Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Matera with Family

Whispers of the Past

Today in Matera felt like stepping directly into a history book. The city's ancient stones and cave dwellings whispered stories of civilizations long past, and I was eager to listen. With Astrid and Lasse by my side, I set out to explore the remarkable sights that Matera had to offer, each location more captivating than the last. From the serene Crypt of Original Sin to the panoramic views from Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, it was a day of discovery and wonder.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Il Fiore del Latte. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. I savored a breakfast sandwich filled with local cheeses and cured meats, while Astrid enjoyed a sweet pastry and Lasse devoured a stack of pancakes. Fortified and ready, we headed towards our first destination: the Crypt of Original Sin.


Explore the Crypt of Original Sin in Matera, Italy - a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking frescoes and deep cultural significance.
The drive to the Crypt of Original Sin was an experience in itself. As we ventured further from the city center, the landscape transformed into a rugged, almost lunar terrain. The rolling hills and deep ravines spoke of the ancient forces that shaped this land. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation as we approached the site, eager to uncover the secrets hidden within.

The Crypt of Original Sin, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art, is a rock church dating back to the 8th century. Discovered in 1963, it houses a remarkable cycle of frescoes painted by an anonymous artist known as the Flower Painter. The paintings depict scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the creation of Adam and Eve and the story of the Original Sin. As we descended into the crypt, the cool, damp air enveloped us, and the faint scent of earth and stone filled our nostrils.

The frescoes were breathtaking. Despite their age, the colors remained vibrant, and the intricate details were remarkably well-preserved. The artist's use of light and shadow created a sense of depth and movement, bringing the biblical stories to life. I found myself particularly drawn to the depiction of the creation of Adam, where the artist captured the moment of divine inspiration with remarkable sensitivity.

Lasse, initially skeptical about visiting an ancient church, was soon captivated by the artistry and history of the crypt. He peppered our guide with questions about the techniques used to create the frescoes and the stories behind the paintings. Astrid, ever the historian, was fascinated by the blend of Late-Romanesque style and Oriental influences in the artwork.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Leaving the Crypt of Original Sin, we drove back towards Matera, our minds still filled with the images of the ancient frescoes. Our next stop was the Palazzo Lanfranchi, a 17th-century palace that now houses the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata. The palace itself is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with its grand façade and elegant courtyard.


Discover the artistic heritage of Matera at Palazzo Lanfranchi, an art museum that offers stunning views and a rich cultural experience.
Inside, the museum showcased a diverse collection of artworks from the region, spanning from the medieval period to the present day. The collection included religious paintings, sculptures, and contemporary installations. I was particularly impressed by the works of Carlo Levi, an Italian painter and writer who spent time in exile in Basilicata during the Fascist era. His paintings captured the stark beauty and the harsh realities of life in the region.

Astrid was delighted by the Palazzo Lanfranchi, and she was in her element as she explored the various exhibits, reading every description and annotation with keen interest. Lasse seemed less enthusiastic at first but perked up when we reached the contemporary art section, where he found some pieces that resonated with his own artistic sensibilities.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Kapunto Matera, a local restaurant known for its fresh pasta and regional specialties. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the staff greeted us with warm smiles. We ordered a selection of dishes, including handmade ravioli, orecchiette with cime di rapa, and a hearty ragu. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauces were bursting with flavor. It was a truly authentic taste of Matera.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Kapunto Matera, where traditional recipes meet local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to the Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. As we approached the piazza, the view opened up before us, revealing the breathtaking panorama of the Sassi di Matera. The ancient cave dwellings, stacked one upon another, formed a mesmerizing tapestry of stone and light. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the city, creating a magical atmosphere.


Experience breathtaking views of Matera's iconic Sassi from Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, a serene observation deck perfect for all travelers.
The Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli offered a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale and expanse of Matera's cave houses. It was easy to see why this city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The layered rock formations, vibrant colors of the buildings, and the winding streets of Matera told a story that dates back thousands of years. It felt like standing on the edge of time, gazing into the heart of history.

We spent a long time at the Belvedere, simply soaking in the view and capturing photos of the stunning scenery. Lasse, who has a keen eye for photography, found endless inspiration in the textures and colors of the Sassi. Astrid and I sat on a nearby bench, lost in contemplation as we watched the sun slowly dip below the horizon. It was a moment of shared serenity and appreciation for the beauty of this ancient city.

As the evening approached, we decided to find a spot for a pre-dinner drink. We stumbled upon JAR - Beer, Wine & Bites, a charming little bar with a great selection of local wines and craft beers. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we quickly struck up a conversation with the friendly owner. We sampled a few different wines, each one more delicious than the last, and enjoyed some tasty snacks.


Experience the ultimate blend of craft beer, fine wines, and delicious bites at JAR in the heart of Matera.
For dinner, we had a reservation at Dimora Ulmo ristorante. The restaurant is located in a beautifully restored palazzo and boasts a stunning summer terrace overlooking the Sassi. The setting was romantic and elegant, perfect for a special evening. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a creative blend of modern cuisine and traditional local dishes. Each course was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. The service was impeccable, and the sommelier expertly paired each dish with a regional wine.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dimora Ulmo in Matera - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.
The meal at Dimora Ulmo was a culinary highlight of our trip. The chef's innovative use of local ingredients and his attention to detail were truly impressive. From the delicate seafood appetizers to the rich, flavorful meat dishes, every course was a delight. We savored each bite, appreciating the artistry and passion that went into creating such a memorable dining experience.

After dinner, we strolled through the quiet streets of Matera, hand in hand, reflecting on the day's adventures. The city was bathed in a soft, golden light, and the air was filled with the gentle sounds of the night. It felt like we had stepped into a dream, a timeless world where history and beauty intertwined.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, and Casa Noha. I am excited to see what new wonders await us as we continue our journey through this captivating region. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Matera had cast its spell on us, and I knew that we would carry its magic in our hearts long after we had left.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to charge my camera and double-check our itinerary for tomorrow. I also realized I still hadn't bought a European adapter, and Astrid mentioned she missed her sunglasses today. I'll need to remember to pick those up tomorrow.

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” What a day!