Matera, Basilicata, Matera
Matera notably famous for the Sassi or intricate series of caves, dates from the Middle Ages when when Byzantine and Benedictine monks built rock-hewn churches and monasteries literally from stones, these were later inhabited by farmers and built into homes, stables and shops for a really odd landscape. Matera is the capital of Matera province located in the Basilicata region of Italy and the caves are a UNESCO world heritage site, the town today boasts many bed and breakfasts, hotels and restaurants.