b'Best TimesMATERA, ITALYS ROCK-ING CITYAncient caves, amazing food, and an artsy vibe.By Heather Alcott-Moritz, Travel Consultant San Pietro Caveoso (church in the square) andSanta Maria di Idris (church atop the hill)Matera in southern Matera from a cave across the canyon Italy is an ancient city close to the Amalfi Coast and Puglia. It is one of my favorite placesa true hidden gem of Europe, not just Italy. Matera is one of Europes oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back 10,000 years, and famous for its hillsides full of sassi (caves). There are so many things that connect me to Matera. I love the history, art, and food culture. I like the fact that there is something appealing for everyone, from couples to families. My favorite place to stay is the Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita. I consider it the most authentic stone cave hotel experience with modern amenities in Matera. You can expect uneven stone floors, dim, candle-lit rooms, and terraces overlooking the sassi. There are other more modern hotels, but this one lets you experience a different historical time. Matera has a very artsy vibe, and as a collector of art, I appreciate this aspect of the city. When I was in Matera last, I fell in love with and bought a piece of art called the Circle of Life by Andrea Roggi, a famous sculptor 38 \x1a BE ENCHANTED'