Located in the heart of Basilicata, Matera enchants visitors with its unique and suggestive landscape, made of ancient stones and caves that intertwine in a fascinating labyrinth of history and culture. This city, known as the "city of stones", is a real timeless treasure treasure, where every corner tells millennial stories of human settlements. Walking through its narrow and winding streets is like making a journey into the past, between houses dug in the rock, churches and ancient frescoes that retain a spiritual and artistic heritage of great value. The hot light of the sunset that is reflected on the stone facades creates a magical and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in an authentic and exciting experience. Matera is also a place of great cultural liveliness: it hosts events, festivals and exhibitions that celebrate its history and traditions. His cuisine, full of genuine flavors, combines simple but rich in taste dishes, perfect to be enjoyed in one of the many typical restaurants. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, a historical heritage of invaluable value and a welcoming and warm atmosphere makes Matera a unique destination of its kind, capable of leaving an indelible memory in the heart of those who visit it. A trip to Matera is an experience that remains impressed, a dip in an authentic and timeless world.
Sassi di Matera, UNESCO Heritage
The ** stones of Matera ** represent one of the most fascinating and iconic World Heritage Heritage recognized by UNESCO, a symbol of an ancient history and a unique landscape in the world. Located in the heart of the city of Matera, these ancient neighborhoods are made up of rock settlements dug in the limestone rock, which testify to a millennial way of life and an extraordinary ability to adapt to natural resources. Their origin dates back to the prehistoric era, and over the centuries have hosted communities of shepherds, peasants and craftsmen, still preserving the testimonies of an invaluable cultural heritage. The peculiarity of the stones lies in their architecture dug in the rock, with houses, churches and shops that harmoniously integrate into the natural landscape, creating a real village suspended between past and present. Their importance goes beyond the historical and architectural aspect: the stones are an extraordinary example of resilience and cultural continuity, which has attracted the attention of tourists and scholars from all over the world. Their designation as a UNESCO heritage in 1993 contributed to protecting and enhancing them, promoting conservation and redevelopment interventions that have returned to Matera its role as cultural capital. Visiting the stones means immersing yourself in a place where history, art and nature merge into a unique experience, capable of exciting and surprising every visitor.
Experiences in Matera
Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso district
Located in the heart of Matera, the ** Palombaro Long ** represents one of the most fascinating testimonies in the ancient history of the city, offering visitors an immersive experience in the past. This ** ancient cistern **, dug in the limestone rock, dates back to several centuries ago and was part of the complex water supply system of Matera. With a length of over 60 meters and an estimated capacity of about 5,000 cubic meters of water, ** Long Palombaro ** was strategically located under Piazza Vittorio Veneto, in the historic center, to guarantee a safe and constant water supply to the local population. Its structure, consisting of robust walls and imposing arches, testifies to the engineering skills of the ancient inhabitants of Matera, who managed to create a work of great engineering without the help of modern technologies. Today, this cistern is open to the public and represents a mandatory stop for those who visit the city of Sassi, offering a charming walk between the stories of a remote past and ancient construction techniques. The visit to ** Palombaro Long ** allows you to discover not only an example of hydraulic engineering, but also to immerse yourself in the atmospheres of the historic Matera, among its millenary walls and its legends. A place that, thanks to its historical importance and its timeless charm, enriches each cultural itinerary in the city of the Sassi.
Church of San Pietro Barisano
The neighborhood ** Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso ** represent the heart Matera button, offering a fascinating glimpse of history and culture that has its roots in antiquity. These two neighborhoods, located on the famous Gravina, are characterized by a succession of ** tuff houses **, rock churches and narrow alleys that create a labyrinth of picturesque and suggestive views. Sasso Caveoso, with his homes dug in the rock and hidden squares, transmits a sense of mystery and authenticity, while Sasso Barisano stands out for its more recent but equally fascinating structures, with historic churches and noble palaces that testify to the rich past of this area. Walking through these streets you can admire the Catadrale di Matera, which stands between the roofs, and visit the numerous rock churches such as the ** church of San Pietro Barisano ** and that of Santa Maria de Idris, authentic masterpieces of religious art. Both neighborhoods have been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and constitute the ideal starting point to discover the millennial history of Matera. Their unique atmosphere, made of suggestive views and an architecture that seems to have come out of another era, attracts thousands of visitors every year eager to immerse themselves in an authentic and out of time experience. These neighborhoods are also the fulcrum of cultural events and local traditions, which make Matera a destination of great charm and interest.
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
The ** Church of San Pietro Barisano ** represents one of the most fascinating and suggestive jewels of Matera, inserted in the UNESCO heritage and witness of the rich spiritual history of the city. Located in the Caveoso stone, this rock church dates back to the thirteenth century and stands out for its extraordinary architecture carved into the limestone rock, which creates a unique and mystical atmosphere. The modest entrance conceals a surprising interior, with a sober but rich in historical and religious details, including frescoes dating back to different periods and architectural elements that testify to the evolution of the Church over the centuries. The structure develops on several levels, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a real journey through time, between ancient walls and deep spirituality. The chiesa of San Pietro Barisano is also an exceptional example of how man has been able to adapt the natural environment to his devotion, creating a cult space that integrates harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. It is a place of great interest not only for fans of history and religious art, but also for those who want to discover a more authentic and less known aspect of Matera. Its strategic position and intrinsic charm make the visit an unforgettable experience, perfect for those who want to deepen the cultural and spiritual roots of this unique city in the world.
Long Palombaro, ancient cistern
The ** Casa Grotta di Vico Solitaria ** represents one of the most authentic and fascinating symbols of Matera, offering visitors an immersion in the past and traditions of the city of Sassi. Located in one of the most suggestive neighborhoods, this ancient home carved into the rock allows you to rediscover the daily life of the inhabitants of the past, with restricted environments and simple but rich in history furnishings. Entering the house, you can admire how it was a real _museo living, with everyday objects, stone utensils and artisan furniture that testify to the ingenious ability of the inhabitants to adapt to difficult life conditions. The visit to the Vico Lonely Grotto House offers an engaging experience, which allows you to better understand the challenges faced by the residents of the past and their relationship with nature and the surrounding environment. The rustic atmosphere and the authenticity of the environments make this stage unmissable for those who want to deepen their knowledge of Matera culture and its origins. The strategic position in the heart of the stones allows you to easily integrate this visit with other cultural and panoramic paths of the area, making the experience even more complete and suggestive. Visiting the ** Casa Grotta di Vico Lonely ** means immersing yourself in an ancient world, leaving room for reflection on the history and traditions of this extraordinary city.
Cathedral of Matera, Duomo
The ** cathedral of Matera **, also known as Duomo di Matera, is one of the most symbols representative of the city and a fascinating example of religious architecture in the heart of Basilicata. Located on the top of the colle di Matera, this imposing church dates back to the thirteenth century, even if it has undergone numerous restoration and expansion interventions over the following centuries, which have enriched its appearance and charm. The stone facade, simple but majestic, fits harmoniously into the urban landscape and invites visitors to explore the interiors rich in history and spirituality. Inside, you can admire frescoes from medieval times and sacred works of art of great value, testimony to the long religious tradition of the city. The Catadrale di Matera is not only a place of worship, but also a real cultural heritage, which tells centuries of history through its structures and artistic details. Its panoramic position also offers breathtaking views of the ancient city and the surrounding landscape, making the visit a complete and suggestive experience. The Church also represents a point of reference for pilgrims and tourists who wish to immerse themselves in the spirituality and history of Matera, helping to consolidate its role as a witness of culture and faith in southern Italy. Visiting the Matera_ Catedrale means entering a place of peace and reflection, surrounded by an artistic and historical heritage of priceless value.
Medieval National Museum of Art
The ** National Museum of Medieval Art ** of Matera represents an essential stage for those who want to immerse themselves in the rich art of the city. Located in the heart of the historic center, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of works and artifacts that date from the IX to the fifteenth century, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the past. Among his most significant exhibitions, there are paintings, sculptures, manuscripts and liturgical objects that testify to the importance of Matera as a cultural and religious center during the Middle Ages. The museum structure allows you to admire unique pieces, such as ancient miniator codes, relics and icons, many of which come from the churches and monasteries of the region. The exhibition itinerary is designed to encourage engaging experience, enriched by detailed information panels and by an environment that preserves the charm of the medieval era intact. Visiting the national medieval art museo also means discovering how art and religion intertwined in the cultural fabric of Matera, helping to define the historical identity of the city. Its strategic position and attention to the conservation of the pieces make the museum an ideal destination for fans of art, history and culture. In conclusion, this institution represents a hidden treasure that enriches the cultural offer of Matera, offering an educational and suggestive experience for all visitors eager to deepen the medieval roots of this charming city.
Murgia Materana park
The ** Park of Murgia Materana ** represents one of the most fascinating and suggestive attractions of Matera, offering a unique experience immersed in the nature and history of this region. Located at the foot of the famous ** stones of Matera **, the park extends over an area of about 10,000 hectares, characterized by a karst landscape rich in caves, canyons and spectacular rock formations. Its historical-archaeological importance is remarkable, since it hosts numerous rock settlements, churches and monasteries dating back to different periods, which testify to the ancient human presence in the territory. _ The Murgia_ Park_ is also a natural heritage of great value: its ecosystem hosts numerous species of indigenous flora and fauna, making the ideal place for trekking lovers, hiking and birdwatching. The well -reported paths allow you to explore the wonders of wild nature, offering panoramic views of Matera and on the surrounding valley. The presence of ** rock churches ** decorated and ancient settlements makes the park a real open -air museum, perfect for those who want to deepen the history and spirituality of the place. Its strategic position and its wild beauty make it an essential stop for those who visit Matera, eager to discover a corner of nature and authentic culture and outside the most beaten paths.
Events: Bruna Festival
The ** Feast of the Bruna ** of Matera represents one of the most iconic and heartfelt events in the city, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. Celebrated on July 2, this tradition has its roots in the thirteenth century and stands out for its mix of history, religiosity and entertainment. The main event takes place in the morning, when the streets of Matera come alive with a parade of allegorical floats, between music, dances and traditional costumes. The most awaited moment is the procession of the statue of the Madonna della Bruna, which crosses the historic center, accompanied by faithful and folk groups. The party culminates in the afternoon, when the wagon, a symbol of devotion and local culture, is traditionally destroyed in an act of renewal and renewed faith, thus starting a moment of collective joy and renewed hope. During this day, the squares and streets of Matera fill with stalls, live music, shows and fireworks, creating a unique and engaging atmosphere. The ** Festa della Bruna ** is not only a moment of religious celebration, but also an opportunity to discover the traditions and history of Matera, making this experience unmissable for those who visit the city. Participating in this party means immersing yourself in a lively cultural heritage, which combines faith, art and community in a single, unforgettable celebration.
Rich Typical Lucanian cuisine
Matera is not only a masterpiece of architecture and history, but also a true paradise for lovers of the Ricca typical Lucanian cuisine. The gastronomy of this region stands out for its authentic flavors, rooted in ancient traditions linked to the land and the sea. Among the most representative dishes stands the cavatica, a homemade pasta, often served with meat sauces or seasonal vegetables, which tells the simplicity and authenticity of the local cuisine. We cannot speak of Matera without mentioning the lampredotto, a highly appreciated street food, prepared with a cattle interior, slowly cooked in aromatic broth and serve with crunchy bread. The salsiccia Lucana, spiced and tasty, often accompanies traditional dishes, while the paddeds padded_ are a beloved appetizer, stuffed with meat and bread, baked in the oven until golden brown. The region is also known for local _Formages, like the Pecorino Lucano, seasoned and with an intense taste, perfect to be enjoyed with homemade bread. For the greedy, there is no shortage of the typical sweets, like the cartellate, desserts based on puff pastry dipped in the Vin saint and decorated with honey or sugar, symbol of holidays and tradition. The Lucanian cuisine of Matera is a real sensory journey, capable of fascinating with its authentic flavors and giving an unforgettable gastronomic experience, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in local culture through the pleasures of the palate.
