ITALY // The oldest troglodyte town in the world after Aleppo and Jericho, Matera was once the shame of Italy. Set on a limestone plateau, it tumbles into a deep river ravine pockmarked with sassi (cave dwellings) once inhabited by poverty-stricken peasants, but is now a Unesco Heritage site. History is so deep here it weaves a spell as you wander a labyrinth of hand-cut stairs and alleys visiting cave museums and cafes, sleeping in candlelit cave hotels, and gazing at churches where frescoed poppies swirl around the skirts of a doe-eyed Madonna.

Why is Matera so famous?

A place full of landscapes, unique architectural works, landscapes of unparalleled charm, Matera has fascinated many artists, including Carlo Levi and Giovanni Pasquali, and continues to enchant with its Sassi, a World Heritage Site.

Is Matera Italy the oldest city in the world?

Matra is the third oldest city in the world after Aleppo and Jericho. The name of this city has so many theories about it that some say it is derived from the word "mata" which means our rock.

Is Matera Italy worth visiting?

 Yes, Matera is absolutely worth a visit! Matera is truly special - it has a spectacular setting, fascinating history and great food. This city is as beautiful as many Italian cities, but it is more crowded.

Who lived in Matera?

Before merging with the modern state of Italy, the city of Matera experienced the rule of Romans, Lombards, Arabs, Byzantines, Swabians, Angevins, Aragonese and Bourbons.