We heard so much about Matera that we made sure to put it on our agenda, Matera is a UNESCO world heritage site and the oldest city in Europe. Dozens of movies were filmed there including the Passion Of Christ, No Time to Die and Wonder Woman.
Our guide Pasquale informed us that there are 156 churches in Matera. Many are located in caves. One thing that I did not expect was that there is a very modern vibrant town also.
Along the walk down into the old city, Pasquale took us to a museum that was the home to a family as late as 1958. There was no heat, running water or toilet facilities. Two rooms one for the people and one for the animals.
The Italian president at the time moved many of the families to modern apartments. Most of the old city is being renovated by the Italian government.
For an excellent personal tour you can reach Pasquale at 39 338 4417906
Videos of Matera
During our trip in Puglia we used VIP Service by Domenico Loiacono, to bring us from Taranto to Bari, Matera and back and for our trip to the airport.
Domenico’s drivers were not only on time, but early, flexible and very courteous. Nicola, our driver for Matera, took for a stop in Acquaviva Della Fonte the home of some of my ancestors and to other small towns on the way back. Even gave us a bit of a lesson in Barese.
I highly recommend VIP Service if you are in Puglia. Click here for website or contact Domenico at 39 380 701 6616

Italian Roots with Actor & Director Anthony Robert Grasso
In this episode, actor and director Anthony Robert Grasso shares his journey through Italian heritage, acting, and filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of tradition, community, and continuous learning in the arts. Explore Italian roots and the power of storytelling with actor and director Anthony Robert Grasso. In this conversation, Anthony reflects on his professional background and the importance of tradition in his filmmaking career. He shares personal stories about his early work as a fine art

Caltagirone Ceramics, Roman Mosaics & Palermo
Click here to join out Facebook group Morning: Ceramic Craftsmanship in Caltagirone We checked out of our hotel and set off across the interior of Sicily toward Palermo. Our first stop was the hilltop town of Caltagirone, world-famous for hand-painted ceramics (maiolica). We visited a local ceramic factory to watch artisans shape raw clay and hand-paint vibrant geometric patterns. We also visited the iconic Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte—a breathtaking 142-step staircase where every

Siracusa & Ortigia – Grottos, Low Bridge and Street Market
Click here to join out Facebook group Morning Departure and Heading to the Port We boarded our bus at 9:00 AM for the roughly 90-minute scenic drive south from Catania down to Siracusa and its historic island heart, Ortigia. Upon arriving at the port, we boarded a boat for a tour around the perimeter of Ortigia and into the dramatic coastal sea caves and grottos. Right at the very start of the boat trip, we

Palazzo Restoration in Vasto
In this episode, Michael Fattorossi shares his 20-year journey of researching his Italian family roots, restoring a historic palazzo in Vasto, and navigating Italy’s bureaucratic system as a digital nomad. Discover insights into Italian history, real estate, and practical tips for expats and travelers. Beyond the physical repairs, this project represents a deep connection to Vasto Italy and the stories that define our lineage. Whether you are currently conducting your own Italian genealogy research or

The Magic of Taormina, Ancient Views, and Evening in Catania
Click here to join out Facebook group Morning Coastal Views and Heading North After fueling up with a superb breakfast at the Grand Hotel Baia Verde, we boarded the bus for a highly anticipated day trip to Taormina, one of Sicily’s most dazzling clifftop jewels. As we drove along the coastline, our guide, Valentino, kept us entertained and informed with a rich history of the region. Frame after frame, Mount Etna continued to steal the

Calabria to Sicily – Swordfish in Scilla, the Ferry, and Catania Feast
Click here to join out Facebook group A Morning Departure and a Brilliant Detour After a quick breakfast and some last-minute packing, we loaded up the bus and prepared for the long trek south to Catania, Sicily. But this wasn’t just a simple travel day—we had a fantastic bonus built into the itinerary! Having visited the area several years ago, I had suggested to Phil from Phil~italy that we make a detour to Scilla on

