Discover the Town of Matera, one of the Oldest in the World
The south of Italy is renowned for its exceptional charm, stunning coastline, exquisite gastronomy, and welcoming people. Additionally, it is home to some of the most remarkable historical cities in the country. The ancient town of Matera is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the Paleolithic. Located in the mountainous region of Basilicata, Matera is the capital of the Province of Matera.
The main highlight of Matera is the impressive Sassi district, popular for its ancient cave dwellings that were inhabited until the mid-20th century.
Matera is an ideal destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in one of the world's most unique landscapes. Walking through the rocky streets of the Sassi di Matera, visitors will feel as if time has stood still. Gazing at the breathtaking views of the town is like observing an extraordinary oil painting, with muted colors and endless textures. Those who appreciate ancient beauty and draw inspiration from art will be delighted to explore the cultural heritage of the Sassi di Matera.
The Sassi consists of two districts of stone dwellings: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. The word "sasso" derives from the Latin "saxum," meaning stone. The Sassi are part of Matera's old town.
The most convenient way to explore the Sassi di Matera is by wandering freely along its complex network of paths, stairways, and courtyards, soaking in the authenticity and romance of this ancient town. Some streets can be quite steep and uneven, so comfortable shoes and strong legs are visitors’ best allies for an enjoyable walk through the Sassi.
WHEN TO VISIT MATERA
Matera is an all-year-round destination. However, off-season travel is preferred to explore calmly and experience the stillness radiating from this ancient city. March, April, and May are the best months to visit Matera in spring. Late September, October, and November offer an ideal autumn experience in Matera.
A stay of at least two full days is perfect for a meaningful visit, allowing travelers to explore every corner of the town and its surroundings at a relaxed pace. Watching the sunset from one of the highest spots and walking through Matera at night are two unmissable activities.
AN INSPIRING JOURNEY IN SASSI DI MATERA
Among all the fascinating spots in Sassi di Matera, touring the most inspiring views may not be as easy as it could seem. Here are some recommendations to treasure a memorable travel experience in the Sassi:
PIAZZA SAN PIETRO CAVEOSO: One of the favorite starting points for visiting the Sassi di Matera. This square is one of the top areas for capturing the essence of the city, from the Sasso Caveoso district. The views from Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, located at a relatively low altitude, offer a unique perspective over a large part of Matera. The churches of Santa Maria De Idris and San Pietro Caveoso are on one side and, on the other, a view of the Gravina River’s ravine and the Murgia Materana Park.
SANTA MARIA DE IDRIS: Sitting at the top of the Monterrone cliff, the rupestrian church of Santa Maria De Idris is one of the highlights of Matera's ancient city. Located in the Sasso Caveoso area, near the Piazza and Church of San Pietro Caveoso, this hewn-rock church is utterly impressive because of its unusual cave-shaped architecture and scenic views of the city. Santa Maria de Idris dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and paying a visit to the inside to discover its hidden gems is worthwhile.
PIAZZA DUOMO: Undoubtedly one of the best viewpoints over the Sasso Barisano quarter. Facing the maze of ancient stone streets, paths, stairs, and courtyards, the cathedral's square is an ideal place to relax and watch the beautiful sunset light reflect on the caves and rocks throughout the city. The soothing live music from local artists adds to the experience, making it a memorable visit to Matera.
VIA MURO AND FONTANA DELL'AMORE: Via Muro is a picturesque street that descends from Piazza Duomo to the Sasso Caveoso. It surrounds the district from one of the highest levels in the ancient city. The panoramic backdrop visible along this way is one of the most characteristic of the Sassi. This winding street pictures elegant stairways, arches, ancient portals, and houses carved into the rocks. At the intersection with Via San Giacomo, the Fontana dell'amore (Fountain of Love), featuring life-size bronze statues, is reminiscent of everyday life scenes in older times.
CONVENTO DI SANT'AGOSTINO: One more spot worth visiting in the Sassi is the lookout from the Convent of Saint Agostino. It offers an incredible panoramic view of Sasso Barisano with a bottom-up perspective, where the tower of Matera's Cathedral overlooks the rocky valley with its old houses at the top. Both during the day and at night, this is one of the most fascinating areas in the Sassi di Matera.
EXPLORING SASSI DI MATERA AT NIGHT
The Sassi di Matera, by day, is inspiring and magical, but by night, it becomes a fusion of mysticism and poetry. The Sassi are stunning at any time, although nights are utterly awe-inspiring and worth feeling the charming atmosphere in every corner of the town. A relaxing after-dinner walk through the streets of the Sassi can eventually end in Piazza Duomo, with its magnificent scenery overlooking the old town.
The panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera are more prominent at dusk thanks to the soft illumination over the stone dwellings. Lights and shadows blend, forming a unique panorama that will awaken the senses of any visitor. The silence at night, only broken by the echoing murmurs of the people spending time al fresco on the rooftops and courtyards of the ancient constructions, creates a particular moody ambiance, shrouding the entire town.
SASSI DI MATERA: A STORY OF DECAY AND FLOURISHING
The history behind the Sassi di Matera is as remarkable as its location and aesthetics. The Sassi, as it currently stands, emerged only a few decades ago, despite being among the first human settlements in Italy and, probably, in the world. The earliest records date back to prehistoric times. Evidence shows that people have inhabited the Sassi since 7000 BCE.
In the 1950s, the Sassi districts in Matera were considered areas of severe poverty. Its inhabitants endured harsh and unhealthy living conditions, which led to the forced relocation of the population to newer, more developed parts of the city. For decades, the Sassi remained uninhabited and were regarded as a national disgrace. It wasn't until the 1980s that the government began restoring the Sassi di Matera.
Since then, Matera’s flourishing period began, and the Sassi regained their former glory. In 1993, it became a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. And in 2019, Matera was appointed the European Capital of Culture. Nowadays, the Sassi area is inhabited again by locals. Many thriving hotels and regional restaurants have also settled lately to encourage travelers from near and far to visit and discover all the precious treasures of Matera.
Besides the Sassi, Matera has much more to offer. Outside the ancient town, Matera city is worth a stroll to uncover all its beauty. Basilicata is also known for being an off-the-beaten-path area and the door to the celebrated Puglia region. This land grants endless options for travelers to continue exploring Southern Italy.
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