Quick Facts
- Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as 'sassi', which date back to the Paleolithic period, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
- In 1993, Matera was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique rock-cut architecture and historic significance.
- The city served as a filming location for several major films, including Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of the Christ' in 2004, showcasing its dramatic landscapes and ancient structures.
- Matera was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, a title that brought renewed attention to its rich history and cultural heritage.
- The Sassi di Matera consists of two districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, with over 1,000 cave dwellings, churches, and other structures carved from limestone.
Travel Details
- Country
- Italy
- Population
- Varies
- Daily Budget
- $80-150
- Best Time to Visit
- Apr–Oct
- Current Weather
- ☁️16°C/61°FPartly Cloudy
- Currency
- € EUR
- Coordinates
- 40.6667, 16.6000
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