I was born in the coastal southern Italian town of Maratea, in the Basilicata region, and although I grew up elsewhere more inland yet close enough, naturally I got to come here often with my family and friends throughout the years, especially in summertime. Because of the way my region is shaped we actually have a relatively quick access to the beaches of the two neighbouring regions as well but, called me biased, Maratea always hits differently.
I do get why sandy beaches are my husband’s and many others’ preferred choice of seaside, but I also find the mediterranean rocky coastline equally charming if not even more visually fascinating and kind of fun too, as you can (mindfully, please) dive off cliffs or swim through caves or have an exhilarating moment when a wave gets caught, together with you, in between rocks!
Now, in Basilicata there’s also a city called Matera, which many people understandably mix up with Maratea because of the assonance, but that instead is pretty unique in its kind: its old hilltop town, known as ‘Sassi di Matera’ and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is thought to be one of the most ancient troglodyte settlement in the world. These ‘Sassi’, meaning in fact ‘stones’, are literally built on and carved out of limestone, which gives the town its washed-out, monochromatic rustic look as it emerges from the impressive canyons, making you feel like you’re standing in a place beyond time and space (No wonder Mel Gibson chose to shoot here ‘The Passion’, but you can see Matera’s beauty also in James Bond’s latest “No time to die”.) Families actually lived in these caves up until the 50s (yep, you read that right) when they finally were re-homed in more modern living conditions, while the Sassi started attracting tourism and some of those caves got transformed into restaurants, museums and hotels.
One thing to note if you’re planning to visit: as there’s plenty of steps exploring on foot the old town, summer might not be the most ideal time of the year unless you enjoy a sweaty workout since it’s scorching hot - I’d opt for beginning of fall or springtime!
