Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Matera with Family

Echoes in Stone

Today was a day of delving deeper into the soul of Matera, a city that seems to breathe history from every stone. It’s fascinating how much this place has to offer beyond the well-trodden paths of the Sassi. Astrid and Lasse joined me, eager to uncover more of what Matera holds. Today’s journey was about finding those quieter, more contemplative spots where the past whispers secrets to those who listen.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Dedalo - Sensi sommersi. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a good meal, especially when you know you'll be doing a lot of walking. Fully energised, we set out to explore the wonders that Matera held for us today.


Discover Dedalo - Sensi sommersi in Matera: where exquisite cuisine meets elegant ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.

Our first stop was the Parco Scultura La Palomba. Leaving the car, the landscape opened up before us: a sprawling park nestled within an old tufo quarry. The June sun was already warm, casting long shadows that danced around the colossal sculptures created by Antonio Paradiso. It was quite a sight to behold. These weren't just sculptures; they were statements, rising from the very earth that birthed them. Lasse, ever the observant one, was immediately drawn to a piece crafted from remnants of the Twin Towers. It stood as a stark reminder of loss and resilience, a theme that seemed to resonate with Matera itself.


Explore Parco Scultura La Palomba, a stunning outdoor sculpture park in Matera, Italy, where contemporary art meets breathtaking natural beauty.

As we wandered through the park, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to the land, much like the connection I feel when working with wood in my workshop back in Silkeborg. The way Paradiso integrated his art with the natural surroundings was masterful. The rugged stone, the open sky, and the thought-provoking art created a space for reflection, a place where you could lose yourself in thought. Astrid, always the art enthusiast, was captivated by the sheer scale and ambition of the sculptures. She spent ages photographing each piece from different angles, trying to capture the essence of Paradiso's vision.

The stones of Matera tell stories not just of the past, but of the enduring human spirit that continues to shape its future.

After a morning immersed in art, our stomachs began to rumble, leading us to Regiacorte - L’eccellenza del Territorio for lunch. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a delightful array of local specialties. We savored the flavors of Matera, from the hearty bread to the rich pasta dishes. It was a welcome respite, and the perfect opportunity to recharge before our afternoon explorations. I found myself thinking how similar this was to some of the simple, yet delicious, lunches I have in Arezzo when visiting my family. It's funny how food can transport you back to a specific moment in time.


Discover Regiacorte in Matera: where authentic Italian flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a charming setting.

Our next destination was the Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce. This rock church required a bit of a trek, but the effort was well worth it. The church is perched on the edge of the Gravina gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The modest facade belied the historical and artistic treasures within. Inside, the walls were adorned with frescoes, their colors faded yet still vibrant. The church was small, intimate, and filled with a sense of reverence that transcended time. It was a humbling experience to stand in a place where people had gathered to worship for centuries, their hopes and prayers echoing in the stone.


Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce, a must-visit shrine in the stunning city of Matera.

Lasse, who usually prefers the outdoors, was surprisingly moved by the church. He spent a long time examining the frescoes, his initial skepticism replaced by genuine curiosity. Astrid, ever the historian, pointed out the various artistic influences, from Byzantine to Romanesque, weaving a narrative of the church's evolution. I found myself drawn to the simplicity of the space, the way the light filtered through the small windows, creating an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. In fact, the Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce is currently not visitable, which is a shame, but we could admire it from the outside.

Our final stop of the day was the Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci. This cave complex was a labyrinth of interconnected spaces, each with its own unique history and character. The complex was once a monastery, then a wine production facility, and now a venue for contemporary art exhibitions. It was fascinating to see how the space had been transformed over the centuries, adapting to the needs and tastes of each era. As we explored the various chambers, we discovered hidden frescoes, ancient inscriptions, and stunning views of the Murgia. It was like stepping back in time, each layer of history revealing itself with every step.


Explore the historic Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci, a stunning rock-hewn complex in Matera filled with art and spirituality.

The Madonna delle Virtù was particularly striking. The architecture was carved directly into the rock, creating a seamless blend of nature and human artistry. San Nicola dei Greci, accessed via a narrow staircase, was equally impressive. Despite some collapses over the centuries, the remaining frescoes offered a glimpse into the Byzantine artistry that once flourished here. I was particularly struck by the triptych of Saints Nicola, Barbara, and Pantaleone, their faces still vivid after centuries. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring power of faith and art.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at 1806 Cocktail bar, a cozy spot to unwind and reflect on our adventures. Over Aperol Spritz, we shared our favorite moments of the day, each of us touched by the beauty and history of Matera in our own way. Lasse, surprisingly, declared the Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce his highlight, while Astrid was still buzzing about the Parco Scultura La Palomba. For me, it was the Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci, a place where the past and present converged in a truly remarkable way.


Discover the art of mixology at 1806 Cocktail Bar in Matera, where every cocktail is a masterpiece crafted for your enjoyment.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Matera adventure. We plan to visit the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, Palombaro lungo, and Sculpture Park La Palomba. It's bittersweet to think that our time here is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made will stay with us long after we've left. Matera has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your heart with its ancient beauty and timeless charm. It's a place that I know I'll return to someday, to once again wander its streets and listen to the echoes of the past.

And so, as the sun sets over Matera, I raise a glass to this remarkable city, to its resilient people, and to the enduring power of history and art. Ciao for now, and stay tuned for our final Matera musings!

Before heading back to our Residenza del Monaco Bianco, we took a moment to appreciate the Matera night sky. Away from the city lights, the stars shone with an intensity that I rarely see back home in Silkeborg. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, waiting to be discovered.


Discover the charm of Matera at Residenza del Monaco Bianco, the perfect budget-friendly hotel for exploring local sights and culture.

Back at the Residenza del Monaco Bianco, I sat down to write, the events of the day fresh in my mind. It's a privilege to share these experiences with you, to offer a glimpse into the soul of Matera. I hope that my words have inspired you to visit this remarkable city, to wander its streets, and to listen to the echoes of the past. It's an experience that you won't soon forget.