Matera

About

While ‘new’, above-ground city was founded in the 3rd century BC by the Romans, the troglodyte city carved into the rocky ravine has been inhabited for the past 7000 years or so. In 1945, the cave dwellings earned international recognition when author Carlo Levi described the children, naked or in rags, ravaged by disease, concluding “I have never seen in all my life such a picture of poverty.” The Italian Prime Minister even visited in 1950, calling the living conditions “a national disgrace”. The inhabitants were forcibly relocated to the ‘new’ town, and for many, it was their first time seeing running water. Today, thanks to aid from the Italian government, UNESCO, and Hollywood, the caves have been refurbished, and are now home to thriving pubs, hotels, and airbnb listings. Above ground, the city’s home to several medieval monuments, such as the 13th century cathedral, and 16th century castle.