Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Matera with Friends

A Journey to the Past

After months of anticipation, our trip to Matera with my friends has finally begun! As a financial analyst from Toronto, I often find myself buried in spreadsheets and market trends. But today, I traded those for the ancient streets and cave dwellings of Matera. Isabella and Sofia would have loved this, I will make sure to bring them next time. This city, with its rich history and unique landscape, is already proving to be an unforgettable experience.

The journey here was quite something. After flying from Toronto to Rome, we hopped on a train to Matera. The Italian countryside whizzed by, a blur of vineyards and olive groves, building up my excitement for what was to come. And let me tell you, Matera did not disappoint.

Our accommodation, Sant Angelo Matera, is an experience in itself. Staying in elegantly restored cave rooms is like stepping back in time, but with all the modern comforts we could ask for. After settling in, we were eager to start our exploration.


Experience the unique charm of Sant Angelo Matera, a luxurious cave hotel in the historic Sassi district, blending elegance with history.

Our first stop was the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through this ancient settlement felt surreal. The Sassi are essentially cave dwellings carved into the rock, and they have been inhabited for thousands of years. It’s hard to believe that people lived in these conditions until the mid-20th century. The history here is palpable, and every corner tells a story.

The Sassi are not just a collection of old stones; they are a living testament to human resilience and ingenuity.

We wandered through the maze-like streets, marveling at the architecture and the way the city is built into the natural landscape. The autumn air was crisp, and the sun cast long shadows, creating a dramatic effect on the stone buildings. I could almost imagine what life was like centuries ago, with families living in these caves, working the land, and building a community.


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

Next, we visited Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera. This was a fascinating glimpse into the past. The Casa Grotta is a traditional cave dwelling furnished with authentic furniture and tools from when it was inhabited. It was eye-opening to see how families lived in these small, simple spaces, often with their animals. The guide explained how they used the limited resources available to them and how they adapted to the harsh conditions. It made me appreciate the comforts of modern life and the ingenuity of the people who lived here before us.


Step back in time and experience the unique troglodyte lifestyle of Matera's Sassi inhabitants at Casa Grotta.

For breakfast, we stopped at Trattoria del Caveoso. This charming restaurant is nestled in the heart of the Sassi and offers traditional Lucanian cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with stone walls and rustic décor. I ordered a cappuccino and a pasticciotto, a local pastry filled with custard. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling us for our explorations.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria del Caveoso in Matera - where tradition meets flavor amidst breathtaking scenery.

Lunch was at Il Terrazzino, a restaurant known for its panoramic views. And the view did not disappoint. From the terrace, we could see the entire Sassi di Matera spread out before us. The food was delicious too. I had the orecchiette al ragu, a typical Apulian pasta dish, and it was cooked to perfection. The service was excellent, and the staff was friendly and attentive. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at Il Terrazzino in Matera – where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Ristorante Francesca. This restaurant is located in a cave, adding to the unique ambiance. The menu featured local specialties, and I opted for the grilled lamb with rosemary potatoes. The lamb was tender and flavorful, and the potatoes were crispy and perfectly seasoned. The restaurant had a romantic atmosphere, with soft lighting and attentive service. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Matera.


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

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Monkey Drink House, a local bar known for its cocktails. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and the bartender was a mixology master. I ordered a Negroni, and it was expertly crafted. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring and to soak in the local culture.


Experience the best of Matera’s cocktail culture at Monkey Drink House, where innovative drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for this experience. Matera is a city that truly captivates the senses and stirs the soul. The history, the landscape, the food, and the people all come together to create something truly special. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit the Crypt of Original Sin and Palazzo Lanfranchi. It’s going to be another day filled with history and culture, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. Also, I am planning to get a unique souvenir from Unique Store Italy for Matera. I think Sofia would appreciate that.

Until then, arrivederci from Matera!