Start your day with an exploration of Matera, a city brimming with history and captivating architecture. This article showcases the insights of photographer Federico Scarchilli as he captures the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Italian dream: The pale stone walls of Matera in southern Italy are the inspiration for photographer Federico Scarchilli’s latest project.Changing times: Matera has had a recent change of fortunes. In the mid-20th century, the city was in squalor and people made their home in dark caves carved into the hillside.World Heritage spot: People were gradually moved out into newer housing. The grottoes were renovated. In 1993, UNESCO granted the city World Heritage status.Change of fortunes: The city has been named a European Capital of Culture for 2019 and is now a thriving tourist spot.New era: Many of the once-dank cave homes are now inviting shops, restaurants, and hotels.Historic city: Scarchilli was intrigued by Matera’s history. ‘Matera is one of the oldest cities in Italy, it comes from the Paleolithic and up to the Middle Ages,’ he tells CNN Travel.Art and culture: ‘It’s full of art especially inside the rock churches,’ says Scarchilli. These interiors form the subject of some of his most striking images.Stone city: The white stone of Matera makes it particularly eye-catching. ‘I’m trying to explore this stone as an element,’ says Scarchilli.Reflections: ‘The stone reflects the light and so Matera was reflecting a lot of light,’ says Scarchilli. ‘So I tried to highlight these characteristics, these elements of Matera.’Incredible frescoes: Viewing the incredible frescoes inside the caves is one of Scarchilli’s must-see recommendations. ‘I found in Matera, something really inspiring,’ he says.Murgia views: The photographer also recommends viewing Matera from Murgia, a hill on the other side of the ravine over which the city is built.Exploring via photography: Scarchilli studied Photography at the European Institute of Design in Rome. ‘Photography to me is something that can bring me close to a place where I can go,’ he says.Religious focus: Scarchilli’s next project will involve photographing religious spaces. ‘I want to get a huge vision of the religion situation in Italy,’ he says.Inspirational place: He also hopes to return to Matera. ‘I found in Matera, something really inspiring,’ he says.
