Matera

Matera is a city in the region of Basilicata, Southern Italy, known for its unique historical and architectural heritage. Here is a detailed history of Matera:

Prehistoric and Ancient History

• Paleolithic Era: Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. The natural caves in the area provided shelter for early humans.
• Neolithic Era: During the Neolithic period, the area saw the development of agriculture and more permanent settlements.

Ancient to Medieval Period

• Roman Era: Matera became part of the Roman Empire, but it remained a relatively small settlement. The impact of Roman culture and infrastructure was significant, yet not as prominent as in other parts of Italy.
• Byzantine Era: After the fall of the Roman Empire, Matera came under Byzantine control. During this period, the city saw the construction of rock-hewn churches, many of which are still extant today.
• Lombard and Norman Rule: In the 7th and 8th centuries, Matera was part of the Lombard Duchy of Benevento. The Normans later took control in the 11th century, and Matera was incorporated into the Kingdom of Sicily.

Renaissance to 19th Century

• Aragonese and Spanish Period: Matera was under the control of the Aragonese and then the Spanish crown as part of the Kingdom of Naples.
• 18th Century: The city experienced some development, but much of the population continued to live in the Sassi, ancient cave dwellings carved into the tufa rock.
• 19th Century: Matera became part of the unified Kingdom of Italy in 1861. However, the city remained impoverished, and the Sassi were seen as a symbol of backwardness.

20th Century to Present

• World War II Era: Matera was one of the first Italian cities to rise against Nazi occupation, on September 21, 1943.
• Post-War Period: In the 1950s, the Italian government forcibly relocated many residents from the Sassi to modern housing due to poor living conditions. The Sassi were abandoned and deemed a national disgrace.
• 1970s and Onwards: Efforts began to restore and preserve the Sassi. In 1993, the Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 2019: Matera was named the European Capital of Culture, highlighting its transformation from a symbol of poverty to one of cultural and historical significance.

Significant Landmarks

• Sassi di Matera: These ancient cave dwellings are the heart of Matera’s historical and cultural identity. They include two districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, characterized by their unique architecture.
• Rock-Hewn Churches: Matera is famous for its many rock-hewn churches, such as the Church of San Pietro Barisano and the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, featuring frescoes from the Byzantine era.
• Matera Cathedral: Built in the 13th century in Apulian Romanesque style, the cathedral is one of the city's significant landmarks.
• Palazzo Lanfranchi: This 17th-century baroque palace now houses the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata.
• Castello Tramontano: An unfinished castle built in the 16th century by Count Gian Carlo Tramontano.

Historical Figures

• Carlo Levi: An Italian writer and painter whose book "Christ Stopped at Eboli" brought attention to the poverty in Matera and the region of Basilicata.

Matera today is a vibrant city that attracts tourists from around the world to explore its rich history and unique architecture.