News.Life

This Charming Italian Village Offers Homes for Just $1—And the Beach Is Only 40 Minutes Away!

Unknown cities and towns, community, italy, local news, travel in italy

In the picturesque hills of Abruzzo, Italy, a quaint village is attempting to rejuvenate itself by selling homes for just one symbolic Euro, aiming to draw in a fresh influx of settlers and those who yearn for la dolce vita. Could you be the person they're looking for?


 
 The cobblestone pathways of the quaint Italian town of Penne meander through ancient porticos and alongside buildings with faded terra-cotta exteriors. Once thriving, this historic Italian settlement now faces challenges due to its declining populace, causing many residences to bear the marks of time’s passage unattended. In an effort to rejuvenate this threatened cultural legacy, local authorities have embarked on a daring initiative: they sell houses for just one symbolic Euro each, provided that the new proprietors commit to undertaking the necessary restoration efforts. This scheme aims at encouraging people to revitalize the area.
 
 la dolce vita
 
 , away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BvcjP" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BvcjP.jpg"/>


 
 
 Are you thinking about traveling to Italy?
 
 
 Here are some articles to help you plan out your stay
 
 
 :
 
 


 <ul>
 
 <li>
 Near Positano, this beach nestled in a fjord on the Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful in Italy
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 This gorgeous villa in Italy was the setting for a James Bond film (and many others)
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 This small Italian town on the Tyrrhenian Sea with black sandy beaches is well worth a visit
 </li>
 
 </ul>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 A thousand-year-old town with remarkable charm
 </h2>


 
 Penne is more than just a picturesque setting: this village in Abruzzo, 40 minutes from the Adriatic coast, is steeped in history. Founded in pre-Roman times, its ramparts and palaces bear witness to a sumptuous past. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you'll be struck by the baroque ornamentation of the church of Santa Maria in Colleromano, while the medieval towers are a reminder of the city’s strategic value in days gone by.
 


 
 But Penne lives on more than just memories. Nestled in a hilly landscape, it enjoys a warm golden light that drenches the surrounding olive groves and vineyards. The lively terraces offer breathtaking views of the Abruzzo countryside, with its silhouetted cypress trees and centuries-old farmhouses.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 The challenge of one-euro houses
 </h2>


 
 Like so many other Italian villages hit by the rural exodus, Penne is trying to reverse the trend by drawing in new residents. For this purpose, the town council has set up a programme of selling houses for an entirely symbolic price - on condition that the buyers restore their property within a given timeframe. The initiative is towards Italians nostalgic for
 their country's heritage
 , but also foreigners dreaming of a home away from home in the sun.
 


 
 The operation is more than some simple acquisition of property. It aims to revitalise the local economy by stimulating the construction sector and encouraging the establishment of shops and craftsmen. If you’re thinking of taking the plunge, understand that it is much more than an investment: it's a commitment to a collective renaissance.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 A slower way of life to rediscover in Italy
 </h2>


 
 Moving to Penne means embracing a life lived to the beat of the seasons. In the morning, the smell of coffee wafts up from the bars in Piazza Luca da Penne, where regulars catch up on old times under the arcades. The market is full of mature cheeses and local cured meats, while the trattorias are rich with the flavours of Abruzzo, such as truffle pasta and mature pecorino.
 


 
 Nature lovers will be delighted by Lake Penne, a nature reserve where herons and cormorants glide above the shining waters. A few kilometres away, the Gran Sasso massif reveals its steep peaks, a
 playground for hikers
 and lovers of wild landscapes.
 


 
 In this village where every stone has a story to tell, the future is being rebirthed as renovations are taking place. Behind the worn-out shutters and wrought-iron balconies, houses are being turned back into homes, by those who have taken up Penne's invitation to rebuild the past for a better life tomorrow.

This Charming Italian Village Offers Homes for Just $1—And the Beach Is Only 40 Minutes Away!

Unknown cities and towns, community, italy, local news, travel in italy

In the picturesque hills of Abruzzo, Italy, a quaint village is attempting to rejuvenate itself by selling homes for just one symbolic Euro, aiming to draw in a fresh influx of settlers and those wh…

Discover the Charms of the Amalfi Coast Alternative: Less Crowds, More Beauty

Unknown beaches, food and drink, italy, tourist attractions, travel in italy

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHR2S" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHR2S.jpg"/>

 While the Amalfi Coast is famous for its lemons, nearby Cilento boasts an abundance of eggplants, artichokes, and zucchini. The region also produces white figs—soft and delectably sweet. As I recall, these were precisely what a generous local farmer shared with my kids when we paused at a mountaintop town, awaiting mourners from a funeral procession below.


 Though
 the Cilento region
 While perhaps not globally renowned, the health advantages associated with following a Mediterranean diet are indeed well-established. In the 1960s, the notion that elements like olive oil, close-knit family structures, and—let me cautiously add—red wine could contribute positively to one’s wellbeing was examined in an area named Cilento. Here, an American researcher named Ancel Keys resided in a village aptly named Pioppi—in which stands today as a modest museum—and conducted studies focusing on local culinary practices and customs. The inhabitants of this place were particularly recognized for their longevity and relatively relaxed lifestyles.


 It's not solely because of good food that one might choose to leave Amalfi’s coast behind and travel south through Cilento—especially since the journey has been simplified with the new operation of Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport. At first glance, this stretch of shoreline does not resemble the dramatic cliffs characteristic of the Amalfi Coast.
 Amalfi
 .


 Starting from Salerno, you encounter vast expanses grazed by buffaloes, interrupted solely by time-worn pillars emerging from the ruins of Greek temples in Paestum. The true comparison begins only when reaching Palinuro, where the verdant promontories drop sharply into the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHTbu" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHTbu.jpg"/>

 Last summer, EasyJet became the first UK-based carrier to utilize Salerno’s newly opened international airport. The company plans to resume flights from London Gatwick starting in May. When you arrive, consider renting a vehicle in central Salerno since there aren’t numerous choices available at the airport just yet. As soon as you leave the urban area behind, the roads leading away from town bear little resemblance to the congested thoroughfares found along the Amalfi Coast.


 In Cilento, UNESCO recognizes significant Greek and Roman ruins, starting with the archaeological area of Paestum as your initial destination. You'll have the opportunity to delve into these historical sites alongside only a few visitors. These include Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BCE, allowing for tranquil exploration amidst their intricately carved interior and exterior pillars.


 Paestum is an ideal location for exploring Cilento’s culinary heritage and sampling famous buffalo mozzarella. A notable family upholding this region’s organic practices is the Pagano clan, owners of the Savoy Beach Hotel. Their two Michelin-starred establishment, Tre Olivi restaurant within the wellness hotel, serves innovative cuisine influenced by local ingredients, including delicacies like roasted suckling pig paired with figs and indigenous Vatolla onions.


 The Paganos likewise own a winery in Paestum.
 San Salvatore 1988
 , which yields the area’s finest bottles. At La Dispensa di San Salvatore, the Pagano family’s farm shop and eatery, we crafted pasta, shaping small bits of dough into ear-like orecchiette using our thumbs. Nearby is
 Tenuta Vannulo
 , an organic buffalo farm where guests can observe the creation of pristine mozzarella balls.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHTbx" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHTbx.jpg"/>

 If you're seeking breathtaking, 70-meter-tall cliffs for a romantic setting, venture farther south to Palinuro. This area boasts dramatic promontories hiding enchanting hidden coves and caves. When at Spiaggia di Marinella, we questioned our idea of renting a pedal boat until observing several octogenarians joyfully navigating them. Despite the presence of amenities like umbrella rentals and dining options here, these do not overshadow the pristine beauty around—think rugged offshore islands against the skyline and untouched stretches of gleaming, silvery sands flanking both sides.


 One tranquil morning, when the number of yachts was relatively low, we navigated our pedal boat around to the nearby cove called Buon Dormire. The sun had lightened pieces of driftwood scattered along an otherwise unreachable shoreline. Meanwhile, vibrant fish grazed on flower-shaped corals beneath the clear, crystal waters.


 Across from Marinella beach stood a cliff face composed of limestone tinged with peach. We swam for just a moment to reach the pebble-strewn shore at their base, then cautiously ventured into the open sea caves. Above us, a group of chattering swifts darted and dived through the air.


 To explore Cilento for sightseeing, consider driving up to the pastel-colored hilltop villages perched above the coastline or overlooking verdant valleys within the Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHM0E" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHM0E.jpg"/>

 Pisciotti is an exceptionally crumbling instance, featuring vertical cliffs on every side. Make sure to stop by the family-operated Osteria del Borgo for anchovies harvested using the traditional Pisciotta technique, also referred to as
 menaica
 Arranged on toast, topped with butter and grilled zucchini.


 From Castellabate, which overlooks Paestum, cascades down from a 12th-century fortress featuring a plaque inscribed with a statement made by Napoleon's brother-in-law: "Here you do not die." Together with neighboring Agropoli, you can leisurely wander through the winding streets and take a pause at vine-covered bars where you can savor a glass of red wine, secure in the belief that it benefits your health.


 Visitors with extra time could venture inland for about an hour to visit the UNESCO-protected Cartuja Monastery in Padula. However, we decided to stay closer to the coast and explored Santa Maria di Castellabate, one of the area’s loveliest coastal towns. During happy hour, we observed many older residents taking leisurely walks and chatting among the series of beachside eateries, ice cream shops, and curved sandy shores. Freshly caught seafood was enjoyed as the sun dipped below the horizon at El Gatto, where fishing nets adorned the walls and meals were savored under arched stonework terraces.


 Towering behind high walls, close by, lies the 17th-century Palazzo Belmonte, which was formerly an administrative hub for local farmers. A massive fig tree spreads over its stony courtyard.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHM0K" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHM0K.jpg"/>

 In these times, it has transformed into a rustic-chic hotel featuring luxurious suites, a swimming pool, and direct access to the beach, managed by an Englishwoman who many years ago wed an Italian prince. The princess continues to stroll around the premises, greeting familiar faces as she tends to the vibrant pink bougainvillea. This serves as another instance in Cilento where a lifetime was spent remarkably well.

<h2 class="u-heading-size-medium u-heading-style-normal">
 Essentials
</h2>

 EasyJet
 Flights from London Gatwick to Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport start at £57 for a round trip, and British Airways plans to launch this route in May.
 The Savoy Beach Hotel located in Paestum
 (0039 0828 720100) offers rooms for £126 per night, inclusive of breakfast; whereas
 Palazzo Belmonte
 The accommodation in Santa Maria di Castellabate (0039 0974 960211) offers double rooms for £136 per night, with prices based on bed and breakfast only.


 
 Subscribe to the Front Page newsletter at no cost: Your daily roadmap of key events provided by The Telegraph, delivered directly to your mailbox every single day of the week.

Discover the Charms of the Amalfi Coast Alternative: Less Crowds, More Beauty

Unknown beaches, food and drink, italy, tourist attractions, travel in italy

While the Amalfi Coast is famous for its lemons, nearby Cilento boasts an abundance of eggplants, artichokes, and zucchini. The region also produces white figs—soft and delectably sweet. As I recall…

Explore Sicily in Style: The Perfect 10-Day Road Trip

Unknown travel, travel advice, travel destinations, travel in italy, travel recommendations

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, serves as an ideal getaway for those who love road trips. With its diverse scenery, stunning shores, ancient municipalities, and charming hamlets, this region offers a journey through history and traditions. Below lies the plan for the ultimate driving tour across Sicily.


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 1-2: Palermo
 </h2>


 
 The journey starts, as it should, in Palermo, the dynamic heart of Sicily, where you can admire Baroque buildings, bustling food markets, and stunning historical sites. Be sure to wander down its winding lanes and explore the magnificent attractions.
 Palazzo dei Normanni
 and its Palatine Chapel, or the famous Palermo Cathedral, a unique blend of Norman, Gothic and Arabic styles. Moreover, don’t miss a visit to the street food markets such as Ballarò, where you will try typical Sicilian street food, including
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/taste/gastronomy/arancini-culinary-specialty-sicily/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 the famous
 arancini
 </a>
 (stuffed rice balls) and
 cannolo
 .
 


 
 Before departing from Palermo, we strongly suggest making time to visit the adjacent town of Monreale. The cathedral here, adorned with stunning gold mosaics and featuring a tranquil cloister, stands as a remarkable example of Norman architecture in Sicily.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1wL4s7" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1wL4s7.jpg"/>


 
 
 Interested in discovering Sicily? These articles can assist you with planning your visit:
 
 


 <ul>
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/taste/gastronomy/sicily-what-to-eat-best-dishes/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 What should you try eating in Sicily? Here are some of the top Sicilian cuisine options.
 </a>
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/sicily-hotels-booking/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 Sicily: 4 accommodations to reserve for an escape on the island
 </a>
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/sicily-best-time-of-the-year-italy/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 When is the ideal season to travel to Sicily?
 </a>
 </li>
 
 </ul>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 3: Cefalù
 </h2>


 
 Approximately an hour’s drive from Palermo, you'll find the idyllic village of Cefalù nestled between the Tyrrhenian Sea and a striking rocky outcrop. This quaint town is renowned for its delightful historic center with winding lanes and particularly for its awe-inspiring Norman cathedral, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
 


 
 Following your stroll through the winding cobblestone lanes and after sipping a cup of coffee in the central plaza, unwind at one of Cefalù’s picturesque sand beaches. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, scaling up to the summit of the Rocca offers breathtaking vistas of both the town and the ocean below.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1xa9WS" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1xa9WS.jpg"/>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 4-5: Taormina
 </h2>


 
 Next, proceed eastward to one of
 <a href="https://guide.en-vols.com/en/adresse/taormina-the-beautiful/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 The most favored spots in Sicily include Taormina.
 </a>
 Situated atop a hill, this town provides stunning vistas of the Ionian Sea and, when visibility is good, the impressive Mount Etna, Europe's renowned active volcano. Renowned for its Greco-Roman amphitheater, Taormina boasts both significant historical value and panoramic views of the mountain and ocean.
 


 
 Wander through the town's public gardens, then make your way down to the beaches.
 Baia di Mazzarò
 Or use the cable car to explore.
 Isola Bella
 , a tiny safeguarded island connected to the shore by a slender sandy isthmus.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1xa9WW" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1xa9WW.jpg"/>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 6: Mount Etna
 </h2>


 
 No journey to Sicily would be finished properly without
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/sicile-itinerances-sur-les-pentes-de-letna/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 exploring Mount Etna
 </a>
 One of the planet’s most frequently erupting volcanoes awaits your exploration. Start from Taormina and follow the path towards Etna Park. Within this park, you have two options: either hike along scenic paths leading up to the craters or opt for an adrenaline-pumping guided tour all the way to the peak. Atop the mountain, marvel at spectacular vistas featuring moon-like terrains, historic lava fields, and sweeping panoramas of the Sicilian coastlines.
 


 
 As you make your descent, take a detour to visit one of the numerous wineries located on Mount Etna’s hillsides, offering an opportunity to sample distinctive wines cultivated in the region’s nutrient-abundant volcanic earth.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1xa0wI" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1xa0wI.jpg"/>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 7-8: Exploring Syracuse and the Isle of Ortigia
 </h2>


 
 Proceed further south into Syracuse, a destination brimming with historical significance within Sicily. This city was established by ancient Greeks and boasts an abundance of archaeological riches. Be sure not to miss the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, featuring both a Greek theater and vestiges from Roman times.
 


 
 Nonetheless, it is the island of Ortigia, which serves as the historical heart of Syracuse, that draws the majority of tourists. This small treasure is teeming with vibrant piazzas, cozy cafes, quaint cobblestone streets, and landmarks like the Syracuse Cathedral, constructed upon an ancient Greek temple. Ortigia also offers a delightful experience for those who wish to meander along its harborside promenades and savor an ice cream as the sunset paints the sky above the ocean.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 9: The Valley of the Temples located in Agrigento
 </h2>


 
 When heading west, make sure to visit the impressive Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which stands out as one of the most remarkable archaeological sites globally, featuring exceptionally well-maintained Greek temples. Notable among them is the Temple of Concord, a masterpiece of early architectural excellence.
 


 
 The valley is enchanting, particularly during sundown when the temples light up, casting a nearly Otherworldly ambiance.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Day 10: Scalata ai Turchi
 </h2>


 
 Finally, as you wrap up your road trip, make sure to visit the renowned Scala dei Turchi, situated close to Agrigento. This pristine white limestone formation, eroded by the waves into stepped terraces, descends gracefully towards the sea, offering a breathtaking view.
 


 
 At this spot, you have the option to take a dip in the clear blue waters or relax on the pristine white rocks while soaking in the scenery.

Explore Sicily in Style: The Perfect 10-Day Road Trip

Unknown travel, travel advice, travel destinations, travel in italy, travel recommendations

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, serves as an ideal getaway for those who love road trips. With its diverse scenery, stunning shores, ancient municipalities, and charming hamlets…

Discovering Europe's Ancient Rock-Carved City: Oldest in Italy, One of the World’s Earliest

Unknown ancient rome, culture, italy, tourist attractions, travel in italy

Etched right into the stone, the town of Matera stands as one of Italy’s most recognizable attractions. This historic settlement features an extraordinary architectural landscape that showcases some of the region’s finest cultural treasures. Laden with historical significance and age-old customs, it reflects the remnants left behind by various civilizations throughout its long existence.


 
 The "City of the Sassi,"
 <a href="https://www.materawelcome.it/it/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">
 Matera
 </a>
 Matera stands as the longest continuously inhabited town in Italy. Nestled in the center of the Basilicata area within southern Italy, this city attracts visitors with its remarkable rock-cut architecture and significant influence on Italian culture at large. Among its earliest relics are those from the Stone Age, which position it among the oldest known human settlements globally.
 


 
 
 Are you interested in visiting Italy? Here are
 
 
 some
 
 
 pieces to assist you with your planning
 
 
 out your trip
 
 
 :
 
 


 <ul>
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/aeolian-islands-italy/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 The Aeolian Islands: 7 hidden gems offshore Sicily worthy of exploration
 </a>
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/styles-en/architecture-en/italy-venice-architecture-masterpiece/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 One of Italy's most stunning architectural wonders and a emblem of the Italian Renaissance.
 </a>
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/dolomites-most-beautiful-road/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 This route in the Dolomites will lead you through stunning vistas.
 </a>
 </li>
 
 
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/italy-most-beautiful-beaches-summer/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 The 15 Most Stunning Beaches in Italy for This Summer's Enjoyment
 </a>
 </li>
 
 </ul>


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 The
 
 heart
 
 of humanity
 </h2>


 
 The presence of ancient structures within the city demonstrates that Matera has been inhabited by humans for nearly 12,000 years. Although officially established as Matheola by a Roman official in 251 BC, the town has provided refuge to various groups throughout history up until the 15th century.
 
 th
 
 Throughout the centuries, various groups such as the Lombards, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans inhabited the city. Each group introduced their distinct cultures and lifestyles, leaving behind enduring impacts that outlasted themselves.
 


 
 In 1514, Matera began playing a significant part in history. Owing to its distance from principal Italian urban centers, the nobility abandoned the area, leaving the residents to fend for themselves amidst severe economic hardship. Consequently, they were compelled to organize collectively to survive this challenging era. Thus, the community relied on their age-old traditions and systems.
 <a href="https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/petra-new-wonder-jordan-desert/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 troglodyte
 </a>
 The residences underwent redevelopment, and new caves called
 Sassi
 were constructed directly on the mountainside. For over four hundred years, the
 Sassi
 Matera emerged as the emblem of a disadvantaged region, juxtaposed against a thriving Italy.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 
 A mix of
 
 modernity and ancient charm
 </h2>


 
 Introduced in 1950 by the Italian government, the Matera urban renewal initiative has revitalized the city. The primary aim was to rejuvenate the area while maintaining its distinctive charm and beauty. Upon arriving in Matera, one immediately notices its distinct ambiance. Winding pedestrian-only lanes showcase an array of architectural styles among the homes. Standing atop the ramparts offers stunning vistas of Italy’s rural landscape—a harmonious blend of expansive verdant fields and dramatic mountain ranges.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1pjtNI" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1pjtNI.jpg"/>


 
 Matera is increasingly engaging with the global community through its profound historical heritage. In 1993, the city’s
 Sassi
 and rock churches were designated as
 <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/670/" rel="noreferrer noopener">
 UNESCO
 </a>
 The location has been named a World Heritage Site, and in 2019, this historic city will receive the title of "European Capital of Culture," solidifying its position on the global scene. The appeal for tourists visiting Matera stems from its charmingly rustic ambiance and uniquely preserved cultural heritage.
 


 <h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 Locations to visit in Matera
 </h2>


 <h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 The
 Sassi
 of Matera
 </h3>


 
 The town's primary attraction, the
 Sassi
 In Matera, you'll find structures that are dug into the mountainside, featuring bright white facades and windows. The interiors are equally innovative, with furnishings sculpted directly from the stone and intricate carvings etched onto the walls. Numerous troglodytic homes can be explored for mere pennies. While some remain intact in their authentic condition, others have undergone complete renovations to serve as temporary residences or tiny artisan workshops.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1pjtNU" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1pjtNU.jpg"/>


 <h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 The Palombaro Lungo, also known as the cistern of Matera.
 </h3>


 
 Perched atop a limestone hill distant from any flowing stream, Matera has utilized an extensive subterranean system of channels connected to a massive reservoir for collecting rainfall over many years... a site you can explore. Venture deep beneath the city through a network of walkways and passages to uncover the process of treating and redistributing the gathered water to its residents.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1pjw9u" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1pjw9u.jpg"/>


 <h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 The Luigi Guerricchio belvedere
 </h3>


 
 Following your exploration of the subterranean tunnels, it's time to make your way up to the rooftops of Matera. Perched atop this vast balcony, you'll have a nearly panoramic perspective of the city center and its numerous limestone dwellings. It serves as an ideal spot to unwind during your adventure and to snap some memorable photographs.
 


 <h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 The
 Duomo Cathedral of Matera
 </h3>


 
 Named
 Madonna della Bruna e di Sant'Eustachio
 This enormous structure ranks among the most stunning in the area. Situated at the pinnacle of the city, the Romanesque cathedral is distinguished by its elaborate decorations and ceilings featuring a mix of carvings and artwork. Towards the rear, visitors can admire a large stone cot alongside intricate mural art, remnants from the site’s ancient medieval design.
 


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1pjyAy" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1pjyAy.jpg"/>


 
 
 The Matera Cathedral
 
 
 
 Duomo Square, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
 
 
 +39 0835 332908
 


 <h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 The canyon
 </h3>


 
 Beneath the town lies a significant fissure in the ground, making an excellent beginning spot for fantastic hiking trails. A robust suspension bridge allows you to traverse this gap. Beyond the bridge, a trail leads to the area’s most ancient cave dwellings—dating from prehistoric eras. Above the site stands a church constructed completely out of stone, offering panoramic views of Matera when viewed externally.

Discovering Europe's Ancient Rock-Carved City: Oldest in Italy, One of the World’s Earliest

Unknown ancient rome, culture, italy, tourist attractions, travel in italy

Etched right into the stone, the town of Matera stands as one of Italy’s most recognizable attractions. This historic settlement features an extraordinary architectural landscape that showcases some…