Journey back in time during today’s excursion to Matera and the ancient settlement known as the Sassi. Added to the World Heritage list in 1993, this monochromatic hillside village is the finest example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean. Mel Gibson chose the site as a stand-in for Jerusalem in his film The Passion of the Christ.

Drive about 90 minutes north and west from the pier in Taranto to the province and town of Matera. The adjacent village known as Sassi di Matera (Stones of Matera) is one of the oldest settlements in Italy, with the first inhabitants arriving during the Palaeolithic era.

For centuries, residents excavated their homes, shops and churches directly out of the rocky cliffs. Generation after generation lived in the often damp, windowless homes. Deemed unsafe and unsanitary by the government, the town was forcibly relocated in 1952, leaving most of the structures untouched for decades. Today, Sassi is attracting a growing number of permanent residents who renovate and modernize the interiors of these aging structures.

Begin your two-hour guided walk at Palazzo Lanfranchi (now home to the Mueum of Modern Art), near Chiesa del Carmine. Make your way to Piazzetta Pascoli and admire the views of Sassi, the “White City.” Walk (and climb numerous steps) deeper into the narrow lanes of the ancient limestone village. Visit Casa Grotta, a typical example of the cave-like dwellings. Move on to the rupestrian church of Santa Lucia alle Malve, noted for several important frescoes.

During your walk, pause for wine tasting and a snack of local cheese, salumi, bread and marinated vegetables at Dragone Vini winery. Sample some of the hearty wines of the DOC Matera appellation, recognised in 2005, including Matera Primitivo and Matera Aglianico.

At the conclusion of your guided walk, take advantage of about an hour of free time to explore further or do some shopping on your own. Meet at the appointed place and time for the return drive to Taranto.

NOTE: Modest dress is required to enter churches; no shorts or bare shoulders, please.

PRICE:

$ 130 25-29 participants

$ 150 20-24 participants

$ 170 15-19 participants

W3: Strenuous activity. Tour requires physical effort, walking long distances over uneven or steep terrain or on steps.