Experience the rich & ancient history of one of the most fascinating towns in Italy's deep south. Discover its hidden treasures & learn about one of the oldest, continuously inhabited human settlements in the world. You'll be transported back in time, as I guide you through the labyrinthine Sassi, Matera's ancient neighborhoods, which are situated along the precipice of a canyon. You'll enjoy brea
thtaking views of the canyon & Sassi, with its unique sculpted architecture, as I narrate the profound history of this place. Once written off as the "Shame of Italy", a symbol of the country's impoverished and "backward" south, the town has come full circle, with UNESCO's recognition of it as a World Heritage Site in 1993 and its 2014 declaration as European Capital of Culture for 2019. My mission is to give my clients the best possible experience through a more intimate and enriching guided tour. The fact that I'm a native-English speaker, with common cultural references, allows me to establish greater rapport with clients, facilitating interpersonal communication, in order to better meet my client's needs.. Being a non-native "local", who has lived here for several years, is advantageous, in that it allows me to understand and experience the city both as an "insider" and "outsider", giving me a unique perspective, which I enjoy sharing with clients. On your tour you can expect to see the historic center/Sassi, as well as breathtaking views of the canyon. You will also have the possibility to visit one of the unique rock churches located within the Sassi & cave-house museums. I also organize personalized tours within & outside of Matera upon request. For more information on other tours, visit my website www.materatours.net
