Why is Matera special?


Why is Matera special? Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the city of stones and rock churches. Matera is one of the oldest, still inhabited cities in the world: a magical place that preserves evidence of human settlements since the Palaeolithic period in its natural caves carved into the rock.


What is the magical and oldest city in Italy?

Set in Basilicata near the border with Puglia, Matera is set amidst billowing fields of wheat, olive groves, and grape vines, along the ancient Roman road, the Appian Way. With about 60,000 residents, it is an active city with many long-standing traditions and festivals, and a lot happening throughout the year.


Is Matera the oldest city in Europe?

Located in the Basilicata region of Italy, Matera is the oldest city in Italy and in Europe. Ancient neighborhoods, and stunning landscapes this tiny town is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.


Is 1 day enough in Matera?

Is One Day Enough for Matera? If you only have one day in Matera, you can easily explore the city's historic Sassi district, take an Ape Calessino tour, dine at a local restaurant, and even stay in a cave hotel. However, you'll need to prioritize which attractions you want to see and plan your time carefully.


Can you swim in Matera?

You should know that there are many beautiful beaches around Matera. Here are some of them: Lido di Metaponto, Nova Siri Marina, Marina di Pisticci and the Bosco Pantano beach. I recommend you drop in or spend a day or more there, as they are the ideal place for a swim in the midst of nature!


Where did Daniel Craig stay in Matera?

The celebrities choose Palazzo Gattini. Palazzo Gattini contributed to the movie carrying out a very sensitive assignment: guarantee privacy and serenity to the movie director, Cary Joji Fukunaga, and to the main actors, Daniel Craig and Léa Seydoux. Indeed, all of them stayed at our luxury hotel.


Is Matera difficult to walk?

But be careful, during your Matera walking tour, you will involve a lot of walking, and as the city is hilly, hot—especially in the summer—and completely out in the open, you'll want to make sure you pack comfortable shoes and plenty of water.


Is Matera the oldest city in the world?

Matera is an ancient city that seems to have existed forever. It is the third oldest city in the world, after Aleppo and Jericho, with over 10,000 years of history. The rock caves, the rocky Murgia of Matera and some primitive dwellings of the Sassi tell of ancient settlements.


What is the oldest city in France?

Founded c. 600 BC by Greek settlers from Phocaea, Marseille is the oldest city in France, as well as one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited settlements.