When mentioning the beautiful country of Italy, one immediately thinks of the canals and gondolas in Venice, the Roman Colosseum in Rome, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, few know that in the southern part of this country lies an incredibly beautiful ancient city that preserves the marks of human history for tens of thousands of years. This city is called Matera, known for its houses built into caves (also known as Sassi).
Matera is considered the third oldest city in the world, following Aleppo and Jericho. There are many theories surrounding the name of this city. Many people say it originates from a word “mata,” meaning: Our rock.
Many documents about this ancient city are currently preserved in museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum of Domenico Ridola. Many believe that the city of Matera has Greek origins due to its symbols of ancient Greece.
Ancient city with a 9,000-year history
About 9,000 years ago, a group of Paleolithic settlers built cave houses in Matera. Humans have continuously lived in the caves of Matera since they were first constructed.
In the first half of the 20th century, many people in Italy considered Matera a “shame.” This was because most residents of Matera lived in poverty. Local shepherds often kept sheep, goats, and chickens together in their caves.
The presence of pets living with humans led to disease and pollution. The living conditions were so dire that in 1950, authorities had to relocate the entire population of Matera to new housing.
After that, the Sassi were abandoned until the 1980s. Those who loved the ancient beauty and the original residents of Matera decided to come together to renovate the unique stone houses of the ancient city.
Modern hotels, restaurants, and cafes began to spring up in the Sassi – areas that just a few decades earlier were considered unfit for human habitation.
Tourists gradually learn about and seek out Matera…
Strangely Beautiful Ancient City
During the process of exploring and renovating the Sassi, many hidden “treasures” were discovered, including several rock-hewn churches with impressive frescoes.
For example, the Crypt of Original Sin features Byzantine frescoes. This is considered one of the most impressive rock art frescoes ever created. If you have the chance to visit Matera, be sure to ask a local guide to take you to some of the most prominent rock-hewn churches in the area.
Matera seen from above.
The cave houses in Matera exhibit a variety of architectural styles that have developed over many centuries, including vaulted ceilings and winding stone staircases. Exploring the interiors of the Sassi is like stepping through a portal that allows you to witness remarkable moments from 9,000 years ago.
For those who enjoy adventure, there is a part of Matera called Sasso Caveoso, which contains a large number of uninhabited caves.
Sasso Caveoso is strange and slightly dangerous. However, it is well worth the trip if you are adventurous and love exploration. Be cautious in abandoned areas. When exploring Sasso Caveoso, bring a flashlight and do not venture too far from inhabited areas.
Once stigmatized as a poor, backward place, Matera has now “undergone a transformation”, becoming an attractive tourist destination that any traveler would want to visit at least once.
