It might seem that Mel Gibson's "The Passion" and the James Bond films have little in common. Nothing could be further from the truth. Their common denominator is Matera. The city of stone.

You don’t need to be a history expert to appreciate the raw beauty of the rock churches, the maze of narrow streets, and the unique views of the Sassi. This place looks like it’s been taken straight from an old painting. You can explore it both with a guide or on your own. Follow in the footsteps of Agent 007 or discover local flavors on a culinary trail.

And if you’re looking for accommodation that continues this journey through time, visit Sextantio. The caves where shepherds once lived are now luxurious apartments. Raw stone embraces designer furniture. But that’s not all. Imagine dining in a 13th-century church. Candles in the background, classical music, and a crackling fireplace. They also have something for the “do-it-yourself” types who want to delve into the secrets of local cuisine. A cooking class with a true Italian “mamma,” who will reveal the secrets to making perfect Cavatelli or Calzoni.

Photos: sextantio.it/en/legrottedellacivita/matera/