The Timeless Charm of Matera

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DEHR-chee]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-VOH-reh/PRAY-goh]
• Thank youGrazie
  [GRAH-tsyeh]
• Excuse me/SorryScusa/Mi dispiace
  [SKOO-zah/MEE dees-PYAH-cheh]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stah-ee]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. eh too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAHR-lee een-GLAY-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-PEES-koh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [voh-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel MEH-noo, pehr fah-VOH-reh]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [voh-RAY pah-GAH-reh, pehr fah-VOH-reh]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
• Go away!Vattene!
  [vaht-TEH-neh]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-LEE-tsyah]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doh-TOH-reh]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-no pehr-soh]
• I'm illSto male
  [stoh MAH-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [voh-RAY kohm-PRAR-eh]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh SOH-loh gwar-DAHN-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAHN-toh KOHS-tah]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh TROH-poh KAH-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [PWEE ahb-bah-SAH-reh eel PREH-tsoh]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh OH-rah eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [SOH-no leh dyeh-chee eh MEHT-zah]
• MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REE-joh]
• EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [OH-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
• 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
• 2Due
  [DWEH]
• 3Tre
  [TREH]
• 4Quattro
  [KWAT-troh]
• 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
• 6Sei
  [SAY]
• 7Sette
  [SEHT-teh]
• 8Otto
  [OH-toh]
• 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [DYEH-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-VEH]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-DEER-eetzoh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [PWEE mohs-TRAHR-mee SOOL-lah MAHP-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAHN-doh PAHS-sah eel PROHS-see-moh OW-toh-boo]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-LYEHT-toh pehr]

Matera's history dates back to the Paleolithic era, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Early humans settled in the natural caves of the Murgia plateau, taking advantage of the area's abundant water sources and fertile land.

The Sassi di Matera, a complex of cave dwellings carved into limestone, are the city's most iconic feature. These dwellings have been inhabited since prehistoric times and were continuously used through the Neolithic period, the Bronze Age, and into the modern era. The Sassi are divided into two districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.

Matera fell under Roman rule in the 3rd century BC. The Romans introduced new architectural styles and infrastructure, including roads and aqueducts. Later, during the Byzantine period, Matera became a refuge for monks who established rock-hewn churches adorned with frescoes that are still visible today.

In the 7th century, the Lombards conquered Matera, integrating it into the Duchy of Benevento. The city later came under Norman control in the 11th century. The Normans fortified Matera, building the Castello Tramontano, which stands as a testament to their influence.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Matera experienced periods of prosperity and decline. The city was part of the Kingdom of Naples and later the Kingdom of Two Sicilies. Matera's economy was primarily based on agriculture and pastoralism, with its unique cave dwellings continuing to serve as homes and workshops.

In the early 20th century, Matera's Sassi were declared a national disgrace due to the extreme poverty and unsanitary conditions. The Italian government forcibly relocated the residents to modern housing. The Sassi were abandoned, falling into disrepair until they were rediscovered and restored in the latter part of the century.

In 1993, the Sassi di Matera were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their historical and cultural significance. This designation spurred efforts to restore and preserve the ancient cave dwellings, transforming Matera into a vibrant cultural tourist destination.

In 2019, Matera was named the European Capital of Culture. This prestigious title brought international attention to the city, highlighting its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant contemporary culture. The event featured numerous cultural activities, exhibitions, and performances, solidifying Matera's status as a cultural hub.

Matera is located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. The nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), approximately 65 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, rental car, or taxi to reach Matera. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bari Centrale to Matera Centrale, which offers scenic views of the Italian countryside.

Matera is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local buses and taxis are readily available. The city also has a bike-sharing program for those who prefer cycling. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas, but be aware that parking in the historic center can be challenging.

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Matera, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before exploring remote areas.

Matera is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Matera does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Matera. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly; avoid overly casual attire when dining out or visiting churches. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; always cover your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Matera like a local, wander through the Sassi districts, where you can explore ancient cave dwellings and churches. Visit local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional Italian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine in one of the cave restaurants for a unique culinary experience. Additionally, try to attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture.