A Subterranean Settlement
On the southern cliff face of the deep ravine where Matera was founded, the rocky uninhabited surfaces dotted with small caves can be seen. On the east face of the ravine also,there are ancient caves, and it is here that inhabitants began to make use of these natural features gradually building outwards, clinging to the rocks to create shelter as well as digging even deeper into the cliffs to hollow out alcoves and rooms where homes took root. On the west wall of the ravine as the river takes a turn far below, are further cave houses.., many still deserted, bur some now being reclaimed and re-inhabited.
The recent history of the cave dwellers of Matera is a surprising story which indicates the mistakes which can be made by well meaning individuals and agencies. The cave dwellers of Matera were discovered in the fifties by media who ran shock stories of disapproval at the primitive nature of the living conditions and the perceived poverty of those living there. The city fathers were shamed into taking action and local inhabitants were compelled to re-house in dwellings in the more modern part of Matera. But repetitive modern council housing is not to everyone's taste. Over time the locals have returned in ones and twos to their old dwellings and now the Sassi are alive once more.
In fact the uniqueness of the Sassi has made this not just a tolerated area. Now this has become the desirable quarter of Matera where tourists prefer to go to experience a street-scape and a lifestyle truly different. Since 1993 the cave homes of Matera have been reinvented under the protection of Unesco. It is believed that these are the first settlements of Italy, and the history of the region dates back to the Paleolithic period. This is in fact a troglodyte settlement - a settlement of cave dwellers. Moore recently - in the third century BC, - the area became a Roman settlement known as Mathlea, Known also as La Cita Sotteranea, - the subterranean city - and as the Sassi of Matera, the town has become famed throughout Italy for its surreal landscape and sense of living history.
With churches, restaurants and hotel rooms carved into the rocks, Matera offers something exceptional in its make-up. Chic hotels where rooms are half burred into the honeycombed hillside provide a nest-like atmosphere, - a strange combination of raw nature and luxury living.
Also Pip McCurdy's New Zealand posts:
On Blogspot, Pip McCurdy on the Road
Website: http://www.unusualstays.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Stay-Somewhere-Strange-273777766054597/
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