The stunning city of Matera in Basilicata in Southern Italy is famous for being one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and for its well preserved historical centre with its ‘Sassi’. These are carved caves that were hewn into the steep ravine leading down to the River Grauna. Occupied until the first half of the 20th century, when over population became a problem, these cave dwellings are famous and iconic structures.
In this city built out of stone – a city that looks like a giant sculpture – you will find a museum of sculptures, Matera’s Museum of Contemporary Sculpture (Museo della scultura contemporanea di Matera – Musma). An incredible museum in a spectacular setting, it is a must-see for all those who have found a vacation rental in Apulia, a neighbouring region where there are plenty of wonderful villas to choose from and from which you can easily travel to Matera for a day trip.
Housed in the historic 16th century Palazzo Pomarici, as well as several underground tunnels dug out of the soft tufa stone in the historic Sassi district, the museum is home to works by the likes of Cambellotti, Cascella, Consagra, Del Pezzo, Matta and more. In addition to the sculptures for which the museum is known, there are also drawings, engravings, pieces of jewelry, medals and other pieces on display and a library that houses several thousand tomes. Curated by Giuseppe Appella, all of the works of art in the museum were generously donated by the artists themselves or by their families, private collectors and other galleries. The museum also regularly plays host to a vast array of different, temporary exhibitions.
Located in Sasso Barisano, the museum is open 10:00 - 14:00 from Tuesday to Sunday and tickets cost €5.00 for the full fee and €3.50 at the reduced rate. Fascinating and in an incredible setting, it is just another charming feature of the town of Matera.
Housed in the historic 16th century Palazzo Pomarici, as well as several underground tunnels dug out of the soft tufa stone in the historic Sassi district, the museum is home to works by the likes of Cambellotti, Cascella, Consagra, Del Pezzo, Matta and more. In addition to the sculptures for which the museum is known, there are also drawings, engravings, pieces of jewelry, medals and other pieces on display and a library that houses several thousand tomes. Curated by Giuseppe Appella, all of the works of art in the museum were generously donated by the artists themselves or by their families, private collectors and other galleries. The museum also regularly plays host to a vast array of different, temporary exhibitions.
Located in Sasso Barisano, the museum is open 10:00 - 14:00 from Tuesday to Sunday and tickets cost €5.00 for the full fee and €3.50 at the reduced rate. Fascinating and in an incredible setting, it is just another charming feature of the town of Matera.