From Matera to Montescaglioso: between stone and faith
Set off from Matera, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, and a World Heritage Site since 1993. On its limestone plateau, Matera gives you the impression of entering a living nativity scene. The natural caves contain houses, churches, monasteries and hermitages, used as the setting for Mel Gibson's “The Passion of the Christ” and Pier Paolo Pasolini's “The Gospel according to St. Matthew”.
East of the city, take the time to visit the Park of the Rock Churches, with more than 150 places of worship, dating from the early Middle Ages to the 19th century, bearing witness to the ancient relationship between man, nature and faith.
After a long ride downhill, past the park and the Gravina stream, you come to Montescaglioso where you can visit the ancient Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo.
Towards Metaponto: on the trail of Pythagoras
Follow the signs for Metaponto and after a steep downhill section, you come to a crossroads bordering province of Taranto.
Are you ready to plunge into Magna Graecia?
Within a few kilometres you will find yourself in the shadow of the fascinating Tavole Palatine, twelve Doric columns, vestiges of an ancient temple dedicated to Hera. Continue with a visit to the archaeological area and museum, with relics from the glorious past that made Metapontum the “capital” of Magna Graecia.
After this wonderful ride, you come to the pine forest before the Ionian coast, where you can stroll barefoot on the amazing sandy beaches, welcomed and caressed by the sea breeze.
