Located in the region of Basilicata in southern Italy, the historic city of Matera is truly a spectacular sight. Matera is one of the oldest settlements in history; Neolithic caves that date back 7000 years dot the mountainside and the old city reaches to the sky in a tangle of grey stone houses stacked on top of each other.

Walking the city is the best way to experience the magic of Matera. Wander through the maze of narrow streets, climb the uneven stone staircases, discover tiny squares and secret courtyards decked out with flower pots and greenery; the possibilities are endless. If your journey takes you to the edge of town, take the opportunity to explore the uninhabited caves carved into the mountainside and see how people lived in ages past.

Walking tours are also available and give you a more in-depth history of the fascinating town.

A feature of Matera that you can’t miss is the cave churches (known as chiese rupestre); gorgeous structures carved directly into the rock containing ancient frescoes and religious artworks. The best cave churches to visit include Santa Maria de Idris, which sits high on top of a rock, and San Pietro Barisano, the largest rupestrian church, which dates back to the 12th century.

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