An Enchanting Escape to Matera: Discovering Italy's Hidden Gem

A Journey to the Past

Today marked the beginning of our Matera adventure, and what an incredible start it was! Jean-Pierre and I were immediately captivated by the city's unique charm, a place where time seems to stand still. It felt like stepping into a living museum, each stone whispering tales of centuries past. The summer sun cast long shadows, highlighting the honey-colored stone, as we began our exploration of this ancient city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Il Fiore del Latte. The aroma of fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we stepped inside. I opted for a *panino* with *prosciutto* and *mozzarella*, while Jean-Pierre chose a sweet *brioche* filled with *crema*. The perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring! The owner, Marisa, was incredibly kind, recommending local cheeses and *salumi* that we absolutely had to try. It's these little local experiences that make traveling so special.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Il Fiore del Latte in Matera – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore the famed Sassi di Matera. As we wandered through the narrow, winding streets, I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenious architecture. Houses built into caves, one on top of the other, creating a mesmerizing labyrinth of stone. It was fascinating to learn that people have lived in these dwellings since the Paleolithic period! I could only imagine what life must have been like for those early inhabitants, carving out their homes from the rock.


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

Matera is the only place in the world where people can boast to be still living in the same houses of their ancestors of 9,000 years ago.

Jean-Pierre, ever the history enthusiast, was in his element, pointing out architectural details and sharing historical facts he'd gleaned from his pre-trip research. I was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the magic of this extraordinary place. The Sassi are truly a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities for stunning shots. The way the light plays on the stone, the textures of the ancient walls, the glimpses of daily life unfolding in hidden corners – it's all so incredibly photogenic.

Next on our itinerary was Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera, a meticulously preserved cave dwelling that offered a glimpse into 18th-century Materan life. Stepping inside felt like traveling back in time. The humble kitchen, the cozy bedrooms, the underground cistern – every detail spoke volumes about the resourcefulness and resilience of the people who once called this place home. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of the simple yet challenging lives of those who came before us.


Explore the unique cave dwelling of Casa Grotta nei Sassi in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and culture.

I found myself particularly drawn to the kitchen area, imagining the women of the household preparing meals over an open fire. It made me think of my own grandmother and the stories she used to tell about growing up in rural Massachusetts. Even though our backgrounds are vastly different, there's something universal about the experiences of women throughout history.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Unique Store Italy for Matera. It was a delightful little shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I was on the hunt for a special memento to remind me of our time in Matera, and I wasn't disappointed. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate, its vibrant colors reflecting the warmth and vibrancy of the city.


Explore Unique Store Italy in Matera for authentic local crafts and souvenirs that embody the artistry and culture of this historic city.

Jean-Pierre, meanwhile, found a unique wooden stamp, traditionally used for decorating bread. The shopkeeper explained that these stamps were often passed down through families, each one telling a story of heritage and tradition. It was such a thoughtful and meaningful souvenir.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Trattoria del Caveoso. We sat at a table overlooking the Sassi, savoring the stunning views as we perused the menu. I opted for the *cavatelli* with *peperoni cruschi*, a local specialty, while Jean-Pierre chose the *fave e cicorie*. The food was simple yet delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients of the region. The *peperoni cruschi* added a delightful crunch and a hint of spice to my dish, while Jean-Pierre raved about the earthy flavors of his *fave e cicorie*.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Ristorante Soul Kitchen - Cucina per l' Anima for dinner. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic ambiance. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by a glass of *Primitivo*. For my main course, I chose the *ravioli*, while Jean-Pierre opted for the *sirloin steak*. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The *ravioli* were delicate and flavorful, while Jean-Pierre's steak was cooked to perfection.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Soul Kitchen in Matera - where every dish tells a story.

The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and friendly. Our waiter, whose name was Marco, was particularly helpful, recommending dishes and sharing insights into the local cuisine. He even surprised us with a complimentary *panna cotta* for dessert, a sweet and creamy treat that was the perfect ending to our meal.

As we walked back to Hotel San Giorgio Matera under the starlit sky, hand in hand, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences of the day. Matera had exceeded all our expectations, captivating us with its beauty, its history, and its charm. It was a day filled with discovery, delight, and a deep appreciation for the unique culture of this extraordinary city.


Discover the charm of Matera at Hotel San Giorgio, where comfort meets convenience. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, family-friendly amenities, and local attractions.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio, Palazzo Lanfranchi, and Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra. I'm particularly excited about visiting the rock churches! Before that, we'll grab breakfast at Ristorante '900 Casa Taccardi and perhaps end the day with a drink at Monkey Drink House. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!

Before I end this entry, I must say that I felt a pang of guilt for forgetting the adapter for Italian power outlets. Jean-Pierre was kind enough to share his, but I'll need to purchase one tomorrow if I want to keep my camera and phone charged.

I'm also regretting not packing a light rain jacket. The weather forecast for the next few days is unpredictable, and I don't want to be caught unprepared. I'll definitely need to add that to my shopping list as well!

All in all, it was a fantastic first day in Matera, but I know that having those two items would have made it even better.