What is special about Matera Italy?

Matera has gained international fame for its ancient town, the “Sassi di Matera”. The Sassi originated in a prehistoric troglodyte settlement, and these dwellings are thought to be among the first ever human settlements in what is now Italy.

Is Matera Italy worth visiting?

Is Matera Italy Worth Visiting? Yes, Matera is absolutely worth visiting! Matera is truly special—it has a spectacular setting, fascinating history, and excellent cuisine. It’s as beautiful as many cities in Italy but far less crowded.

Is Matera Italy safe?

Matera is a fairly safe place to visit. Having said this, there are certain precautions that should be taken in order to ensure a smooth trip through the Basilicata region of Italy . Like always, common sense is the most important tool to be used in staying safe.

Is Matera a Puglia or Basilicata?

Although Matera is situated in the region of Basilicata, just across the Puglian border, it is an easy, and greatly rewarding day trip from many of our villas, especially those in the Valle d’Itria or on the northern Ionian coast.

Why is Matera the shame of Italy?

Matera Was Once Considered the ‘Shame of Italy. ‘ Now It’s a Hub for Cave-Hopping Jet-Setters. It’s hard to believe that a little more than 50 years ago, Matera was the “shame of Italy,” its cave-dwelling citizens living in abject poverty without electricity or running water .

What does Matera mean in Italian?

A spouse or romantic partner.

Why was Matera called the shame of Italy?

What food is Matera famous for?

The traditional dishes of Matera

  • The Cialledda.
  • The Pignata.
  • Mashed broad beans with wild herbs (chicory)
  • The Crapiata.

Does anyone live in Matera Italy?

It’s a form of gentrification, but it doesn’t quite fit the model, since the Sassi were already empty, and nobody is being displaced.” Today, around 3,000 people live in the Sassi and about half of the dwellings are occupied, with Matera firmly on southern Italy’s tourist circuit.

Is Matera older than Rome?

We think of Rome, at 3,000 years old, as ancient, but it looks newly incorporated compared with Matera, which is 5,000 years older. This town of 60,000, almost in the heel of Italy’s boot, wears its age well in movies.

When should I go to Matera Italy?

All in all, the best months to travel to Matera in Italy are May through October, when the weather is pleasant and hot, with little or no rainfall. In July, the average temperature in Matera is 31°C, while in January’s average temperature is 10°C.