Palombaro lungo, Matera Travel Guide

Venture beneath Matera's bustling Piazza Vittorio Veneto and discover the Palombaro Lungo, an extraordinary subterranean cistern that speaks volumes about the city's ingenuity in water management. Carved from the limestone rock, this immense reservoir represents a crucial chapter in Matera's history, particularly its struggle with water scarcity.Originally constructed in the 16th century, the Palombaro Lungo underwent significant expansion in the 19th century to meet the growing demands of Matera's population. Its walls are lined with 'cocciopesto,' a waterproof plaster made from terracotta, preventing water seepage. The cistern collected both rainwater and spring water, serving as a vital resource during the dry summer months.Decommissioned in the 1930s with the arrival of the Apulian Aqueduct, the Palombaro Lungo was rediscovered in 1991 during the piazza's construction. Today, it's open to the public, allowing visitors to traverse its length on suspended walkways, marveling at the scale and the echoing silence of this underground marvel. The sheer size of the Palombaro Lungo, approximately 50 meters long and 15 meters high, is awe-inspiring, offering a unique glimpse into Matera's past.