Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Matera with Friends

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of deep dives – into history, art, and the flavors of Matera. With my friends by my side, I set out to explore more of this fascinating city, eager to uncover new layers of its ancient soul. Little did I know, today's journey would be a sensory feast, blending the visual splendor of centuries-old architecture with the tantalizing tastes of Lucanian cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Osteria MateraMì. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we settled in, ready to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for a simple yet satisfying breakfast of crusty bread with local jam and a cappuccino. The Osteria MateraMì is known for its traditional cuisine and warm hospitality. Sipping my coffee, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this city with my friends. Isabella would have loved this place, I thought, picturing her enjoying the local delicacies. We reminisced about our time in Colombia, comparing the flavors of arepas to the bread we were currently enjoying. It's funny how food can transport you back to cherished memories. After breakfast, we set off towards our first destination: the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso.


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

As we approached the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, its Baroque facade stood majestically against the backdrop of the Sassi. The church, built in 1218 and renovated over the centuries, is a testament to the enduring spirit of Matera. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the serene atmosphere and the beautiful frescoes adorning the walls. The church is not dug into the tufa rock, and has a Romanesque-baroque facade from the 17th-century. The interior was adorned with sculptures and frescoes that echoed the spirituality and dedication of its creators. I took a moment to admire the wooden polyptych dating back to 1540, depicting the Madonna and Child between Saints Peter and Paul.


Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, a captivating church in the heart of Matera's ancient landscape.

Visiting Matera is not just about seeing old stones; it's about feeling the weight of history and the resilience of the human spirit.

After soaking in the beauty of the church, we made our way to Casa Noha. This 16th-century family home has been transformed into a multimedia exhibit that tells the story of Matera's history. As we entered, we were greeted by a minimalist room with wall-mounted plaques and a central table. The 25-minute multimedia exhibit details the history of the town and Sassi cave dwellings. The video, designed by Giovanni Carrada, offered a complete overview of the city's history from its origins to today. It was a great starting point for our tour of Matera. The exhibit was incredibly moving, painting a vivid picture of the lives of the people who had called these cave dwellings home for centuries. I found myself reflecting on the challenges they faced and the incredible strength they demonstrated in the face of adversity. It was a stark reminder of how far we've come and the importance of preserving our history. We learned about Matera's ancient roots, architecture and landscapes. The information we received at Casa Noha made our visit to the old city and the Sassi much more worthwhile.


Discover the heart of Matera's history at Casa Noha, a heritage museum that showcases the city's rich cultural evolution and captivating stories.

With a deeper understanding of Matera's past, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Kapunto Matera, a restaurant known for its fresh, handmade pasta. The menu offered a wide selection of pasta types, from orecchiette to ravioli, with various sauces to choose from. I decided to try the orecchiette with a simple tomato and basil sauce, wanting to savor the pure flavors of the ingredients. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauce was bursting with freshness. It was a truly satisfying meal that left me feeling energized for the rest of the day. I enjoyed the fresh pasta with tomato sauce and basil.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Kapunto Matera, where traditional recipes meet local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we found ourselves at JAR - Beer, Wine & Bites, a cozy bar in the heart of Matera. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with locals and tourists mingling over drinks and appetizers. I ordered a glass of local red wine and savored the moment, reflecting on the incredible day we had experienced. The wine was the perfect complement to the delicious appetizers, and the company was even better. We laughed, shared stories, and made plans for the days ahead. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the ultimate blend of craft beer, fine wines, and delicious bites at JAR in the heart of Matera.

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante Burro Salato, known for its fusion of French and Lucanian cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was elegant and inviting, with soft lighting and tasteful decor. I decided to try one of their signature dishes, the lamb with local herbs and spices. The lamb was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were complex and harmonious. It was a truly memorable meal that showcased the best of both culinary worlds. The restaurant offers a mix of French and Lucanian cuisine. The quality and flavor of the food was outstanding.


Experience the best of French and Lucanian cuisine at Ristorante Burro Salato in Matera – a true culinary journey awaits.

As I sit here now, writing about our day, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Matera. This city has a way of captivating you, drawing you in with its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a reminder of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Palombaro Lungo and Castello Tramontano. I am looking forward to another day of discovery in this enchanting city.

The events of today have given me much to think about. Matera is a city where time seems to stand still, where the past is always present. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the ancient stones and find yourself in the warmth of the local people. As we continue our journey, I know that Matera will hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of history, culture, and human connection.