Luxury Italian Villa Rentals & Sales

Matera

The stunning city of Matera in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy has recently earned global recognition as the setting for the controversial film 'The Passion of the Christ'. Produced and directed by the famous Hollywood actor Mel Gibson, the film portrays the final hours in the life of Jesus Christ before he was crucified by the Romans. The film's realistic depiction of the full horror of a public crucifixion of the time, as well as its treatment of the Jews, has made this film one of the most controversial ever produced. The film's producers were looking for a location which most accurately represented the setting for the death of Jesus, and after much searching found it in Matera. This location is only two hours drive from Contursi and represents an evocative journey back in time, even for secular or non-Christian visitors. Please tour the photo gallery opposite to sample the sheer beauty and tranquility of the city.

Visit the official web site of the film