Matera is one of the few cities in the world that has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times. The Sassi, the heart of the old city, consists of two natural amphitheaters carved out of the rock. In the prehistoric caves you will find not only houses, but also churches and palaces. Some also serve as a restaurant or gallery. Due to its unique location and special appearance, Matera is often used as a film location. For example for The Passion (with Mel Gibson) Ben Hur and the last James Bond film were filmed here.
