EU funding gives Matera a boost

Matera, the European Capital of Culture for 2019, has derived big benefits from EU funding. Its cathedral – which had been closed for 10 years – was restored, returning a valued religious monument to the local community and leading to a boost to tourism in the region. A total of €3 million was provided for the restoration, while a further €6 million has gone on infrastructure projects in the area, such as railway upgrades.