Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Matera with Family

Echoes of the Past, Glimpses of Eternity

Today in Matera was a symphony of contrasts, a journey that took us from the hushed depths of ancient caves to the breathtaking heights of panoramic viewpoints. It was a day of discovery, where every corner turned revealed another layer of this remarkable city's rich history and enduring spirit. Astrid and Lasse were as eager as I was to delve into the heart of Matera, each finding their own unique connection to this ancient place.

Our day began, as it has for the past few mornings, with a delightful breakfast at Basquiat. The aroma of fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. With renewed energy, we set off to explore the first attraction on our list: Casa Cava.


Explore the vibrant arts and culture at Casa Cava, a unique cultural center in Matera, Italy, showcasing local talent and historical significance.

Casa Cava: A Symphony in Stone

Casa Cava is a place that resonates with the echoes of Matera’s past. This unique space, entirely excavated in the limestone rock of the Sassi, was once a tuff quarry, used to extract the very stone that built this city. Later, it was abandoned and even used as a landfill before being rediscovered and transformed into a cultural center. As a restorer of antique furniture, I'm always fascinated by the way spaces can be repurposed and given new life, all while retaining the essence of their history. Casa Cava is a perfect example of this.

The interior is a marvel of engineering and design. The rough-hewn walls of the cave contrast beautifully with the modern lighting and sound systems. The main auditorium, which can seat up to 140 people, is an awe-inspiring space. I could only imagine what it must be like to attend a concert or theatrical performance in such a unique setting. The acoustics, I learned, are exceptional, making it a sought-after venue for artists from around the world.

As we wandered through the various chambers, I couldn't help but reflect on the generations of artisans and laborers who had toiled here, shaping the stone with their hands. Their legacy lives on in every nook and cranny of Casa Cava. Lasse, who is developing an interest in photography, was captivated by the play of light and shadow within the cave. He spent a good hour experimenting with different angles, trying to capture the essence of this subterranean world.

                                                                                                               

“History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.”

Astrid, ever the historian, was engrossed in reading about the history of Casa Cava and its significance to the local community. She remarked on how the transformation of the space reflected Matera's own journey from a city once considered a national disgrace to a thriving cultural hub.

Leaving Casa Cava, we walked along Via Madonna delle Virtù.


Discover the magic of Via Madonna delle Virtù in Matera, where stunning views and rich history await every traveler.

This ancient street snakes its way along the edge of the Sasso Barisano, offering stunning views of the Gravina gorge and the Murgia plateau beyond. The street itself is a testament to Matera's resilience, with its stone houses and cave dwellings clinging to the hillside. It's a place where time seems to stand still, where the past and present merge seamlessly.

Via Madonna delle Virtù: A Walk Through Time

Via Madonna delle Virtù is more than just a street; it's a living museum. As we strolled along its cobblestone path, I felt as though we were walking in the footsteps of generations past. The views were simply breathtaking. To one side, the Sassi, a labyrinth of cave dwellings stacked one upon another, and to the other, the deep ravine carved by the Gravina River. The landscape was stark and beautiful, a testament to the power of nature and the ingenuity of humankind.

Along the way, we passed the Complex of Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci, a rock complex that exemplifies the architecture in negative. The structure is made up of two churches, the Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci, a monastery, a cave house and an old cellar. All areas are connected by narrow passages and steep staircases, which intertwine in an articulated path, up to an overlooking point from which you can admire the Gravina stream and the Murgia.

I was particularly struck by the way the buildings seemed to grow out of the rock, as if they were organic extensions of the landscape. The textures and colors of the stone were mesmerizing, ranging from warm ochre to cool gray. It was a feast for the senses, a reminder of the beauty that can be found in simplicity and authenticity.

We paused frequently to take in the views, snapping photos and simply soaking up the atmosphere. Lasse, in particular, was in his element. He was fascinated by the way the light played on the stone, creating a constantly shifting mosaic of shadows and highlights. He experimented with different compositions, trying to capture the essence of this unique place.

Astrid, meanwhile, was busy reading about the history of the street and its significance to the local community. She shared stories of the families who had lived here for centuries, eking out a living from the harsh landscape. Their resilience and determination were truly inspiring.

Our walk along Via Madonna delle Virtù culminated in a breathtaking vista of the Murgia plateau. From this vantage point, the landscape stretched out before us in all its glory, a vast expanse of rolling hills and rocky outcrops. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a reminder of the power and majesty of nature.

Belvedere Murgia Timone: A Panoramic Embrace

After a light lunch at Il Rusticone, we drove to the Belvedere Murgia Timone.


Discover the awe-inspiring Belvedere Murgia Timone, where breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera await every traveler.

A panoramic viewpoint located on the opposite side of the Gravina gorge. The drive itself was an adventure, as we navigated the winding roads that led up to the plateau. As we approached the viewpoint, the landscape opened up before us, revealing a vista of unparalleled beauty.

From here, we could see the entire city of Matera spread out before us, a sea of stone buildings nestled in the heart of the Murgia plateau. The Sassi, in particular, were a sight to behold, a labyrinth of cave dwellings that seemed to defy gravity. The setting sun cast a warm glow over the city, highlighting its unique textures and colors.

The Belvedere Murgia Timone offered a different perspective on Matera, a chance to see the city in its entirety. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the scale of human history and the power of nature. We spent a long time simply gazing at the view, lost in contemplation.

Lasse, of course, was busy taking photos. He experimented with different lenses and filters, trying to capture the essence of the scene. He was particularly interested in the way the light played on the stone, creating a constantly shifting mosaic of shadows and highlights. Astrid and I sat on a nearby bench, enjoying the peace and quiet. We talked about the things we had seen and done, and about our plans for the rest of our trip. It was a moment of perfect contentment, a chance to connect with each other and with the world around us.

As the sun began to set, the sky exploded with color. Hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the horizon, casting a magical glow over the city. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a moment that will stay with me forever.

Sassi in Miniatura: A World in Miniature

Before dinner, we made a stop at Sassi in Miniatura.


Explore Sassi in Miniatura in Matera for unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this historic city's captivating cave dwellings.

A workshop and museum dedicated to miniature limestone models of old Matera. I was intrigued by the idea of seeing the city in miniature, of gaining a new perspective on its layout and architecture.

The workshop was a treasure trove of tiny buildings, each one meticulously crafted from local stone. The attention to detail was astonishing, with every window, door, and roof tile perfectly replicated. It was like stepping into a dollhouse version of Matera.

The artist, Eustachio Rizzi, was on hand to greet us. He was a warm and engaging man, passionate about his craft. He explained the process of creating the miniatures, from the initial sketches to the final touches. He spoke with pride about his work, and about his desire to share the beauty of Matera with the world.

Lasse was fascinated by the technical aspects of the miniatures. He peppered Rizzi with questions about the tools and techniques he used. Astrid, meanwhile, was interested in the historical context of the buildings. She asked Rizzi about the stories behind the various structures, and about the people who had lived in them.

I was simply captivated by the beauty of the miniatures. They were like tiny works of art, each one a testament to the skill and dedication of the artist. I purchased a small model of the Duomo as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in Matera.

As we left Sassi in Miniatura, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this unique place. It was a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that even the smallest of things can hold great significance.

We ended our day with a delicious dinner at La Grotta Del Gusto.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Grotta Del Gusto in Matera - where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

Savoring traditional Lucanian cuisine. The meal was a perfect end to a perfect day, a celebration of the flavors and aromas of Matera. As we walked back to our accommodation, the city was bathed in moonlight, its ancient stones glowing with an ethereal light. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of this place, a place that has captured my heart and soul.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi, Palazzo del Casale, and the Cave di Matera. I am looking forward to discovering more of Matera's hidden gems.

Today was a reminder that travel is more than just seeing new places; it's about connecting with the history, culture, and people of those places. It's about opening our minds and hearts to new experiences, and about creating memories that will last a lifetime. As I reflect on our day in Matera, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family. It is moments like these that make life truly rich and meaningful.