The stone walls of Matera do not whisper history—they press it into the air. The scent of damp limestone still clings to cave ceilings carved thousands of years ago, while narrow passages funnel light ...

Tucked inside the arch of Italy’s boot, Matera could have easily disappeared into the annals of history — the community was inhabited some 10,000 years before falling into disrepair, and was ...

Once known for their squalid living conditions, the prehistoric limestone warrens have been repurposed as lodgings, bars, and artist workshops. Would staying there feel extraordinary or tasteless?

In the southern Italian town of Matera, a system of natural caves called Sassi first inhabited during the Paleolithic Age has become a bustling tourist destination. It’s something of a full-circle ...

Matera in southern Italy is a town carved into pale limestone cliffs. With its rows of cave dwellings, this city has been home to people for thousands of years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.