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Written By
Claudio Amendolagine

Claudio Amendolagine

Matera, Basilicata

Serial traveler and Digital & Social Media strategist with over 10 years of experience across Matera 2019, Expo 2020 Dubai, Expo 2025 Osaka, and major international events. Currently working on Matera 2026 Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue. I share (some of) my travels through my blog and social media, with a lifestyle perspective that intertwines culture, art, and food.

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Matera, a millennial city with its eyes on the future

Matera, famous for its ancient districts called "Sassi", a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Already the European Capital of Culture in 2019, it is the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2026. It is a young yet ancient city, Mediterranean yet hilly, green yet rocky. Its contrasts, vibrant cultural scene, and "poor" culinary tradition, rooted in a rich peasant history, make it one of the most fascinating travel destinations of recent years, both in winter and summer.

10 unmissable things to do in Matera

matera italy

1. Sunset over the Sassi

Enjoy the sunset lights over the famous Sassi, from the viewpoint of Piazzetta Pascoli.

2. The Belvedere of Murgia Timone

Admire the city panorama from the Belvedere di Murgia Timone, on the other side, in the Murgia Materana Park.

3. The Palombaro Lungo

Discover the Palombaro Lungo, a huge water collection cistern located under Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

4. Matera bread and peperoni cruschi

Taste Matera bread and peperoni cruschi.

5. Palazzo Lanfranchi

Enter Palazzo Lanfranchi, home to the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art.

6. TAM - Tower Art Museum

Stop by the TAM - Tower Art Museum, a contemporary art museum in the heart of Matera.

7. Guided tour of the Sassi

Participate in a guided tour of the Sassi di Matera, divided into Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.

8. Cave SPA

Indulge in a cave SPA, at the Locanda di San Martino or at Aquatio.

9. Matera Cathedral

Visit the Cattedrale di Matera.

10. Crypt of Original Sin and MUSMA

Be surprised by the Cripta del Peccato Originale and the Museo MUSMA.

Where to eat and drink

matera italy

Materia Prima Bistrot Wines and aperitifs in a beautiful location in Piazza San Giovanni.

Area 8 "Underground" location and cool atmosphere, ideal for an aperitif.

Vicolo Cielo Relaxed vibe, perfect for an aperitif.

La Lopa Typical dinner in a suggestive cave, with an experience that combines restaurant and cinema.

Falco Grillaio Typical cuisine in the central and lively Via Ridola.

Birrificio 79 Craft beers in a delightful small square in Via delle Beccherie, very lively in the evening.

Dimora Ulmo Contemporary proposal in an elegant location.

Stano Trattoria Typical and historic restaurant in Matera.

Abbondanza Lucana Traditional cuisine with a more gourmet touch.

Vitantonio Lombardo Refined restaurant, awarded a Michelin star.

Where to stay

Sassi di Matera, in the historic center.

Things to know before you go

By plane: Bari Airport.

By train: FS, Bari station or Ferrandina Scalo. FAL Bari-Matera railways.

By bus: Flixbus or Itabus.

matera at night italy