Image: Wikipedia
Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings, the “Sassi”, offers a glimpse into human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Situated in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this captivating city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, revered for its historical architecture and rupestrian churches embedded within the rock. Matera captivates with its unique landscape and profound historical context, providing visitors a profound insight into a distinct blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
To best experience Matera, plan your visit during the spring or early autumn to avoid the extreme heat of summer and to enjoy the city comfortably.
Consider staying in a cave hotel for an authentic Matera experience, immersing yourself fully in the historic ambiance of the Sassi districts.
How to best experience Matera?
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Matera: The City of Caves
| Country | Italy |
| Time in Matera | GMT+1 |
| Language spoken | Italian |
| Population | 60,351 (as of the latest data from Istat.it) |
| Currency | Euro (€, EUR) |
| Airports |
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Matera, beloved as the second-oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, invites a dive into the past with its ancient cave dwellings in the famous Sassi districts. This city in Basilicata, Italy, not only boasts UNESCO World Heritage status but also holds a series of deeply ingrained histories and cultures, visible in its rock-hewn churches, labyrinthine alleyways, and stark, yet poignant architecture. Once known for poverty, Matera has transformed into a beacon of culture and hospitality, inviting travelers worldwide to explore its unique landscape and historical depth.
Where is Matera?
Matera is located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, nestled between the rugged terrains and the Ionian coast.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Rome to Matera | 285 mi (459 km) | 5 hrs 20 min |
| Naples to Matera | 165 mi (266 km) | 3 hrs 10 min |
| Bari to Matera | 42 mi (68 km) | 1 hr |
What is Matera famous for?
Matera is world-renowned for its ancient cave dwellings, or the Sassi, which are thought to be among the first human settlements in Italy. These historical habitats provide a glimpse into prehistoric times and have been used as settings for numerous films.
History
Prehistoric Period to Middle Ages
The story of Matera begins with its prehistoric cave dwellings, carved into the soft tufa rock that typifies the region. Archaeological evidence indicates that these caves, known today as “Sassi”, were inhabited as early as the Paleolithic period. Over millennia, these natural caves were expanded and developed into more complex structures. By the Middle Ages, Matera had evolved into a thriving community, its unique geological and topographical features shaping its distinct historical trajectory.
13th Century to 19th Century
Matera saw a complex socio-economic transformation beginning in the 13th century when it was under the rule of the Kingdom of Naples. The city’s architecture and urban planning were significantly influenced during this period, with many churches and monasteries being constructed. However, despite these developments, the majority of Matera’s population lived in poverty, dwelling in the ancient cave structures that provided little in the way of modern comforts.
20th Century – Present
The 20th century was a period of profound change for Matera. By the mid-1900s, the living conditions in the Sassi were considered some of the most squalid in Europe, leading to the forced displacement of the cave residents by the government in the 1950s. The area lay abandoned until the 1980s when a resurgence of interest in Matera’s historical and cultural significance sparked regeneration efforts. This culminated with the listing of the Sassi as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, recognizing their exceptional testimony to a civilizational tradition now lost in time. Today, Matera is celebrated not only for its historical heritage but also as a beacon of cultural renaissance, drawing tourists, artists, and scholars from around the globe.
Visit Matera
What to see and do in Matera
Exploring Matera offers a journey through a landscape of profound historical and aesthetic significance. Key attractions include:
- The Sassi di Matera: These ancient cave dwellings provide a window into human life spanning back to prehistoric times.
- The Rupestrian Churches: Carved from the rock, these churches are adorned with Byzantine frescoes.
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: A preserved cave house museum that offers insights into the traditional lifestyle of the Sassi inhabitants.
- MUSMA: The Museum of Contemporary Sculpture, housed in a historic cave complex, meshes modern art with ancient settings.
- The Tramontano Castle: Begun in the 16th century, this unfinished fortress offers panoramic views of the city.
Festivals and Events in Matera
Matera hosts several cultural events throughout the year, notably:
- The “Festa della Bruna” on July 2nd: A historical religious festival with a dramatic fireworks display and a procession through the city.
- “Matera European Capital of Culture 2019”: Although a year-long past event, it left a lasting legacy of cultural enrichment and yearly follow-ups.
- The “Women’s Fiction Festival”: Held annually in September, this event attracts authors, publishers, and literary agents from around the world.
Best time to visit Matera
The ideal times to visit Matera are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, making it comfortable to explore the extensive network of stone paths and stairways. The summer months, while more crowded, also buzz with festivity and offer extended evening cultural events that animate the ancient cityscape.
Is Matera worth visiting?
Without a doubt, Matera is worth visiting. Its rich tapestry of history, preserved through millennia in its unique cave dwellings and rupestrian churches, offers an unrivaled glimpse into human history and cultural development. The city’s recent cultural renaissance further enriches the visitor experience, making Matera not just a historical artifact but a living, breathing city of art and culture.