Parco della Murgia Materana or ‘Parco Regionale Archeologico Storico Naturale delle Chiese Rupestri del Materano’ (Regional Historical and Natural Archaeological Park of Murgia Materana Rock Churches) is a fascinating area, characterised by a harmonious relationship between nature and anthropic environment that has lasted since prehistoric times. The friable rock present in these places has given life to cliffs, caves and ravines; man, in turn, with patient and long incision work, has enlarged these cavities, created churches and other spaces.
Among the ravines, that of Matera is truly fascinating: 20 kilometres of canyon crossed by the stream of the same name, and a historical and natural heritage of inestimable value. Parco della Murgia Materana is a true paradise for birdwatchers: this very special environment is home to truly rare bird species such as the short-toed eagle, kite, lanner and Egyptian vulture. The kestrel falcon also lives in the area in close contact with man, nesting under the roofs of abandoned houses and the Benedictine Abbey of Montescaglioso.