Italy's ancient cave dwellings at the instep of the country's boot are becoming the latest in luxury stays, promising travellers the deepest of sleep.

The white city of Matera, which was home to impoverished families 50 years ago, is now at the center of a tourism boom.

The caves, also called Sassi, were settled first by shepherds and later by hermit monks. They were home to hundreds of impoverished families in the 1950s.

Today, many of the caves have been scrubbed clean, turning misery into luxury. Cave dwellings are restored as restaurants, inns and 5-star bed and breakfasts.

Lucio Ruscigno, Director of Hotel Sant' Angelo Sassi, Matera, said, "In 50 years, the Sassi have shifted from misery to luxury. For me it's a cause for pride, because I live here and was born here. It's almost like a redemption from a past of suffering and poverty."

With the close of a single window, guests are able enjoy the deepest of sleep, void of all light and sound.

At the Hotel San'Angelo, canopy beds, candles and bedspreads made of animal skin are accompanied by modern amenities such as internet, phone and televisions.

Alberto Amorosa, Guest, said, "Everything here is pretty much made of stone. And the room does have some air conditioning and heating devices, but it's very different."

In 1993, UNESCO named the Sassi of Matera a world heritage site. The honor attracted some film directors to choose Matera as their biblical backdrop and has brought many visitors.

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