to the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario offers insight into what life was like inside these cave homes. The rock churches, such as Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Barisano, highlight the city’s unique blend of natural and human-made architecture. For incredible views, head to Belvedere di Murgia Timone, which provides a panoramic perspective of Matera and its limestone landscape.
Food in Matera
Dining in Matera is a sensory delight, with as local favorites restaurant tip osteria Al Casale serving traditional dishes like orecchiette con cime di rapa (pasta with turnip tops) and peperoni cruschi (crispy peppers). For a sweet bite, try strazzate materane, almond-based cookies that pair perfectly with an espresso. Make sure to sample pane di Matera, a bread so beloved that it has a protected status for its unique taste and texture.
Accommodation in Matera
To truly soak in Matera’s atmosphere, stay at the Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, a luxurious hotel set in the restored sassi caves.
Another highly recommended unique stay located in the heart of the Sassi is Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort. This hotel offers historic cave rooms with an authentic yet refined atmosphere. It’s a family-run business set up as an ‘albergo diffuso’ or a hotel with rooms spread around the town. Have dinner at their wonderful terrace overlooking the Old Sassi and find yourself in a dreamy movie scene.
For a boutique experience, Palazzo Gattini offers elegance and views over the ancient city. Budget travelers can check out Il Belvedere, which has beautiful terraces overlooking fascinating landscape.
Accessibility to the city
Matera is accessible by train or bus from nearby Bari, which has an airport connecting to major European cities; from Bari, it’s just an hour and a half by car or public transport, making Matera a rewarding and reachable destination.
Be aware that the historic city center and the Sassi of Matera are pedestrian areas located in a limited traffic zone. So if you come by car, you will have to park outside of the center and get there by foot. Wear comfortable sneakers to get around comfortably on the stones, high heels are not recommended.