Located in the heart of Italy, Matera is a city like no other. With an ancient history dating back to the Paleolithic era, Matera captivates visitors with its unique landscape where time seems to stand still.
Famous for its Sassi caves, churches carved into stone, and labyrinthine alleys, this city is a treasure trove of stories steeped in mythology and legend.
The mysticism of Matera’s origins – Matera’s origins are shrouded in mystery, and this enigmatic past has given rise to numerous myths and legends. Some say the city was founded by the ancient Pelasgians, a pre-Hellenic people themselves shrouded in mystery. The city’s name is thought to derive from the Greek word “meteora,” meaning “things in the air” or “sky above,” reinforcing Matera’s heavenly reputation.
Among these early tales, the legend of the cave dwellers is one of the most fascinating. According to local tradition, the first inhabitants of Matera lived in natural caves that offered them protection from the elements and marauding invaders. These cave dwellers are said to have possessed extraordinary abilities, able to communicate with the spirits of the land and decipher the secrets of the universe.
Over the centuries, these caves developed into the Sassi districts—Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso—which are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sassi di Matera: The ancient stone heart – The Sassi di Matera are perhaps the city’s most iconic feature. These ancient cave dwellings are a remarkable example of human adaptation to the environment. They were built into the rock faces and include apartments, shops, and even churches carved directly out of the rock. Each layer of the dwellings tells a story about the people who once lived there—stories of hardship, faith, and resilience.
One particularly haunting legend tells of a hidden underground city beneath the Sassi, where lost treasures and ancient artifacts lie buried. This subterranean world is said to be guarded by the spirits of those who died trying to protect their city from invaders.
Explorers who dare to uncover these secrets are often warned to proceed with caution so as not to disturb the restless souls that haunt the caves.
The ghostly churches of Matera – The rock churches of Matera add to the mystical appeal of the city. Among them, Santa Maria de Idris stands out in particular. Perched on a rocky cliff, this church is said to have been a place of divine encounters. Legends tell of a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary that appeared in the chapel, inspiring awe and reverence among the faithful. It is believed that on certain holy nights, the statue emits a soft, glowing light that invites true believers to witness a miracle.
Another fascinating ecclesiastical site is the Crypt of Original Sin, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel” of cave churches.
This crypt was discovered by chance by a group of farmers and houses remarkably well-preserved frescoes from the 9th century. According to legend, these works of art were created by divine inspiration, by artists guided by angels to depict biblical scenes.
The magic of Saint Eustace: a story of transformation – A legend widely known among the inhabitants of Matera is the story of Saint Eustace, also known as Eustachio. This Roman general, who became a Christian martyr, is venerated as the patron saint of the city. An exciting legend tells how Eustace and his family were persecuted for their faith and eventually miraculously transformed into deer to escape their tormentors. The myth lives on and contributes to the rich folklore that shapes Matera’s culture.
According to the story, Eustace, once a devout pagan, had a vision while hunting that changed his life. He encountered a deer with a crucifix between its antlers, which prompted him to convert to Christianity. To this day, the image of the deer is a symbol of Matera, representing faith, sacrifice, and redemption.
The mysterious bells of Matera – Another legendary element of Matera’s heritage is the story of the mysterious bells. It is said that the large bell of Matera Cathedral can only be heard by people with a pure heart. The bell, known as “La Cattedrale di Matera,” rings at midnight and its sound echoes through the ancient stones of the city. Those who hear it believe that they will be blessed with good fortune and protected from evil spirits. According to local tradition, the first person to hear the bell was a young shepherd named Giovanni. An orphan and penniless, Giovanni wandered through the Sassi with his flock. One night, as he sought shelter in the shadow of the cathedral, the bell rang. The next morning, he woke up to find that his fortunes had changed: he discovered a hidden treasure of gold and silver that enabled him to build a new life. Since then, the ringing of the bell has been a symbol of hope and divine favor.
Matera in the modern era: Rediscovering the magic – Despite its ancient roots, Matera has not remained untouched by modernity. Since being named European Capital of Culture in 2019, the city has been experiencing a renaissance. Its architecture, culture, and traditions continue to attract scholars, artists, and tourists from around the world, all eager to immerse themselves in its historic past.
But even as Matera looks to the future, it remains deeply connected to its myths and legends. Every narrow alleyway and stone staircase whispers stories of ancient gods, ghostly apparitions, and heroic deeds. The city’s magical aura transcends time, offering an experience that is both ethereal and tangible.
The eternal magic of Matera – Matera is more than just a city, it is a living testament to human perseverance, creativity, and spirituality. The intertwining of history, myth, and legend creates a narrative that is as captivating as it is timeless. From the ancient cave dwellings of the Sassi to the wondrous tales of saints and apparitions, Matera offers a journey through the mythical past to the present.
As you stroll through the streets, let yourself be enveloped by the stories of Matera. Listen to the bells, search for hidden frescoes, and feel the presence of those who walked these paths long before us. The magic of Matera lives on, inviting every visitor to become part of its legendary history.
