Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Matera with Friends

Discovering Matera's Soul: Art, History, and Hidden Gems

Today was a day of exploring the layers of Matera, peeling back the centuries to reveal art etched in stone and stories whispered in ancient churches. With my friends by my side, I set out to discover the artistic heart and historical echoes of this fascinating city. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in places where the past and present intertwine so seamlessly.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Dedalo - Sensi sommersi. The restaurant itself is quite the experience, a labyrinth of spaces carved into the rock. It felt like stepping into another world, with a red thread on the floor connecting the different areas, symbolizing the link between the past and present. The atmosphere was truly unique, and the food was delicious. I had some amazing ravioli, which gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve. This rock church, dating back to the 8th century, was once the first female monastic settlement of the Benedictine Order in Matera. It's incredible to think that this place has been a site of worship for over a millennium. As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the ancient frescoes that adorned the walls. These paintings, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, depict various religious figures and scenes. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the nuns who once prayed here, their voices echoing through the centuries. The church's history is palpable, with each stone whispering tales of devotion and resilience.


Explore Matera's Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, a rock-hewn church with ancient frescoes and a rich Benedictine history.

The beauty of Matera lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the way it invites you to connect with the past, to feel the echoes of generations who have walked these ancient stones.

What struck me most about Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve was the sense of peace and serenity that permeated the space. Despite the crowds of tourists, there was a quiet reverence that seemed to hang in the air. Perhaps it was the weight of history, or perhaps it was the simple beauty of the frescoes, but whatever the reason, I felt a sense of calm wash over me as I stood in that ancient church. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to connect with something larger than myself. Isabella would have loved this place. She always appreciates the serenity of historical places.

Leaving the church, we headed to Sculpture Park La Palomba, a place where art and nature come together in a truly unique way. Located in a reclaimed quarry, the park features a collection of contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of the rugged Matera landscape. The contrast between the ancient stones and the modern art was striking, creating a dialogue between the past and present.


Discover Sculpture Park La Palomba in Matera: an open-air museum where contemporary art blends seamlessly with the beauty of the Basilicata landscape.

As we wandered through the park, we were struck by the diversity of the sculptures on display. Some were abstract and geometric, while others were more figurative and representational. Each piece seemed to tell a story, inviting us to contemplate its meaning and message. I was particularly drawn to a sculpture made from fragments of the World Trade Center, a poignant reminder of loss and resilience. Antonio Paradiso, a contemporary sculptor, has many of his works displayed in the park.

The Sculpture Park wasn't just a feast for the eyes; it was also a place to connect with nature. The park is located in an abandoned quarry, and the sculptures are exhibited in a natural environment, surrounded by greenery. As we walked along the paths, we could hear the sound of birds singing and the wind rustling through the trees. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a chance to reconnect with the natural world. Sofia would have loved running around the park, exploring all the sculptures and hidden corners. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

For lunch, we stopped at Il Rusticone, a charming spot near the old part of Matera. Veronica greeted us with a smile as bright as the Italian sun. We opted for sandwiches with puccia, the local flat bread, toasted to perfection and filled with local ham, cheese, and vegetables. It was the perfect casual lunch, and the local wine Veronica recommended was superb.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Rusticone in Matera - where every pizza tells a story.

In the late afternoon, we decided to relax at zipa café. What a find! This place is carved into a cave, with seating perched on the cliffside. The views were incredible, and the cocktails were delicious. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and we ended up staying for a couple of hours, chatting and enjoying the stunning scenery.


Discover the unique charm of Zipa Café, a perfect retreat for tourists in the historic city of Matera, offering delightful drinks and snacks.

As evening approached, we headed to Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh for dinner. The restaurant is located in the historic center of Matera, in the beautiful Piazza Ridola. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were friendly and attentive. We started with some delicious antipasti, followed by wood-fired pizzas. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful, and the pizza was cooked to perfection. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Matera's artistic and historical treasures.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and fresh seafood.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Matera's ancient churches, including the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista and the Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci. I'm also looking forward to browsing the local shops for souvenirs and unique crafts. There’s a shop called IDEAS that sounds promising. Each day here reveals something new and wonderful.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with different cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Matera has a way of getting under your skin, of capturing your imagination and stirring your soul. It's a place that I will never forget, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my friends. Their laughter and companionship make every moment even more special. As we walked back to our hotel, under the starlit sky, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Matera, with its ancient stones and artistic soul, had captured a piece of my heart. And I knew, with absolute certainty, that this was a journey I would cherish forever.

On a side note, I really need to remember to buy an extra memory card for my camera. I am running out of space for all these amazing photos!