Scopri i Sassi di Matera

I greatly despise empty clichés like "tHiS iS tHe BeSt ThInG eVaRrRrR" or "bEst ReStAuRanT iN iTaLy" but I must say that this: this is THE best walking tour I experienced. I had taken about 30 walking tours in my life and none really come close to this. I guess this can be attributed to me being the only participant in the tour, but another can be attributed to Vincenza's (the guide's) encyclopaedic knowledge, and the customisability of the tour. First, the customisability. You can literally wander to any part of Matera and he can help explain, unravel, and unpack the city and its history for you. At least, that is what we did. I believe the customisability and free-wheeling nature of the tour is because he is a man of immense knowledge who can give nuggets to essays of knowledge about many things in Matera. Second, his knowledge is quite astounding. Our conversation ranges from religious architecture, history, Italy in WWII, property rights and ownership in Matera from past and present, economy of Matera past and present, painting technologies in the middle ages, among many other things. The moment that really blew my mind was this: I was commenting on the seeming printing error of a manhole cover, and he explained to me that it is not a printing error, but part of an aqueduct construction project that took place under Mussolini. He then whipped out his binder to show me where the duct starts, how it looks like, where it ends, and the monument at the end. He has been doing guided tours for Puglia and Matera for a decade or more and it really shows. I have not have any walking tour before that rivals this and anything since. I dare not say this tour is the best in the world, but it was the best I had. With his knowledge and the free flowing nature of the tour, it might as well be a private tour. But that, of course, will depend on the number of other participants.

Without a doubt Matera, is now, one of our favourite cities in Italy. Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by our tour guide Vincenzo Di Modugno. Vincenzo is such a warm personality and highly motivated guide (recommendable!). I truly enjoyed walking through the area of Matera. The scenery was beautiful, making you feel, like you went back in time. The atmosphere is so special. All respect for Vincenzo who does a great job there; a true sample of an excellent tour guide! He was always so flexible and passionate, naturally, explaining the history of the place. He shares his knowledge with enthusiasm. It is also good to mention that Vincenzo also speaks clear and fluent English, which was highly appreicated! Many thanks again and I recommend Vincenzo Di Modugno to everyone!