Rione Malve: Matera's Ancient Heart

Rione Malve, nestled in Matera, is a captivating district celebrated for its rock formations and ancient cave dwellings, known as 'sassi'. This UNESCO World Heritage site reveals a history that dates back thousands of years. As you explore the winding streets, you'll see stone houses that have been preserved, each telling a story of adaptation to the landscape. The views from the cliffs overlooking the ravines provide a backdrop that enhances the district's allure. The architecture of Rione Malve features cave-like homes once inhabited by local families. These dwellings showcase an ingenious way of living adapted to the area's natural environment, with cool interiors during the hot summer months. Explore local artisan shops and cafes that dot the streets, offering a taste of the region's culinary delights. The aroma of freshly baked bread and traditional dishes fills the air. Rione Malve serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the broader region of Basilicata, with proximity to natural parks and historical sites. Once, on the first of August, in the neighborhood, the feast of the 'crapiata' was held, which was born as a thanksgiving for the harvest: in the square, each family carried a handful of freshly threshed wheat and one of legumes that were cooked in a large pot and consumed in common, a tradition that strengthened, with music and dance, the life and unity of family groups.