Exploring the Timeless Charm of Matera, Italy

Echoes of the Past

Today, Matera revealed more of its captivating soul. From the serene depths of ancient churches to the panoramic views that stretch across the Sassi, every moment was a step deeper into the heart of this historical city. Jürgen and I were eager to soak in all that Matera had to offer, and today did not disappoint.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Pietra Viva. Fortunately, the reviews were wrong because it was a delightful way to start the day. After a wonderful breakfast we headed to our first destination: the Church of Saint Mary of Idris.


Explore the Church of Saint Mary of Idris in Matera: A stunning rock-hewn church blending history, spirituality, and breathtaking views of the iconic Sassi landscape.

The Church of Saint Mary of Idris was an absolutely unique experience. Carved into the rock, it felt like stepping back centuries. Although photography was not allowed inside, the reproductions of the frescoes on the entrance ticket were a great way to remember the intricate details. It's amazing to think that this church dates back to the 12th century. I was able to appreciate the exterior beauty and stunning views overlooking Matera. The church's rock structure and ancient frescoes added to its charm. I did notice some vandalized frescoes, a sad reminder of the past when there were no restrictions. It's definitely one of the most beautiful and popular rock churches in Matera. It is perched on the upper part of Monterrone, the cliff that lies in the middle of Sasso Caveoso. The name Idris, I learned, comes from the Greek word Odigitria, meaning she who shows the way.

Next, we ventured to Casa Noha, a multimedia exhibit housed in a 16th-century family home. This was such a worthwhile experience. It gave us such an intimate description and understanding of the people and the place that it stayed with us wherever we wandered. The 25-minute presentation detailed the history of Matera and the Sassi cave dwellings, providing a fantastic context for the rest of our exploration. It was fascinating to see how the early inhabitants lived and how Matera evolved over time. The audio-visual tour guided us through the city's long history, from its prehistoric origins to its periods of prosperity. It was an informative experience that truly enhanced our understanding of Matera's ancient roots and unique architecture. I found myself particularly drawn to the kitchen, the only room in Casa Noha with its original wallpaper.


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

Leaving Casa Noha, we made our way to the Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. The panoramic views from this observation deck were simply breathtaking. From here, we could see the entire Sassi di Matera spread out before us, a tapestry of ancient dwellings and winding streets. The interplay of light and shadow on the rock formations was magical, especially as the afternoon sun began to dip lower in the sky. It was the perfect spot to pause, take a deep breath, and soak in the beauty of Matera. We took our time, relaxed, and immersed ourselves in the tranquil ambiance that this location offered. The views were a perfect panorama of ancient history interwoven with modern life.


Discover the captivating views at Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, Matera's premier observation deck with stunning panoramas of the ancient city.

To truly understand a place, you must walk its streets, breathe its air, and listen to the echoes of its past.

For lunch, we chose La Pignata, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Italian cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Jürgen and I shared a traditional Materan dish, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant's decor added to the experience, with its rustic charm and cozy ambiance. It was a delightful culinary journey.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pignata in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, I was eager to do some shopping, so we visited BG Arte, a local shop showcasing contemporary artworks. I found a beautiful piece of pottery to bring home as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in Matera. Jürgen, ever the architect, appreciated the craftsmanship and design of the various pieces on display. It was a lovely way to support local artists and find a unique memento of our trip.


Explore BG Arte in Matera for an authentic taste of local craftsmanship and unique handcrafted treasures.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Spaghetteria Miseria e Nobiltà Matera for dinner. The name alone intrigued us, and the restaurant did not disappoint. We enjoyed a delicious spaghetti dish, savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was lively and welcoming. I had the pasta allo scoglio. The search of products from local artisans, the quality of the ingredients and the passion of the people are the cornerstones of the restaurant's philosophy. The restaurant has tables indoors in an air-conditioned environment and outdoors in the pedestrian area. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Spaghetteria Miseria e Nobiltà in Matera—where every dish tells a story.

Tonight, as I reflect on our experiences, I am struck by the depth of Matera's history and culture. It's a city that has endured through the ages, preserving its unique character and charm. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to explore its ancient streets, visit its historic churches, and savor its delicious cuisine.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gravina di Matera and Casa Grotta Narrante. I'm particularly excited to see Gravina di Matera, as I've heard it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And of course we have reservations at La Lopa for lunch and dinner at Ristorante'900 Casa Taccardi. After dinner we will visit AREA 8 bar. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. Though I did forget my adapter for Italian power outlets, so I'll need to purchase one tomorrow.

Matera, you have captured my heart with your timeless beauty and rich history. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I wonder if there will be any festivals in Matera tomorrow?

The Giro d'Italia seems to be very popular, and the route will be varied and challenging. Highlights in 2025 include Matera, Alberobello, Lucca and Bormio.