MATERA - One of the oldest cities in the world -

Matera, is one of the few cities in the world that has been continuously
inhabited since prehistoric times. Since 1993, the extensive Sassi district, the
town’s ancient cave-dwellings, and the Park of the Rock Churches have been
on the World Heritage List, where they have been described as “one of the
most outstanding organised urban settlements ever created in the world, a
real masterpiece of human creative genius and capacity to adapt”. Matera,
which in 2019 has been designated European Capital of Culture, will boast
numerous attractions and experiences along with the eventful pro gramme
that enlivens the city throughout the year: from archaeology museums, art
and history to cultural and environmental routes, from food and wine tours
to crafts and design. Today, the city of the Sassi is the ideal location to rediscover
the most authentic aspects of knowledge and fully enjoy a unique human
and cultural panorama, where everyone can find something of themselves and
feel immediately warmly welcomed. One of the most amazing experiences
is wandering around the Sassi districts, where cave-houses are built on top
of one other, and narrow streets lead to alleys, courtyards, stairways and
squares. Or you can discover the astonishing Park of the Rock Churches, across
the Gravina river, boasting over 150 places of worship carved out of the rock.
You will feel as if you were part of a “stone fresco” guarded by deep silence.
Because Matera is one of those cities that “the spirit never leaves” (Tahar Ben
Jelloun).