The Sassi di Matera are an extraordinary example of ancient and sustainable human settlement in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy. These stone dwellings, etched into the limestone cliffs of Matera, represent one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with origins dating back over 7,000 years. What makes the Sassi so fascinating...
READ MOREMatera, a captivating city in Southern Italy, is not only known for its stunning ancient caves and rich history but also for its gastronomic delights. Exploring the local flavors of means immersing oneself in a culinary journey that showcases traditional dishes, famous restaurants, vibrant food markets, and vibrant culinary events. The traditional...
READ MOREMatera – what a city! The first time you lay eyes on the rock city of Matera, you can’t help but be amazed. It’s like something out of a detailed picture book, with sand-coloured house facades stacked side by side and on top of each other. The scene leaves you speechless, reminiscent of a stage set or a movie backdrop. It’s all in shades of tone, t...
READ MOREOnce branded a source of “national shame”, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture, the city of Matera boasts a past with as many twists and turns as the honeycomb of cave dwellings that make up its ancient town, the Sassi. Situated on the border between Puglia and Basilicata, a lesser-known region in Italy’s deep south, M...
READ MOREPuglia has everything. Amazing food, stunning olive fields, inspiring cities, and one of our favorite things: a dreamy coast. I’ve spent long summers exploring Puglia’s quaint towns and villages, sleeping in its traditional masserie, and working with local artisans to design quality linens and woven bags to bring the slow lifestyle into your home a...
READ MORETucked inside the arch of Italy’s boot, Matera could have easily disappeared into the annals of history — the community was inhabited some 10,000 years before falling into disrepair, and was completely deserted in the 1970s. But, through the sheer force and determination of locals, plus several strategic investments, the long-standing town managed...
READ MOREWhich are the best things to do in Matera? At first glance, the Lucanian capital seems like something straight out of a dream, a timid vision in a fairy-tale world. Yet beyond the splendor of the glimpse and the wonder of its surroundings, Matera offers an incredible wealth of things to do that will allow you to delve into its culture and everyday...
READ MOREThe Translation Journey of Murder in Matera. March 15th, 5:30pm-6:45pm EST. Virtual Event; Registration Required. Members: $10. Nonmembers: $15. Trip To Puglia Participants: Complimentary. Register Here! Join us for a virtual event and discover how the NOIAW network helped one Italian-American journalist turn her nonfiction account of a true life...
READ MOREResidents of southern Italy’s picturesque and ancient “city of stone” have been gripped by another rocky phenomenon after a meteorite crash-landed on the balcony of a home in Matera’s suburbs. The space object, which had been travelling at about 200mph, was spotted in the skies above the Puglia and Basilicata regions on 14 February, becoming known...
READ MORERome is the first destination that comes to mind when we think of Italy because it is one of the most famous cities in the world, along with Paris and London. Hidden gems are the lesser-known routes in Italy, including the secret small towns, beautiful villages, and islands that are yet to be discovered by tourists that explore the country every ye...
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