Family Adventure in Matera: Exploring Italy's Ancient Wonders

A Day Amongst the Ancients

Today marked the beginning of our family adventure in Matera, and what a start it was! Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Kingston, we plunged headfirst into a world where time seems to stand still. Matera, with its ancient cave dwellings and winding streets, has already cast its spell on us. It felt surreal to walk through a city that has been inhabited for thousands of years, a stark contrast to the relative newness of our Canadian home. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling – to feel connected to the long, intricate story of humanity.

Our journey from Bari was smooth, and the anticipation grew with every kilometer as we approached Matera. Mateus was especially excited, peppering us with questions about the cave houses and how people lived in them. Isabela, ever the history enthusiast, had her guidebook open, sharing fascinating facts about the city's past. It's moments like these that make traveling as a family so rewarding, seeing the world through each other's eyes and learning together.

We started our exploration in the heart of it all: the Sassi di Matera. It's hard to describe the feeling of wandering through these ancient streets, where houses are carved directly into the rock. The Sassi are divided into two main districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. We spent most of our time in Sasso Caveoso, which is known for its more ancient and less renovated dwellings. As a historical building restoration consultant, I was in awe of the ingenuity and resilience of the people who built and lived in these homes. The way they adapted to the natural landscape, using the caves for shelter and building structures that seamlessly blend with the rock, is truly remarkable. Mateus was fascinated by the idea of living in a cave, and I could see his imagination running wild as he explored the narrow passageways and peered into the dark recesses of the dwellings.


Discover the mesmerizing Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient cave dwellings and breathtaking architecture in Italy.

The stones of Matera whisper stories of survival, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

Next, we ventured into Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera, a preserved cave dwelling that offered a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The simple furnishings, the rough-hewn walls, and the dim light all spoke of a life far removed from our modern comforts. It was humbling to imagine families living in these conditions, generation after generation, carving out a life from the rock. Isabela pointed out the various tools and implements used for cooking, farming, and daily life, bringing the history to life for Mateus. The Casa Grotta really highlighted how resourceful and resilient the people of Matera were, adapting to the landscape and creating a sustainable way of life.


Discover the unique cave dwellings and rich history of Matera at Casa Grotta nei Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient life.

As we wandered, we stumbled upon a Matera gift shop and decided to pop in. Mateus, of course, was immediately drawn to the small, hand-painted ceramic whistles shaped like the traditional 'cucù' roosters, a symbol of Matera. We picked up a few as souvenirs, along with some local honey and almond biscotti. It's always nice to support local artisans and bring a little piece of the place home with us.


Explore the authentic charm of Matera with unique handcrafted gifts and local delicacies at this enchanting gift shop.

For lunch, we stopped at Osteria MateraMì, a charming restaurant just outside the Sassi with stunning views of the city. The warm and cozy ambiance was perfect for a family meal, and the menu featured a variety of dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. We started with the mashed bean appetizer, a local specialty, followed by black chickpea pasta for me and lamb stew for Isabela. Mateus, predictably, opted for a simple pasta with tomato sauce, which he devoured with gusto. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the view was simply breathtaking. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration.


Experience traditional Italian flavors at Osteria MateraMì in beautiful Matera - where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we made our way to the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio, perched on the highest point of Matera. The cathedral's Romanesque architecture is striking, with its intricate carvings and stunning rose window. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a serene atmosphere and the sight of beautiful frescoes, ornate altars, and an impressive wooden ceiling. Isabela lit a candle for her grandmother, and we took a moment to appreciate the spiritual significance of this place. The cathedral's location also offered panoramic views of the Sassi, providing a different perspective on the ancient city. It was a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the importance of preserving these historical landmarks.


Experience the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Matera's Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio, a must-see landmark.

Before dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos. The light in the late afternoon was magical, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the stone buildings. We found a small piazza where Mateus could run around and play, and we sat on a bench, enjoying the warmth of the sun. It's moments like these, the simple joys of travel, that I cherish the most.

Dinner was at Ristorante Francesca, a cozy place known for its traditional Materan cuisine. The restaurant had a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We decided to try the local specialty, *crapiata*, a hearty soup made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and grains. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring, warming us from the inside out. Mateus, surprisingly, enjoyed the soup as well, declaring it even better than his usual pasta.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Francesca in Matera - where tradition meets taste in a delightful dining atmosphere.

As the day drew to a close, we walked back to our accommodation at Hydria Residence, our hearts full of the day's experiences. The beauty and history of Matera had captivated us all, and we were eager to see what tomorrow would bring. We are staying at a comfortable residence that offers family-friendly amenities, which is just what we need after a long day of exploring.


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

Before heading to bed, I took some time to reflect on the day. Matera is a city that stays with you, its ancient stones whispering stories of survival, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. It's a place that reminds you of the importance of preserving our history and cherishing our cultural heritage. As someone who works in historical building restoration, I feel a deep connection to this city and its people. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family and to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am so glad we remembered to bring my camera, as I was able to capture some beautiful memories of our first day in Matera. I wish we had remembered the umbrella, though, as the weather forecast predicts some rain tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, the Crypt of Original Sin, and the Church of Saint Mary of Idris. I'm particularly excited about the park, as it will give us a chance to see Matera from a different perspective and to connect with the natural landscape. I might try to sneak away for a quick drink at Monkey Drink House, a local bar, while Isabela and Mateus rest. Good night from Matera!