If you’ve got Italy on your travel bucket list next year, we’ve got the perfect non-commercial destination that’s truly unforgettable and inexpensive.

Matera is a city in southern Italy and is the center of the district of the same name within the Italian province of Basilicata. The old part of Matera is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List thanks to its very ancient architecture. This construction is considered to be the same as that of late prehistoric times.

This mystical city gained world fame precisely because of the old town of Sassi di Matera (which means the stones of Matera). The city lies on both sides of a small canyon of the Gravina river.

If you are a fan of mystical surroundings, then Matera is the right place for you, because it is a tourist destination that is not commercialized and is a real jewel of the Italian tourist offer.

Precisely because it is not so popular compared to other Italian landmarks, many have never even heard of Matera.

The best way to see the city is to walk through the ancient quarter.

Walk through the narrow streets, climb the stone steps, discover hidden courtyards and uninhabited caves. You can go for a walk on your own or accompanied by a local guide who will introduce you to the history, culture and customs of this picturesque place.