Matera European Culture Capital

(ANSA) - Rome, October 17 - The southern Italian city of Matera was picked Friday as European Culture Capital 2019.
    The Basilicata tourist mecca is famed for its UNESCO-listed 'Sassi' City of Stone that has formed the backdrop to several films including The Passion of the Christ.
    Matera beat Cagliari, Lecce, Perugia-Assisi, Ravenna and Siena.
    Crowds exploded with joy in Matera's central square.
    Mayor Salvatore Adduce said: "the designation of Matera is an example of civilisation and rebirth that comes to Europe from Matera and the whole of the south".
    In Brussels, European Culture Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou voiced confidence that the designation would "significantly" boost the Basilicata city's tourism.