When you dream of Italy, you might picture the bustling streets of Rome or the romantic gondolas of Venice. But let me take you somewhere different—somewhere ancient, rugged, and utterly captivating. Welcome to La Matera, my affectionate name for Matera, the “City of Stone” nestled in southern Italy’s Basilicata region. This isn’t just a spot to visit; it’s a journey into a living relic, a place where history whispers from every cave and cobblestone. If you’re after a travel experience that’s raw, unique, and unforgettable, La Matera is calling your name.
A Glimpse Into the Past
La Matera earns its nickname from the Sassi—centuries-old cave homes carved into the limestone cliffs of a dramatic ravine. Wandering through these stone warrens feels like stepping onto a film set (and it has been one—just watch The Passion of the Christ). People have lived here since prehistoric times, and as recently as the 1950s, families shared these caves with their animals. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, La Matera’s Sassi have evolved into a surreal blend of history and hospitality. Check into a cave hotel like Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita—think flickering candles, stone walls, and a vibe that’s equal parts ancient and luxurious.
Exploring La Matera
Kick off your adventure in the Sassi di Matera, split into Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. The maze of pathways and staircases is a visual feast, with La Matera’s golden stone glowing under the sun. Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see how life once hummed in these caves—simple, cramped, and strangely cozy.
For a jaw-dropping view, cross the ravine to the Parco della Murgia Materana. From there, La Matera looks like a sculpted wonder clinging to the hillside, especially at dusk. Don’t miss the rock churches, like Chiesa di Santa Maria de Idris, where weathered frescoes hint at centuries of faith etched into the stone.
Savoring the Flavors
La Matera’s food is humble yet unforgettable, born from the land and its people. Dig into crapiata, a rustic legume soup, or lucanica, a zesty sausage that sings with a glass of bold Aglianico wine. Osteria al Casale serves up hearty dishes in a stone-walled setting, while Oi Marì offers killer wood-fired pizzas in a lively, local atmosphere. And the bread? La Matera’s crusty, golden loaves are a legend in their own right.
Why La Matera Stands Out
What makes La Matera so cool? It’s a phoenix of a place. Once called Italy’s shame for its poverty, it’s risen to become a symbol of resilience and reinvention. You’ll find modern comforts—like cave cafés with Wi-Fi—blending seamlessly with a past that stretches back millennia. It’s still quiet enough to feel like your own discovery, free from the tourist crush of Italy’s big hitters.
Getting to La Matera
La Matera takes a little effort to reach, which only adds to its allure. Fly into Bari (an hour away) or Naples (three hours), then drive or bus through Basilicata’s wild, olive-dotted hills. The journey sets the stage for the magic you’ll find when you arrive.
Why You’ll Remember It
La Matera isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the weight of history in every step, the warmth of a meal shared in a cave, the quiet thrill of uncovering something truly special. Bring your curiosity and a good pair of shoes. La Matera’s story is one you’ll want to live for yourself.
