What to See in Matera?
If you're among those who aren't sure where is Matera, Italy, this town is set in the Basilicata region of Italy close to the "heel" of Italy's "boot". The Southern Italian city of Matera is a one-of-a-kind cave town with famous Sassi di Matera cave dwellings.
Matera is arguably one of the longest continuously inhabited places settled by humans not only on the European continent but in the world.
The uniqueness of this place is in its limestone caves which have been used by humans as homes for many centuries. The history behind each cave in the complex divided into two parts, Sassi Barisano and Sassi Caveoso, also differs. Some buildings are Paleolithic, others are old historic homes, churches.
The ancient neighborhoods of the City of Caves are very popular among tourists and over 500 thousand people come to check out Matera each year.
Although not all ancient caves boast proper amenities, some of them were partially converted and tastefully refurbished to modern standards with preserving the original cave look, therefore, giving tourists the opportunity to not only explore the old caves but to actually stay overnight in them.
When exploring Matera, Italy, don't miss the following places: Sassi di Matera, the Matera Cathedral, Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, as well as the Santa Lucia alle Malve rock church.
The atmosphere of this ancient old town is non-descript - Matera as if resembles a time-pausing feel.