This ancient southern Italian city is built into a ravine of cave dwellings inhabited continuously for thousands of years, among the oldest settlements in the world.
Why Visit Matera
The Sassi di Matera, cave dwellings carved directly into the limestone ravine, have been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years, making Matera one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on earth. Once considered a national disgrace due to poverty in the mid 20th century, the Sassi have since been restored and transformed into hotels, restaurants, and homes, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. The city’s dramatic, ancient appearance has made it a popular filming location, standing in for Jerusalem in several biblical films.
Top Experiences
- Sassi di Matera: Ancient cave dwellings carved into the ravine, continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years.
- Cave Church Tours: Explore rock cut churches decorated with Byzantine frescoes throughout the ravine.
- Belvedere Viewpoints: Panoramic overlooks across the ravine offering classic photographs of the Sassi.
- Cave Hotel Stays: Sleep in a restored cave dwelling now converted into a boutique hotel room.
Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Matera.
Panoramic Private Tour in Ape Calessino in the Sassi of Matera
Practical Tips
- Matera’s stone streets are steep and uneven, wear sturdy walking shoes.
- Sunset and early morning offer the most dramatic light for photographing the Sassi from the belvedere viewpoints.
- Many cave churches have limited opening hours, check ahead if specific sites are a priority.
FAQ
What are the Sassi di Matera?
They are ancient cave dwellings carved into a limestone ravine, inhabited continuously for over 9,000 years and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why was Matera once considered shameful?
In the mid 20th century, extreme poverty and difficult living conditions in the Sassi led the Italian government to forcibly relocate residents, but the area has since been restored and revitalized.
Has Matera been used in films?
Yes, its ancient appearance has made it a popular filming location, appearing in several biblical epics and more recent productions including a James Bond film.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!