The heart of an ancient water system
In the Basilicata region, where Matera is located, drinking water resources are limited. The town has therefore always made use of every available source, including rainwater. Palombaro Lungo was built in the 13th century and later (in the 19th century) enlarged to supply the growing population. This huge cistern was carved directly into the limestone rock and its walls were coated with a special waterproof plaster called "thermol" to prevent water seepage.
The architecture of the underground world
Entering Palombaro Lungo is like a journey into another dimension. Here you will discover a vast underground space with high vaulted ceilings that resemble a cathedral rather than a technical building. The cisterns had a capacity of up to 5 million litres of water, which was drained by an elaborate system of canals and aqueducts. The water was strictly protected and used for drinking, cooking and basic hygiene.
In the 20th century, when Matera was struggling with poverty and the departure of its inhabitants, the Palombaro Lungo cistern was forgotten. It was only rediscovered in 1991 during renovations in Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Today, the cistern has been fully restored and is open to the public as part of tourist tours showing Matera's unique history.
Palombaro Lungo is not only a monument to the technical mastery of past generations, but also an opportunity to understand how people lived and survived in difficult conditions. A visit to this underground world is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the history not only of Matera, but of humanity as a whole. If you are planning to visit Matera, be sure to put Palombaro Lungo on your bucket list.
