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Matera

Situated in a deep ravine in Basilicata, Matera is known internationally for its 'Sassi' - ancient troglodyte caves cut into the limestone rock face, and used as dwellings and churches since the Palaeolithic era. Historically, this position made the town easy to defend but much more difficult to supply with water. Much of the town began to develop outside the canyon, and the Sassi was inhabited but largely ignored for centuries. By the early 20th century, many of the Sassi's inhabitants were living in appalling conditions, and the area was rife with disease.

Fortunately, the town cleaned this up, and set to restoring the ancient area. The project was a great success, and resulted in the town being declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Over the last decade many of the Sassi have been adapted into fantastic houses, hotels and restaurants - making this truly unique area even more fascinating to discover. Another major attraction in the town is the collection of cave churches, carved out by monks and often decorated with Byzantine murals painted directly onto the rocks.

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3 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Matera

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Save £100pp
8 days from
£1,199
per person
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  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsLondon Stansted, London Gatwick, MAN Manchester, London Heathrow / London Stansted, London Gatwick, MAN Manchester, BDS Brindisi
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportFlight, Coach
Map and accommodation
Save £100pp
11 days from
£2,299
per person
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  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International, London Gatwick / London Gatwick, St Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportFlight, Rail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Our customers love our Matera tours
Puglia All Inclusive - Undiscovered Southern Italy
13/Nov
RUSHMER
4 stars
“Enjoyable and varied trip but meal experiences a bit like "school dinners". Location not good for meaningful use of "free time".
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