Adventure

The Journey Home 2023 — Matera

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 and Genealogy is sponsored by “Your Dolce Vita” and Dawn Mattera connecting people to their purpose in life and continuing their legacy. Contact Dawn at www.yourdolcevita.com

More photos from the Matera trip.

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