Odile left Matera ten years ago. After studying in London, she now lives in Denmark and pursues a research project on Renaissance political doctrines. Her connection to Basilicata – and to Matera – is direct, instinctive, guided by the senses: it’s the smells and flavors that remind her of how precious the land is, a place she returns to whenever the opportunity arises. The interview provides an opportunity to reflect on the changes and transformations that have affected Matera and on how mass tourism, while increasing employment, has distorted the contours of the city she loves.