Exploring the Timeless Charm of Matera, Italy

Matera's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of diving deeper into the heart of Matera, a city that continues to surprise and enchant me at every turn. Jürgen and I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to explore more of what this ancient city has to offer. From delving into art and history to savoring the local cuisine, Matera has truly captured my heart.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Regiacorte - L’eccellenza del Territorio. Nestled near Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, the hotel's restaurant offered a delightful start to the day. The selection was wonderful, featuring local cheeses, fresh fruit, and pastries that were simply divine. Fuelled up, we were ready to immerse ourselves in the cultural riches of Matera.


Discover Regiacorte in Matera: where authentic Italian flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a charming setting.

Our first stop was Palazzo Lanfranchi, a magnificent Baroque building that houses the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata. As a lover of history and art, I was eager to explore its collections. The building itself is a work of art, with its elegant architecture and stunning views of the Sassi. Inside, we wandered through the various sections, admiring sacred art, historical artifacts, and contemporary masterpieces. I was particularly moved by Carlo Levi's large canvas 'Lucania '61', a powerful depiction of the region's history and culture. Jürgen, with his architect's eye, was fascinated by the building's structure and design, pointing out the intricate details and the way the light played within the spaces.


Explore Palazzo Lanfranchi: An Art Museum in Matera Showcasing Rich Cultural Heritage and Stunning Views.

The beauty of Matera lies not just in its stones, but in the stories they whisper, the art they inspire, and the flavors they hold.

Next, we ventured to MUSMA - Museo della Scultura Contemporanea, a unique museum set within Matera's cave dwellings. This was an experience unlike any other. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of contemporary sculptures, ceramics, and other works of art, all displayed within the ancient caves. The juxtaposition of modern art against the backdrop of the ancient stone was incredibly powerful. It was amazing to see how the artists had used the natural spaces to enhance their works, creating a dialogue between the past and the present. Jürgen was particularly taken by the way the sculptures interacted with the light and shadows within the caves, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display.


Explore the MUSMA in Matera, a contemporary sculpture museum blending modern art with the historical essence of this ancient city.

After immersing ourselves in the world of sculpture, we made our way to Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, a beautiful church located in the Sasso Caveoso. This church, with its Romanesque-Baroque facade, stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the Matera community. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures, each telling a story of faith and devotion. The church offers a sense of peace and tranquility, a place to reflect on the rich history and culture of Matera. We took a moment to light a candle and offer a prayer for continued blessings on our journey.


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

By this point, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we decided to head to Osteria MateraMì for lunch. This charming osteria, nestled among the Sassi, is known for its traditional Lucanian cuisine. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by homemade pasta dishes that were bursting with flavor. I opted for the orecchiette with cime di rapa, while Jürgen chose the cavatelli with seafood. Each bite was a taste of Matera's culinary heritage, prepared with love and passion. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff made us feel like we were part of their family. It was the perfect place to relax and recharge after a morning of exploring.


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

In the late afternoon, after our delightful lunch, we strolled through the streets of Matera, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the architecture. We wandered through the Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the heart of Matera, observing the locals going about their daily lives. The energy of the city was palpable, a mix of ancient history and modern vibrancy.

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in some pre-dinner drinks at Monkey Drink House. This trendy bar, located near the cathedral, is known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere. We sipped on expertly crafted drinks, enjoying the music and the company of fellow travelers. The bar's decor was quirky and fun, with a touch of Matera's unique charm. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


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

For dinner, we chose Kapunto Matera, a restaurant specializing in fresh pasta. The restaurant offers a simple yet satisfying concept: choose your pasta and your sauce, and they'll create a dish just for you. I opted for the ravioli with butter and sage, while Jürgen chose the orecchiette with black chickpea and octopus cream. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauces were rich and flavorful. It was a delicious and satisfying end to a day of culinary exploration.


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

As we walked back to Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, the Sassi were bathed in the soft glow of the evening lights. Matera at night is a magical place, with its ancient stones illuminated against the dark sky. We reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this extraordinary city.


Experience the unique charm of Matera at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita – a stunning hotel that blends history with modern comforts.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Matera's hidden gems, including the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, Casa Noha, and Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. I am particularly excited to visit the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, which I've heard is a stunning example of rock-cut architecture. And perhaps a stop at BG Arte is in order, to pick up some souvenirs.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to jot down some notes in my travel journal, capturing the essence of the day's experiences. It's important to me to preserve these memories, to relive them and share them with you, my dear readers.

Until tomorrow, arrivederci from Matera!

This trip has been nothing short of amazing, and I'm so glad I get to share it all with Jürgen. His insights as an architect always add another layer to my understanding of the places we visit. And while I did forget my adapter for the Italian power outlets, we managed to find one at a local shop today, crisis averted!

It's funny how travel always throws in little challenges, but it's these moments that often make the best stories. And speaking of stories, Matera has plenty to tell. Good night from this magical city! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Matera continues to surprise and inspire me, and I'm excited to see what other treasures it holds. Stay tuned for more adventures from this ancient city!

As I reflect on our time here, I realize that Matera is more than just a city; it's a living testament to human resilience and ingenuity. The Sassi, with their cave dwellings and rock-cut churches, are a reminder of the past, while the modern art and vibrant culture speak to the present. It's a place where time seems to stand still, where you can wander through ancient streets and discover hidden gems at every turn. And it's a place that I will never forget.

The people of Matera are also a part of its charm. Their warmth and hospitality have made us feel welcome and at home. From the friendly staff at our hotel to the passionate chefs at the local restaurants, everyone we've met has added to our experience. It's clear that they take pride in their city and are eager to share its beauty and history with the world. And I, for one, am grateful for their generosity and kindness.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Matera has captured my heart, and I'm eager to uncover more of its secrets. So, join me tomorrow as we continue our journey through this timeless city. Until then, arrivederci from Matera!

And as the sun sets over the Sassi, casting a golden glow on the ancient stones, I can't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment. Matera is a place that nourishes the soul, a place where you can connect with the past and embrace the present. It's a place that I will always cherish, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to experience its magic. Good night, my friends, and may your dreams be filled with the beauty and wonder of Matera.