“Show and Tell”: Matera, Basilicata

Italy “Show and Tell” is a weekly series published on Sundays where invited guests share 6 of their favorite photos from their trip to Italy or life in Italy, along with a short description.

After reading a post on Matera this week, it reminded me of my visit to this fascinating town last year. Known as the “shame of Italy” in the 1940s due to the appalling living conditions in the cave dwellings, Matera, today, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This town in the region of Basilicata is eerily beautiful, and with a setting that looks like you’ve stepped back in time, it was no surprise that the movie “The Passion of the Christ” was filmed here.

6 Favorite Photos from Matera, Basilicata

1. The cave dwellings in Matera, called Sassi, are said to date back to Paleolithic times. The town is made of two districts: Sasso Caveoso, the older part where many cave dwellings are still abandoned, and Sasso Barisano, a bustling area with cave dwellings transformed into shops, restaurants and hotels.

View of the town of Matera

2. Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, perched on the edge of the cliff, in Sasso Caveoso. To the left of the church, there many cave dwellings that are uninhabitable as they still haven’t met regulations and standards.

Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso

3. If you think cave dwellings aren’t luxurious, think again. Sextantio offers top-notch amenities that are astounding and in a setting that makes for an unforgettable experience. We had the opportunity to visit this hotel but stayed in a simple yet lovely bed and breakfast.

A room in Sextantio in Matera

4. The best way to explore Matera is on foot. Walking through the charming streets of Sasso Barisano means stairs. Fortunately, not as steep as the ones in Positano.

Street in Matera

5. The main piazza, Piazza V. Veneto, in Sasso Barisano has lovely fountain and a lively atmosphere.

Main piazza in Matera

6. We went to Parco della Murgia Materana and met some shepherds who were in the process of making cheese. Although the conditions wouldn’t have met any health standards, it was a truly unique and authentic experience.

Shepherds making cheese in Matera

Have you been to Matera? Share your experience with us in the comments below.