9Matera, Italy
Tucked away in southern Italy, Matera is one of Europe’s most extraordinary cities. Known for its ancient cave dwellings called Sassi, the city looks as though it has been carved directly into the rock. Some of these caves have been inhabited for thousands of years, making Matera one of the oldest continuously lived-in settlements in the world.
Once considered one of Italy’s poorest regions, Matera has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today many of the caves have been converted into boutique hotels, atmospheric restaurants, and art galleries. Walking through the narrow stone alleys feels like stepping into another era.
Visitors can explore the fascinating cave churches carved into limestone cliffs, enjoy breathtaking viewpoints across the ravine, and experience the unique atmosphere that earned Matera the title of European Capital of Culture in 2019. Despite its growing reputation, it still feels refreshingly authentic compared to Italy’s more crowded destinations.
