Matera
Latest update: 18 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Matera, situated in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings known as the Sassi.
With a population of approximately 60,000 residents, Matera is the capital of the Matera Province. Its history dates back to prehistoric times, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Matera's Sassi districts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are its most famous feature, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at their unique architecture and rich history. |
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Matera: city of the ancients
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Basilicata is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi. Carved into limestone cliffs, these unique dwellings date back thousands of years, offering a fascinating glimpse into human history. Visitors can explore the winding streets and staircases of the Sassi districts, adorned with churches, cave homes, and artisan workshops.
The Cathedral of Matera, with its striking Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage. Nearby, the Murgia Materana Regional Park beckons with scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of the rugged landscape. Matera also hosts cultural events, such as the Matera European Capital of Culture in 2019, showcasing its vibrant arts scene and culinary traditions.
The Cathedral of Matera, with its striking Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage. Nearby, the Murgia Materana Regional Park beckons with scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of the rugged landscape. Matera also hosts cultural events, such as the Matera European Capital of Culture in 2019, showcasing its vibrant arts scene and culinary traditions.
Comune di Matera
Province: Matera
Region: Basilicata Population: 59,745 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 387 km² Elevation: 401 metres Top sights: Sassi, Rupestrian Churches, Matera Cathedral Close by: Montescaglioso, Miglionico, Ferrandina Recommended hotel: Il Belvedere Fly to: Bari Airport (84 km) Main train station: Stazione Centrale Matera (1 km from Sassi) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
Year: 1993
The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
Year: 1993
What are the most popular activities in Matera and the local area?
Matera:
Nearby Attractions:
- Sassi di Matera: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs, offering a glimpse into prehistoric human settlement.
- Matera Cathedral: Visit Matera Cathedral, a magnificent Romanesque and Baroque-style cathedral located in the heart of the Sassi district, featuring stunning architecture and beautiful interior decorations.
- Church of San Pietro Caveoso: Admire the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, a medieval church with a striking facade carved into the rock face, showcasing intricate stone carvings and frescoes.
- MUSMA: Explore the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera (MUSMA), housed in a 17th-century palace, featuring a collection of contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of ancient cave chambers.
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: Step back in time at Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a restored cave dwelling museum showcasing traditional Materan life.
Nearby Attractions:
- Gravina di Matera: Discover Gravina di Matera, a picturesque town nestled in a deep ravine, known for its ancient churches, underground tunnels, and panoramic views.
- Monte Conero: Hike or cycle through the stunning landscape of Monte Conero Regional Park, offering scenic trails, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa: Visit the charming villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, perched atop rocky cliffs in the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range, offering thrilling outdoor activities such as zip-lining and paragliding.
- Pollino National Park: Explore Pollino National Park, Italy's largest national park, renowned for its rugged mountains, deep gorges, and rich biodiversity, ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography.
- Grotta del Sole: Take a guided tour of Grotta del Sole, one of the region's most impressive caves, featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers.
What are the best restaurants in Matera?
- Ristorante Francesca: Located in the Sassi di Matera, at Via San Biagio 19, this restaurant offers traditional Basilicata cuisine in a historic setting. Dishes include homemade pasta, local meats, and desserts.
- Osteria Pico: Situated in the Sassi district at Via Fiorentini 71, this cozy osteria serves authentic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy specialties like wild boar ragu, stuffed peppers, and regional cheeses.
- Trattoria del Caveoso: Found in the Sassi district at Via Bruno Buozzi 16, this trattoria offers a rustic ambiance and serves classic dishes from Basilicata. Visitors can sample specialties such as orecchiette pasta with cime di rapa, lamb stew, and homemade desserts.
- Ristorante Il Terrazzino: Located in the heart of the Sassi di Matera at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the ancient city. The menu features a selection of regional dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options.
- Soul Kitchen: Situated in the modern part of Matera at Via del Corso 8, this restaurant offers a contemporary twist on traditional Basilicata cuisine. Dishes include creative interpretations of local ingredients, along with a selection of Italian and international wines.
What are the best places to stay in Matera?
- Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel: Located in the heart of Matera's historic centre, Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel offers guests a luxurious stay close to the town's main attractions. This boutique hotel provides elegant rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests can explore Matera's ancient cave dwellings, visit landmarks such as the Cathedral of Matera, and dine at the hotel's gourmet restaurant serving Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
- Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita: Positioned within Matera's Sassi district, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita offers guests a unique stay in restored cave dwellings dating back to the Paleolithic era. This hotel provides rustic-chic rooms with minimalist furnishings and original features, offering an immersive experience into Matera's ancient history. Guests can explore the narrow streets and alleys of the Sassi, visit nearby churches and museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hotel's terrace.
- La Dimora di Metello: Situated in Matera's Sasso Barisano, La Dimora di Metello offers guests a charming stay in renovated cave dwellings with modern comforts. This guesthouse provides cosy rooms with traditional stone walls and contemporary furnishings. Guests can explore the Sassi district, visit local artisan shops and galleries, and sample regional cuisine at nearby trattorias and cafes.
- Hotel Caveoso: Located in Matera's Sassi district, Hotel Caveoso offers guests a convenient stay with easy access to the town's attractions. This hotel provides comfortable rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Guests can explore Matera's historic centre, including the Church of San Pietro Caveoso and the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, and enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi from the hotel's terrace.
- Sant'Angelo Luxury Resort: Positioned near Matera's city centre, Sant'Angelo Luxury Resort offers guests a peaceful retreat with easy access to the town's amenities. This hotel provides modern rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and satellite TV. Guests can relax in the hotel's garden, take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, and explore Matera's nearby parks and green spaces.