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Matera, a city of timeless beauty in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, stands as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. Known as the “City of Stones,” Matera captivates visitors with its unique landscape of cave dwellings, ancient churches, and winding stone streets. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into 9,000 years of human history and showcases the rich tapestry of Southern Italian culture.

Best Places to Visit

• Sassi di Matera: The heart of the city, these ancient cave dwellings are divided into two districts: Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. Visitors can explore the labyrinth of stone houses, churches, and cisterns carved into the rocky hillside.
• Piazza Vittorio Veneto: The main square of modern Matera, offering a stunning view over the Sassi and serving as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
• Matera Cathedral: A beautiful Romanesque-Apulian style church overlooking the Sassi, featuring stunning frescoes and intricate stone carvings.
• MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture): Housed in a 16th-century palace, this unique museum showcases modern art within ancient cave settings.
• Palombaro Lungo: An enormous underground water cistern, offering guided tours that reveal Matera’s ingenious water management system.

Things to See and Do

• Wander through the narrow alleys of the Sassi, discovering hidden courtyards and ancient rock churches.
• Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a recreated cave dwelling that shows how people lived in the Sassi until the 1950s.
• Explore the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, featuring over 150 rock churches with ancient frescoes.
• Take a guided tour of a local bakery to learn about Matera’s traditional bread-making techniques.
• Enjoy a sunset aperitivo on a terrace overlooking the stunning Sassi landscape.
• Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make Matera’s famous orecchiette pasta and other local specialties.
• Visit during the “Festa della Bruna” on July 2nd, Matera’s most important religious and cultural celebration.
• Explore the Cripta del Peccato Originale, known as the “Sistine Chapel of rupestrian art,” featuring 8th-century frescoes.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Matera is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). These months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

Summer (July and August) can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). However, this is the time for many cultural events, including the Festa della Bruna and the Matera Film Festival.

Winter (November to March) is cooler and can be rainy, but it offers a unique atmosphere, especially during the Christmas season when the Sassi are illuminated with festive lights.

How to Get Around

• Walking: The historic center and Sassi are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction for the uneven stone streets.
• Public Buses: Connect the modern city with the historic center and surrounding areas.
• Taxis: Available but limited. It’s best to book in advance through your hotel.
• Bicycle or E-Bike: A great way to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions.
• Guided Tours: Many companies offer walking or driving tours of the Sassi and surrounding areas.

Where to Stay

• Sassi Hotels: For a unique experience, stay in a renovated cave dwelling in the heart of the Sassi.
• Modern City Center: Offers a range of hotels with easy access to both the historic and modern parts of Matera.
• Boutique B&Bs: Many family-run bed and breakfasts offer personalized service and local insight.
• Countryside Agriturismi: Farm stays in the surrounding area provide a rural Basilicata experience.

How to Stay Safe

Matera is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always wise to take precautions:

• Be careful when walking in the Sassi, especially at night, as the stone streets can be slippery and uneven.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas.
• Respect the local community by not entering private residences in the Sassi without permission.
• Stay hydrated and use sun protection, especially during summer months.
• In case of emergency, dial 112 for general emergencies or 118 for medical emergencies.

Best Places to Book Your Trip

Planning your dream trip is easy with trusted travel platforms. To secure the best deals on flights, accommodations, and tours, check out:

• Booking.com: Offers a wide range of hotels, apartments, and hostels to suit every budget.
• GetYourGuide: Book unforgettable experiences like guided tours, cooking classes, and fast-track passes.
• Expedia: A great platform for bundling flights, hotels, and car rentals for a seamless booking experience.
• Skyscanner: Perfect for finding the best deals on flights.

Conclusion

Matera, with its ancient stone dwellings and rich cultural heritage, offers visitors a journey through time and a deep connection to Southern Italian traditions. As you wander through the winding streets of the Sassi, dine on local delicacies, and witness breathtaking vistas, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where past and present beautifully intertwine. Let Matera’s unique charm and the warmth of its people captivate your heart, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this Southern Italian gem.