Tuff (from the Italian tufo) is a type of rock consisting of consolidated volcanic ash ejected from vents during a volcanic eruption. Tuff is sometimes called tufa, particularly when used as construction material, although tufa also refers to a quite different rock. Rock that contains greater than 50% tuff is considered tuffaceous.

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The tufa of Matera whose scientific name is “Quaternary Calcarenite”, is an unusual chalky stone of sedimentary origin. It is ductile and extremely resistant to compression. Up until a few years ago, tufa was one of the main construction materials to be used in the region of Basilicata. Today, thanks to its association with Matera’s ancient Sassi, built and dug out of the tufa, it enjoys national and even international recognition. In response to the revival and growing awareness of Matera’s Sassi, there has been an increased demand in Italy and abroad for artisan products made of tufa stone.

[Via progettoarte.info website]