The Sassi City of Matera: a fascinating troglodyte treasure listed by UNESCO
The Sassi city of Matera: a UNESCO-listed troglodyte treasure
In the heart of Basilicata, the Sassi of Matera form one of the most fascinating urban landscapes in Italy. These troglodyte districts carved into the limestone rock create a unique labyrinth of narrow alleys, caves and rock-hewn churches. Bearing witness to thousands of years of history, the Sassi of Matera were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993 for their outstanding universal value.
A thousand-year-old history in the heart of Basilicata
The Sassi of Matera – literally “stones” – have been inhabited since prehistoric times. The first communities carved shelters into the tuff rock, taking advantage of the Gravina di Matera, a natural canyon.
Over the centuries, these caves became homes, monasteries, churches, and workshops. Until the mid-20th century, the Sassi were densely populated, but living conditions remained precarious.
In the 1950s, a large resettlement plan forced residents to leave the caves. It was only from the 1980s onwards that Matera experienced a spectacular revival: today, the Sassi are a symbol of restoration and cultural pride, with their cave hotels, museums and traditional restaurants.
A unique troglodyte architecture in Europe
The Sassi are divided into two districts:
Sasso Caveoso, the oldest district, with its almost intact cave dwellings.
Sasso Barisano, more open, where restored houses have been transformed into accommodation facilities.
These structures, carved directly into the rock, offer an unrivaled architectural panorama. Among the steep alleyways, you can discover numerous rock-hewn churches adorned with medieval frescoes, including Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Barisano, true treasures of sacred art in Basilicata.
Matera, European Capital of Culture 2019
The recognition of Matera’s Sassi by UNESCO marked a decisive turning point for the city. In 2019, Matera was named European Capital of Culture, confirming its status as a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.
The Sassi have also inspired many filmmakers: Pier Paolo Pasolini, Mel Gibson, and even 007 – No Time To Die immortalized the city in their films, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Practical information for visiting Matera
Location: Matera, Basilicata region, southern Italy.
Opening hours: free access to the Sassi 24/7; museums and rock-hewn churches require a ticket.
Access: 60 km from Bari (Puglia), reachable by car, bus, or regional train.
Not to be missed
The National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata.
The reconstructed cave houses, showcasing the way of life of the past.
The Murgia Timone viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of the cave city.
Between Lucanian culture and gastronomy
Discovering the Sassi of Matera also means tasting the cuisine of Basilicata, simple and full of flavor.
The famous Pane di Matera IGP, with its rustic aroma, accompanies traditional dishes such as:
peperoni cruschi, dried and fried peppers;
Lucanica, a spicy sausage inherited from Ancient Rome;
or the handmade pasta cavatelli, served with tomato sauce and a drizzle of local olive oil.
A typical meal ideally ends with a glass of Aglianico del Vulture DOC, an intense red wine from the volcanic soils of Mount Vulture.
Why visit the Sassi city of Matera?
To explore a unique troglodyte site in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To admire the rock-hewn churches and their medieval frescoes.
To enjoy an immersive experience blending history, spirituality, and art.Pour vivre une expérience immersive entre histoire, spiritualité et art.
To enjoy traditional Lucanian cuisine, a reflection of Basilicata’s terroir.
