Matera, Italy: The Defnintive Guide
January 2024
The city of Matera, located in Southern Italy’s Basilicata region, is one of Italy’s – and perhaps all of Europe’s – best kept luxury travel secrets.
Matera’s otherworldly landscape and lack of overwhelming crowds afford visitors the opportunity to experience an authentic Italy that is increasingly difficult to find in the age of over-tourism.
Matera is a place like no other that we’ve ever visited, and it was love at first sight.
The simple, flavorful, Materan cuisine, the luxury cave hotels in ancient “grottes”, and the remarkably consistent committment to superb hospitality make it one of our absolute favorite cities in Italy.
From it’s canyon’s to the cathedral high atop the city, here is our definitive guide to Matera, Italy.
Table of Contents
Is Matera Worth Visting in Italy?
Matera is not merely worth a visit, it is an essential destination for lovers of all things Italy.
Its ancient charm, unspoiled vistas, and cultural depth make it an untarnished treasure trove for those who love Italian history, hospitality, and cuisine.
Matera is cinematic, literally.
But don’t just take our word for it. Take a moment to experience this incredibly visual city in one of our videos from our visit to Puglia and Basilicata.
James Bond fans will no doubt recognize the city as the spectacular backdrop in 007’s “No Time to Die,” Film buffs will know that Matera’s Sassi caves served as the backdrop to “Wonder Woman”, and that the city has served as a substitute for Jerusalem in both “Ben Hur” and “The Passion of the Christ”.
Matera Italy Fact Sheet
Region:
- Matera is located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy.
- This area neighbors Puglia, and is sometimes referred to as Puglia/Basilicata, as cities in these neighboring regions are often visited on the same trip.
Climate:
- June to mid-September is the warmest season in Matera, with daytime temperatures in the 80° – 90° Fahrenheit range. Peak temperatures in July and August average in the 90°+ range.
- Late November to early March is the cool season, with average daytime temperatures in the 40° – 55° range. This is also the rainiest season in Matera.
Ideal Times to Visit:
- Like virtually all of Italy, peak season in Matera is June through August.
- Shoulder season in Matera is from Late March to early June, and from mid-September to mid-November.
- This is an ideal time to enjoy comfortable weather and smaller crowds.
Getting to Matera:
- The nearest airport to Matera is Bari-Palese (Aeoroporto Karol Wojtlya), a major regional airport which is 55 kilometers away.
- Brindisi-Casale airport is also an option, and is 140 kilometers away.
- From the airport to Matera, it is approximately a one hour trip by car
- Rideshares and taxis are readily available, and private transportation can be pre-arranged.
Getting Around:
- Matera is a highly walkable city, with many of its most important destinations located in the heart of the old city.
What is Matera’s History?
Often referred to as the “City of Stones”, Matera is a place where history and modernity effortlessly coexist. It’s a destination that richly rewards “in the know” travelers in search of authenticity and uniqueness.
Matera’s allure stems in large part from its one-of-a-kind Sassi, caves that form a labyrinthine network of ancient dwellings carved into the cliffs that date as far back as the Paleolithic era.
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, is a testament to human resilience and adaptation over the centuries.
As you explore the winding alleys, stone-carved churches, and hidden courtyards, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living history book.
But Matera is not merely a relic of the past; it’s a city that effortlessly merges its storied past with modernity.
What are the Best Luxury Hotels in Matera?
Luxury travelers will find exquisite accommodations that offer a rich mix of contemporary retreats within this ancient setting.
Many of Matera’s hotels have been constructed in and around the city’s plentiful “sassi” or caves. Guests of these hotels will have ample opportunity to sleep in a cave that may well have once been home to ancient humans.
The accommodations today are considerably better.
We believe in and support responsible travel, and so it is important to note that visitors to Matera can rest assured that the city’s rich history and its caves are well protected by the government and by the proud locals.
The caves that have been converted into hotels were not long ago poverty-stricken homes. Until the early part of the twentieth century, Matera was known as “The Shame of Italy” due to its crippling poverty.
The reinvention of these former humble homes into world-class tourist attractions has greatly improved the quality of life and the civic pride of the city and its residents.
Here are our recommendations for Matera’s Top Luxury Hotels, including multiple unique cave hotels in this ancient locale.
For a detailed deep-dive into the unique character and offerings of these hotels, please read our blog on .
What Are the Top Things To Do in Matera?
With a host of attractions to visit, travelers can be confident that a multi-day stay in Matera will be filled with unique activities.
As we mentioned earlier, Matera is a truly cinematic city. In addition to the well known UNESCO-listed Sassi cave districts, Matera also offers off-the-beaten-path attractions like the lesser-visited Rock Churches of Murgia that provide a glimpse into quieter medieval history.
Our video below captures this city from early morning light until after dark, and showcases several of Matera’s top attractions.
Explore the Sassi di Matera
Dating back to over 7000 years to the Neolithic period, the Sassi di Matera boast dwellings carved into limestone cliffs, a testament to Matera’s enduring history.
- Inhabitants utilized these natural caves for shelter, creating a unique urban landscape that highlights the resilience and adaptability of Matera’s people.
- Matera’s Sassi gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993, recognizing its exceptional cultural significance and well-preserved ancient architecture.
- The “Caveoso” and “Barisano” districts reveal a labyrinth of multi-storied structures and rock-hewn churches, reflecting Matera’s architectural evolution over the centuries.
- Today, guided tours provide in-depth insights into the Sassi, uncovering the layers of history embedded in the stone.
Visit the Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera)
Matera Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the title of Santa Maria della Bruna, was constructed in the 13th century, showcasing Apulian Romanesque architecture.
- The cathedral underwent various renovations and enhancements over the centuries, including the addition of the Renaissance-style portico. In 2006 The Cathedral was closed for ten years for an extensive renovation. The renovation restored this architectural gem into magnificent condition.
- Intricate sculptures, including the depiction of biblical scenes, adorn the façade, providing a visual narrative of Matera’s religious history.
- The stunning rose window, a masterpiece of medieval art, which is said to represent the Wheel of Fortune, adds an ethereal touch to the cathedral’s interior, filling the space with natural light.
- Matera Cathedral remains an active place of worship, serving as a spiritual anchor for the local community.
Wander Through the Civita:
Civita, the highest point in Matera, provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, offering a strategic vantage point for defense in ancient times.
- The Church of San Pietro Caveoso, dating back to the 12th century, exemplifies the simplicity of Romanesque architecture, contrasting with the intricate details found in other churches.
- Civita’s elevated position played a crucial role in Matera’s defensive strategies throughout its history, as evidenced by the remnants of ancient fortifications.
- Exploring Civita offers a contemplative experience, inviting reflection on Matera’s resilience and adaptability across centuries.
Discover the Palombaro Lungo
The Palombaro Lungo, constructed in the 16th century, served as a water storage cistern, showcasing Matera’s innovative approach to managing water resources.
- Designed to collect rainwater and supply it to the city during times of drought, the cistern played a vital role in Matera’s survival.
- Guided tours provide insights into the intricate construction of the Palombaro Lungo, highlighting the engineering ingenuity of Matera’s inhabitants.
- Matera’s historical reliance on cisterns reflects the city’s commitment to sustainable water management, a practice rooted in centuries of environmental awareness.
- The Cathedral of Water, as the Palombaro Lungo is often called, stands as a testament to Matera’s historical resilience and resourcefulness.
Experience the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario is a meticulously recreated cave dwelling, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Matera’s residents during the 18th century.
- The exhibit includes authentic tools, furniture, and household items, providing a tangible connection to Matera’s cultural heritage.
- The cave dwelling reflects the simplicity of Matera’s architecture, where residents ingeniously carved homes into the soft limestone cliffs.
- Visitors can witness the resourcefulness of Matera’s inhabitants, who transformed natural caves into functional and comfortable living spaces.
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario serves as a living history museum, preserving and sharing the traditions of Matera’s past.
Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista
The rock-hewn Church of San Giovanni Battista dates back to the 13th century, featuring remarkable frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible.
- The church’s architectural simplicity allows visitors to focus on the exquisite details of the frescoes, showcasing Matera’s artistic heritage.
- San Giovanni Battista exemplifies Matera’s unique combination of cave dwellings and religious structures, providing a spiritual and historical experience.
- Guided tours offer insights into the historical and religious context of the church, unraveling its significance within Matera’s cultural landscape.
Sample Matera’s Culinary Delights
Matera’s culinary heritage is rooted in regional specialties, including orecchiette pasta, a signature dish made from durum wheat and water.
- The renowned Matera bread, characterized by its crunchy crust and soft interior, reflects centuries-old baking traditions passed down through generations.
- Exploring local eateries allows visitors to savor regional cheeses, such as Pecorino and Caciocavallo, each with distinct flavors influenced by Matera’s agricultural landscape.
- Outdoor markets in Matera showcase the vibrant food culture, offering an array of fresh produce, handmade pastas, and local delicacies.
In Springtime, Attend the Infiorata Festival
The Infiorata Festival, celebrated annually in late spring, transforms Matera’s streets into vibrant canvases adorned with intricate flower petal carpets.
- Artists meticulously create ephemeral masterpieces, showcasing themes inspired by religious motifs, cultural symbols, and natural elements.
- The festival’s origins date back to the 1930s, and it has since become a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from around the world to this seasonal spring festival.
- Participating in the Infiorata Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the intersection of art, culture, and community celebration in Matera. Capturing the beauty of the temporary flower carpets provides a visual memory of Matera’s artistic vibrancy.
Hike the Murgia Materana Park
Murgia Materana Park offers a network of hiking trails and picturesque flora, providing stunning views of the Sassi and the surrounding landscapes.
- The park’s diverse flora includes Mediterranean shrubs, wildflowers, and aromatic herbs, creating a picturesque natural setting.
- Visitors can explore archaeological sites within the park, including prehistoric caves and ancient settlements, revealing Matera’s deep historical roots.
- Murgia Materana Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with various bird species inhabiting the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Explore the Rock Churches of Murgia
The ancient rock-hewn churches scattered throughout Murgia date back to medieval times, with each church boasting unique frescoes and architectural features.
- Madonna delle Tre Porte, one of the rock churches, features frescoes that depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
- These churches played a crucial role in Matera’s religious and artistic heritage, serving as places of worship and artistic expression.
- Exploring the Rock Churches of Murgia provides a glimpse into Matera’s medieval period, where religious devotion and artistic craftsmanship converged.
Visit Chiesa del Purgatorio
Photo by: Di Cosal – Opera propria, CC BY-SA 4.0
- The exterior of the church is adorned with skulls, crossbones, and skeletons, as the church is dedicated to the souls in purgatory, and its façade features elaborate Baroque details, reflecting the artistic richness of the era.
- Visitors can explore the interior, adorned with unique religious artworks that reflect the reality of death as a part of life, gaining insights into the historical and artistic significance of the church.
For up-to-date information on seasonal events happening in Matera be sure to visit the Official Matera Tourism Site.
The Official Tourism Site for the Basilicata Region is also a valuable resource.
What are the Top Restaurants in Matera?
From the casual to the formal, dining in Matera is Italy at its finest.
The cuisine in Matera is distinct from other regions in Italy, with a greater emphasis on seafood and specific types of pasta. Materan cuisine is unique in both Italy and for Southern Italy, and is a huge part of the region’s appeal.
Below is our list of ten favorite restaurants in Matera.
What are the Best Cities Near Matera?
When planning a visit to Matera, these are the cities in Southern Italy that are ideal to incorporate into a tour through the Puglia and Basilicata regions.
● Lecce
● Alberobello
● Polignano a Mare
● Ostuni (“The White City”)
● Otranto
● Gallipoli
● Monopoli.
