Family Adventure in Matera: Exploring Italy's Ancient Wonders

Echoes of the Past in Matera

Today was a day of truly immersing ourselves in the history and culture of Matera. It’s amazing how a city can hold so many stories within its ancient stones. I felt like a building restoration consultant again, seeing the layers of history exposed before my very eyes. Mateus was especially excited, his curiosity piqued by the tales of people who lived in these very spaces centuries ago.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at DIMITRIA | Il ristorante. The aroma of fresh Italian coffee filled the air, blending perfectly with the anticipation of the day ahead. Isabela enjoyed a *caffè latte*, while Mateus devoured his *cornetto* with gusto. I opted for a simple espresso, savoring the rich, bold flavor that always reminds me of my days back in Ouro Preto. It was a perfect start to a day dedicated to exploring Matera's hidden gems.

Our first stop was the MUdeSCA - Museo dello Scavo Matera. This museum is built within a network of caves, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. As a historical building restoration consultant, I was particularly intrigued by the architectural techniques used to carve out these spaces from the rock. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Matera from its earliest settlements to more recent times. Mateus was captivated by the displays, asking endless questions about the people who once lived and worked in these caves. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect him with history in a tangible and engaging way.


Explore the archaeological treasures of Matera at MUdeSCA, a museum dedicated to the region's rich history and ancient civilizations.

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

After MUdeSCA, we ventured into the Rione Malve , one of the oldest and most evocative neighborhoods in Matera. This area is a maze of narrow streets, staircases, and cave dwellings, each with its own unique story to tell. As we wandered through the Rione, I imagined what life must have been like for the people who lived here centuries ago. The Sassi, with their intricate network of houses and alleyways, offered a glimpse into a world where community and resilience were essential for survival. Isabela was particularly moved by the simplicity and ingenuity of the cave dwellings, remarking on how people managed to create homes out of solid rock. Mateus, ever the explorer, loved clambering up the steps and peeking into the doorways, imagining himself as a knight or a medieval craftsman.


Discover the historic charm and breathtaking views of Rione Malve, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Matera, Italy, famous for its ancient cave dwellings.

For lunch, we stopped at La Grotta Del Gusto. This charming restaurant is nestled inside a cave, providing a unique and atmospheric dining experience. We savored traditional Lucanian dishes, such as *orecchiette* pasta with *cime di rapa* and *peperoni cruschi*. The flavors were rich and authentic, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. Mateus, surprisingly, enjoyed the *peperoni cruschi*, a local specialty of crispy, dried bell peppers. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant, combined with the delicious food, made it a memorable meal. The fact that La Grotta Del Gusto is located in a cave that once served as a home only added to the experience, further connecting us to Matera's rich past.


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

In the afternoon, we descended into the Palombaro Lungo , an ancient underground cistern that once provided water to the city. This vast, cathedral-like space is an incredible feat of engineering, a testament to the ingenuity of Matera's inhabitants. As we explored the Palombaro, I couldn't help but marvel at the scale and complexity of the structure. The cool, damp air added to the sense of mystery, as we imagined the cistern filled with water, sustaining the city during times of drought. Mateus was fascinated by the echoes that reverberated through the space, testing them out with shouts and laughter. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, a reminder of the resourcefulness and determination of the people who built this remarkable city.


Explore the underground marvel of Palombaro Lungo in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of ancient water storage and community resilience.

Before dinner, we decided to relax and unwind at L'Antica Credenza - Bistrot. This cozy bar offered a welcome respite from our busy day of sightseeing. Isabela and I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Mateus sipped on a refreshing *succo di frutta*. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect spot to soak in the ambiance of Matera. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, sharing stories and recommendations about the city. It was a delightful interlude, a chance to recharge before our final culinary adventure of the day.


Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at L'Antica Credenza, a charming bistro offering local specialties and a cozy atmosphere.

For our final meal, we dined at Osteria Belvedere al Vecchio Frantoio. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional Lucanian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. We savored dishes such as *fave e cicoria* (fava beans and chicory) and grilled lamb, each bite bursting with flavor. The restaurant's rustic décor and soft lighting created a cozy and intimate setting, perfect for a family dinner. Mateus, despite his earlier enthusiasm for *peperoni cruschi*, opted for a simple pasta dish, which he devoured with gusto. It was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery, a celebration of Matera's culinary and cultural heritage.


Experience authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Matera at Osteria Belvedere al Vecchio Frantoio, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled through the streets of Matera, hand in hand, marveling at the beauty of the city bathed in the soft glow of the evening light. The Sassi, with their ancient stones and winding alleyways, seemed to come alive at night, their secrets whispered on the breeze. It was a magical moment, a reminder of the timeless allure of this extraordinary place. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we're off to Metaponto, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, and Cava Del Sole. It's hard to believe this adventure is almost over, but I'm excited to see what Matera has in store for us on our final day!

Back at Hydria Residence, Mateus fell asleep almost instantly, dreaming of caves and cisterns, no doubt. Isabela and I sat on the balcony, sipping *limoncello* and reflecting on our day. Matera had truly captured our hearts, its ancient stones whispering tales of resilience, ingenuity, and community. As I looked out over the city, I felt a deep connection to this place, a sense of belonging that transcended time and space.


Discover Hydria Residence, your budget-friendly oasis in Matera, providing comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities for all travelers.

I am really looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit Metaponto, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, and Cava Del Sole, before heading back home to Kingston. I plan to get Mateus a souvenir from Incampo Boutique, so he can remember this trip.