Sassi di Matera – Millenary history carved in stone. The Sassi di Matera are a unique rock settlement in the world, set in the limestone rock of the Gravina di Matera. Two historic districts – Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano – tell the story of thousands of years of uninterrupted life: from troglodyte dwellings of prehistoric times to cave houses, up to frescoed rock churches and modern cultural structures. An extraordinary heritage, a symbol of resilience, beauty and identity. 🏛️ An open-air museum: Walking in the Sassi is like crossing the centuries: alleys carved into the rock, irregular stairs, overlapping houses, underground cisterns and churches hidden among the stones. Every corner is a piece of living history. 👉 Tip: Join a guided tour to discover the invisible history behind each cave, portal, and cave fresco. ⛪ Rock churches and spirituality: The Sassi houses over 150 rock churches, many of which are decorated with Byzantine frescoes. Among the most evocative: Santa Maria de Idris, carved into the rock and overlooking the Gravina, and San Pietro Barisano, with its crypts and underground tombs. 👉 Tip: Visit the churches in the morning to better appreciate the play of light and the colors of the ancient frescoes. 🎭 Culture and rebirth: From a symbol of poor Italy, Matera has become the capital of culture and responsible tourism. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and today hosts museums, festivals, film festivals and artistic residencies among the rocks. 👉 Tip: Don't miss events such as the Matera Film Festival or the exhibitions in the evocative restored hypogea. 📷 Timeless views: The Sassi offer breathtaking views in every direction: panoramic terraces, alleys illuminated by lanterns, flowered balconies among the stones. At night, the village lights up with magic and looks like a living nativity scene. 👉 Tip: Climb to the Murgia Timone viewpoint at sunset: the view of the ancient city is among the most iconic in Italy. 🍽️ Flavors of the Lucanian tradition: In Matera you can enjoy simple and tasty dishes: IGP bread cooked in a wood-fired oven, cavatelli with bran, sheep's milk cheeses, pezzente sausage and Vulture wines. All served in restaurants nestled in caves. 👉 Tip: Book a dinner at an "inn in the Sassi" for an immersive and intimate dining experience. 🛌 Sleeping among the stones: Boutique hotels, B&Bs and restored cave-houses welcome visitors with charm and authenticity. Sleeping in the Sassi means living history, surrounded by silence and living stone. 👉 Tip: Choose a site with a rooftop terrace to enjoy the view of the night lights of the ancient city. The Sassi of Matera are not just a place: they are an emotion that can be touched. A journey into the rock, memory and the most authentic beauty of the South.