In the little-known region of Basilicata, the city of Matera has two levels: the upper, modern part, with its fancy boutiques and wineshop selling the increasingly popular wine of the region, Aglianico del Vulture; and the lower level in two pits near the edge of town. The city is known throughout Italy for its sassi (cavelike dwellings), many of which had been dug as early as the eighth century by hermit monks fleeing religious persecution.
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Destinations: Calabria & Basilicata · Matera · Accettura
Themes: Arts + Culture · Food + Drink · Hotels + Resorts
Inspired by: Back to Basilicata — by Helene Stapinski, Published Apr. 2006
