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Monday, unfortunately… we already have to leave but not immediately. We still have all morning to enjoy Matera and we chose to get lost in the beauty and uniqueness of the Historical and natural archaeological park of the Rock Churches of Materano. Breakfast at the bar and then immediately by car; the journey is not very long, it is about 15 minutes. We find ourselves in a very large square in which to park the car, fenced by a wooden fence. We cross quickly and here we are in the ancient heart of Matera. In front of us an immensity of caves dug in the tuff and below us the Gravina.
We, always unwise, climb through the rocks to enjoy all this beautiful panorama to the fullest. A few nearby groups sing accompanied by a guitar. Little girls who might have been at school, are instead sitting on the grass telling each other who knows what secrets. Many couples smile as they frame themselves with the smartphone’s front camera.
At our feet flows a long stream, whose bed of lime makes its way into the Gravina di Matera lies the unmistakable landscape of the Murgia Materana surrounds us, all around.
In the historical-natural archaeological park of the Rock Churches of Materano,there are 150 rock churches, dating back to the period of the upper Middle East. They welcomed the many Byzantine and Benedictine monastic communities. We go in and out of the caves, climb, higher and higher and then go down again.
In front of us the Sassi of Matera shine in the sun like small pearls while the nightingales cross the sky singing.
Matera, it’s time to say goodbye… we have to go home but we would still stay here to look at you, admire you, walk through your little streets.
Little Matera, you fell, you got dirty, you were abandoned and forgotten. Today you are a wonderful queen, with your most beautiful dress you are the center of everyone’s attention. You get observed, admired and offer yourself to all those who present themselves before you. Today you can boast of the title you have been awarded: European Capital of Culture 2019. Stand out, because this time you will be the most beautiful, the strongest, the bravest.
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