If you're reading this blog you know how passionate I am about learning the history and culture of other places. Well today, Thursday, was really beyond description.
Sassi di Matera is an ancient town known for its cave dwellings, both historic and modern.
The caves show evidence of human habitation dating back to 7,000 B.C. and are thought to have been the homes of the first humans in what is now modern day Italy.
The Italian government forcibly moved most of the people out of the caves in the 1950's, citing the area as an eyesore and health hazard.
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| Life in a cave |
Since the 1980 's tourism has given new life to the caves. Our local guide has turned 7 caves into a modern home for his family. He also said that there are B and Bs that offer a night in a cave for $1,000---without breakfast! The remake of Ben Hur, out in 2016, will be partially filmed here too. Talk about re-purposing!!!
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