Matera is known for its stone-carved architecture and unique cultural heritage, but this isn’t why the town has made the front pages of Italian newspapers in recent times.  After its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera received plenty of national and international attention, especially thanks to its Sassi. Even before that, its incredible heritage and architecture became part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

Now, a new chapter of Matera’s history may open, with some calling for a referendum to allow the town to become part of Puglia. The proposal, initiated by former senators Corrado Danzi and Tito Di Maggio, is rooted in the belief that Puglia’s thriving economy could provide Matera with an expanded platform for growth and infrastructure development. However, the  potential transfer sparked discussions in the country, highlighting both the anticipated benefits and possible drawbacks of such a shift.