We take a trip out of Puglia to nearby Matera, in the neighbouring region of Basilicata.

According to Keith Jenkins, founder and publisher of Velvet Escape, Matera is "one of the most extraordinary towns I've ever laid my eyes on". He explains, "Italy excels in extraordinary cities - I've visited many of them - but Matera surely belongs in the upper echelons of 'the most extraordinary cities' list".

In this guide we suggest a walking tour route and a bus tour. Places to eat, including our favourites, and the remarkable cave dwellings and churches to visit.

A UNESCO World Heritage List destination, recognised for being "one of the most outstanding organised urban settlements ever created in the world, a real materpiece of human creative genius and capacity to adapt".

Map and links for our walking tour suggestions here: Love Matera | From Caves to Culture, Shame to Pride.

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