What to do and see in Matera

Starting with the provincial capital, Matera, one cannot fail to mention the city’s symbol, the famous “Sassi,” which have made it famous throughout the world. They are the defining feature of these ancient dwellings carved into the rock; only the facades are made of masonry, and the dwellings are connected to one another by tunnels, narrow paths, and stairways. Located in a rocky and rugged area of the city, they overlook the cliffs and deep gorges carved out by the Gravina stream. The Sassi are located in the old town and are divided into two districts: the Sasso Barisano and the Sasso Caveoso. Near the city of Matera lies the Archaeological Park of the Rock-Cut Churches of Matera, which houses a wealth of historical evidence of prehistoric villages and over 160 of the aforementioned rock-cut churches. Meanwhile, nature lovers can enjoy a vacation immersed in natural beauty, such as the Bosco Pantano Nature Reserve or the Gallipoli Cognato – Piccole Dolomiti Lucane Nature Park, where they can spot animals and birds—including rare species—living in complete freedom. In the northernmost part of the province, you can explore the Pollino National Park. In the southern part of the province lies the coastline facing the Ionian Sea, which offers many unspoiled areas with beautiful beaches; among these, we highlight the main coastal resort towns: Metaponto, Pisticci, and Policoro.