Matera, Italy
When you think about Italy, you think about the history of Rome, the waterways in Venice, the beaches of Positano, and maybe even the fashionable area of Milan. But what about the third oldest city in the world? Matera, Italy, is one of a kind.
When you first arrive at the ancient city, you initially see a normal city with buildings, many cars, and hustle and bustle. It is only beyond a single wall where everything is kept in what seems to be a time capsule. It is incredible that a place so old still holds so much charm and elegance. There is plenty of parking outside of Sassi di Matera, and no cars are allowed in the city center.
Once you pass through the outer wall, it is hard to take it all in. When you start exploring, getting lost on the many cobblestone paths and tiny inset courtyards is easy. Life goes on here still, and the traditional Italian way of going slow is much slower here.
One of the most fantastic things to view is the cave churches. The Church of Saint Mary of Idris is built into the side of a giant rock and can easily be missed (as shown in the photo above). Outside of the doors of the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, you will find Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso. Another great church not to miss is Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Church. Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Church has excellent views looking back on the Stassi di Matera. If you want a unique church experience, check out Santa Lucia alle Malve, where tombs are on the roof.
The main two viewing points are Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli and Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio, which provide stunning views of Sassi. These viewpoints expand the view of the many levels and beige-washed walls. We spent only a few hours walking around the oldest living city in the world, but I wish we had stayed one night in the stunning city.
Dont forget to check out these places too!
Tramontano Castle is a massive unfinished castle on a hill overlooking the city.
Palombaro lungo is an underground tour of the cistern that used to supply water to the city.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto has a fun surprise, unlike any other Piazza.
Check out these places for a quick bite!
Lunch:
Ristorante Baccus (Open 1230-230)
Basquiat (Open 12-3, fancier food)
La Grotta nei Sassi (Open 1230-3, patio)
Pasteggiando (Open 1130-3, Pasta to go)
Gelato: I Vizi degli Angeli Laboratorio di Gelateria (Open 11-12)
The traditional dishes of Matera
The Cialledda
The Crapiata
Pane di Matera is a country-style sourdough bread
Thank you for checking out my post on Matera, Italy. I hope you found something of interest or useful. Please use the comment section for more ideas, but please don’t be rude; as always, travel on, and don’t let ancient cities fool you.