old town

There is really not much more to add here.It is a truly wonderful place to visit and experience and if you happen to be nearby certainly not to be missed!Walking is not easy so be prepared for steep climbs with many steps. The buildings have been lovingly restored over the past couple of decades having been let go to near ruin. What a shame this would have been. However a whole new lease of life hjas been breathed into this historic and derservedly World Heritage site. Stunning.You can of course drop into one of the many bars, cafes or restaurants to take the weight off your feet and your neyes from all the great things to see.

This was great trully beautiful.The views the rabbit warren of streets and houses you have to be there.They were filming Ben Hur while we were there another nice touch.

The two sassi areas, Barisano and Caveoso are so beautiful that it is hard to believe that at one time this place was abandoned. But no more, today the world is beating a path to its doors. It is a must see for all travelers.

This is a jewel of not only southern Italy but of all Europe. Matera is not a very well known name but this city really deserves more recognition because everything is beautiful here and not spoiled by hordes of tourists. On weekends lots of locals are in the streets, living a normal life. Laundry hangs on balconies or in the street. All is very authentic.

It seems that the city authorities are well aware of the value of tourism and it is evident that they invest so much to preserve and develop the Old City. The city center is beautiful, clean and tidy, and it's very pleasant to walk along the streets and to enjoy the well-preserved ancient structures, as the main attraction is, of course, the Sassi.

i had very good time ,nice view, good food very friedly persones,intrresting walking everything very good

I can't even try to put my words down to explain what to expect. This is like Venice should be. Fewer rip off artists and a genuine feeling of caring from the locals. We did the passagiatta every night. And tried to speak as little English as we could. during the day we explored the sassi, the town is truly remarkable. A must see. There are Greek ruins near here and rock churches worth seeing. Worth visiting. Do a little research beforehand. Because the town is small and can be done in two days.

If you want to exercise, and love taking pictures I recommend coming here. I had a great time just walking around and taking panaromic pictures.

Matera comes to life every night when it seems every local comes out to stroll the ancient streets with their family. A very "italian" atmosphere, not many foreigners, and lots of vibrant socializing. Liked everything and will return for the Festival Saint Bruna in 2016. That will be a hoot!!

Matera's old town, or simply as they call it "I Sassi", are one of the attractions of incalculable value, in fact this site takes place on the prestigious list of world heritage UNESCO and one of 50 sites of which Italy has top membership. The old town is a part of the city located close to the "Sassi", beautiful churches and breathtaking panoramic views really. I think of all the places I've seen in the world this is absolutely unusual and unique and one of the most beautiful, to visit at least once in lifetime.

The old city of Matera was one of the highlights of our visit to Apulia! It is a stage set waiting to be explored. This old city was deserted in 1960-70 when it was only inhabited by the poor. In a total state of disrepair, it is being restored to its original centuries old splendor. Every twist and turn leaves you only wanting to see more! Climbing up and down the cobblestone steps and wandering the streets is a delight to the eyes. What a spectacular place!It may be noted the "The Passion of the Christ" was filmed there. At the time we were there, they will also making a film on location. Worth the trip ...a MUST SEE!1

We started up top at the castle, pretty old, the cathedrals, felt old to me and the reservoir, yep - that's old. Then we ducked under a church and down to old town. Now that's OLD, and you can see even older across the valley. It's amazing and beautiful, I wish I could live here. I could have spent all day here at the very least.

Simply walking through the Old town is an experience in itself. Loads of Sassi, churches, amazing water cisterns and unique views of the valley

Worth the climbing and walking. Every corner has a surprise. Must visit the MUSMA museum and sample the food.

We flew into Bari, hired a car and made Matera our base for 6 days staying at Ai Terrazzini, Stayed at Ai Terrazzine (recommend) it is difficult to find at first it is on the junction of Via D'Addozio and Via Florentini. see photo for entrance.We explored mush of the east & west of the region and found Matera quite wonderful, cheaper than the north and touristy places, good local food at reasonable prices and a very pleasant and helpful local population. This is one of the nicest places in southern Italy.Our Hostess at Ai Terrazzini, Valentina was extremely nice, breakfast buffet excellent and as you would expect coffee delicious. Rooms have good soft water, powerful showers and bidets for those of us who like them, and fresh towels every day. One tip for use in the bedroom take a pair of flipflops as the floors are brickwork end on. We will return.