Sasso Caveoso: Ancient Cave District of Matera

Sasso Caveoso, deriving its name from Montescaglioso (known in the Early Middle Ages as Mons Caveous), is a captivating district within Matera, Italy, celebrated for its ancient cave dwellings. These dwellings are carved into the tufa rock, with excavated material used to create the front of each house, effectively closing the "cave" and forming what are known as "cave-houses". The arrangement of these houses resembles the seating of a theater, descending in tiers towards the gorge. Originally, Sasso Caveoso was secondary to the Civita and Sasso Barisano, only becoming populated after a significant influx of Balkan populations in the 16th century. Today, it stands as a remarkable example of human adaptation to the environment, showcasing a unique urban ecosystem that has evolved over millennia. The district offers visitors a chance to explore cave churches adorned with frescoes, cave houses furnished to reflect traditional life, and artisan shops selling local crafts. Key landmarks within Sasso Caveoso include the Church of Santa Lucia Alle Malve, dating back to the 9th century, the Casa Grotta Vico Solitario, and the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, which dates back to the 13th century. The area also features an ancient man-made water collection system, a network of micro-tunnels and cisterns carved into the rock.