Matera’s year as European Capital of Culture is drawing to a close. But its legacy will remain thanks to the unique involvement of local residents. Nine months ago the southern Italian city, known for its ancient caves, was transformed as music, art, sound and colour filled the streets. Organisers always wanted to involve the local community and the people of Matera embraced the radical transformation.

One local resident said it had generated great community spirit across the city. “While Matera is an ancient town, it’s geographically isolated. And instead this (Matera 2019) has led the population to open up and share the beauty of the events."