Church, mosque or temple · UNESCO
Matera Cathedral
Matera, Italy
A Romanesque cathedral on the highest point of the old town.
Historic site · Italy · Basilicata
Sassi di Matera
The ancient cave districts carved into the ravine.
UNESCO World Heritage Free to enter about 3 h
For storytellers
Why Sassi di Matera matters
Walk through stepped lanes and caves-turned-houses. Churches carved into the rock hold faded frescoes, and viewpoints look over the ravine. It's best explored on foot, with sturdy shoes. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time, because every turn reveals another terrace, stair or rock church.
Talking points
- Dwellings are cut into the rock.
- Rock churches have old frescoes.
- Magnificent at dawn and night.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.