Windows and Archway.Matera

Matera is one of the most interesting, unusual and memorable destinations in Italy. In the remote southern region of Basilicata(also called... more

by Jennie Breeze

Title

Windows and Archway.Matera

Artist

Jennie Breeze

Medium

Photograph - Original Img_1222

Description

Matera is one of the most interesting, unusual and memorable destinations in Italy. In the remote southern region of Basilicata(also called Lucania),still little-visited by foreign travelers, it is a town famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts, the sassi. Curious visitors can stay in caves, wander the lanes alongside the picturesque cave-filled cliffs of this fascinating place. Small lanes, alleys and stairways wind through the districts, some still closed off and abandoned. At first glance, the slopes might seem lined merely with small shabby stone buildings. But behind the simple facades - which sometimes extend outwards like traditional houses - the dwellings go back into the rock, cut out usually to form one large room, with a kind of ante-chamber at the back for animals. These parts of Matera are strange, quiet and picturesque; the pale rock makes the scene seem faded, colorless and timeless.

Uploaded

October 22nd, 2015