Matera

Set in a canyon, this city is home to a UNESCO World Heritage-protected historical district called the Sassi. A prehistoric troglodyte (cave dwelling) settlement, the neighborhood of homes was created from habitations dug into the rocks. People lived in caves from prehistoric times until the 1950s when the conditions became so deplorable that the government relocated the majority of the cave population to new housing. Since the Sassi became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the area has undergone a renewal and many of the caves have transformed into lovely shops, restaurants and hotels.

The churches in Matera, such as the Matera Cathedral and Pietro Barisano, are also worth visiting for their excellent restored architecture and art collections.