Discover Matera’s Sassi: Private 3-Hour Full Itinerary Tour

5 of 5 stars
5
48,00€per person
Book
Prenotazione
Location
Matera
Duration

3 hours

Type

Private

Difficulty
Easy

Description

Discovering Matera: A Private Walking Tour Through History and the Sassi

 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Matera, a city steeped in history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your adventure begins in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where your expert guide will introduce you to the fascinating heritage of this unique city.

 

Romanesque Beauty and Hidden Gems

 

As you step into the historic heart of Matera, your first stop is the enchanting Church of San Giovanni Battista, a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture. From there, delve underground into the Casa Cava, a former tuff quarry that has been transformed into an impressive auditorium and cultural center, showcasing the city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation.

 

The Sassi and Rock Churches

 

Continue your exploration in the Rione Sasso Barisano, home to the Rock Church of Sant’Antonio Abate. This sacred site, carved into the stone, offers a glimpse into Matera’s spiritual past. Moving into the Sasso Caveoso, you’ll visit a traditional Casa Grotta, a meticulously recreated cave dwelling that brings the everyday life of past centuries vividly to life.

 

Breathtaking Views and Canyon Paths

 

Stroll along the dramatic Via Madonna delle Virtù, a picturesque road perched on the edge of the canyon, and cross through the historic Porta Pistola (known locally as "Pert P’stèl"). Pause in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a scenic square that invites you to take in the views and atmosphere of this remarkable cityscape.

 

From Ancient Streets to Baroque Splendor

 

Wander along Via Bruno Buozzi, discovering hidden stories in every corner, before visiting the Madonna delle Grazie, another rock-cut church that holds centuries of history. Your journey transitions into the modern city as you walk the main street, with a stop at the striking Church of Purgatory, an ornate example of Baroque architecture.

 

A Grand Finale at the Cathedral

 

The tour leads you to Piazza San Francesco d’Assisi, where you’ll explore the eponymous church dedicated to St. Francis. Next, visit Piazza del Sedile, once the seat of the local parliament during the Kingdom of Naples. The experience concludes on a majestic note at the Matera Cathedral, a Romanesque marvel perched at the city’s highest point, offering panoramic views and a sense of wonder that lingers long after your visit.

 

Experience Matera like never before on this private walking tour, where history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes come together to tell the story of one of Italy’s most extraordinary cities.

Equipment

  • In case of rain: Bring an umbrella or K-Way
  • Clothing: Comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season and weather
  • Drinks: It is advisable to bring a reusable water bottle

Available languages

Italian, English

Highlights

  • Personalized Experience with an Expert Guide: Enjoy the flexibility of a private tour with an expert guide who will tailor the experience to your interests, providing fascinating insights and answering all your questions
  • Explore Matera’s UNESCO World Heritage Sassi: Walk through the iconic Sassi di Matera, an ancient cave-dwelling district, and discover its unique blend of history, culture, and architecture
  • Discover the Treasures of Casa Cava: Step inside Casa Cava, an ancient tuff quarry transformed into a stunning auditorium and conference center, showcasing exceptional restoration work
  • Step Back in Time at the Sasso Barisano: Explore this ancient cave neighborhood, where you'll visit the unique Church of Sant’Antonio Abate
  • Journey Through the Sasso Caveoso: Wander through the picturesque Sasso Caveoso district, visit a traditional "Casa Grotta," and enjoy stunning views from the Via Madonna delle Virtù
  • Admire the Majestic Matera Cathedral: End your tour with a visit to the magnificent Matera Cathedral, an example of Puglian Romanesque architecture, perched at the highest point of the city

Included

  • Exclusive Expert Tour Guide: The tour will be led by a qualified and knowledgeable tour guide specializing in the Sassi of Matera.
  • Guided Tour of the Two Sassi Districts: During the guided tour of the two Sassi districts, Barisano and Caveoso, participants will explore the narrow streets, rock-hewn churches, cave dwellings, and other points of interest.
  • Entrance Tickets for Casa Cava: Visit the fascinating Casa Cava with an entrance ticket included.
  • Entrance Ticket to a Casa Grotta: Enjoy a visit to a traditionally furnished "Casa Grotta" and experience how the people of Matera once lived.
  • Entrance Ticket to the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate: Visit the rock church of Sant'Antonio Abate, one of Matera's unique historic sites.
  • Entrance Ticket to the Church of Madonna delle Grazie: Explore the beautiful Church of Madonna delle Grazie, another fascinating cave church.
  • Discount Coupon: Enjoy local products or a drink while admiring the beautiful sunset in a picturesque bar in Piazza Duomo. Collect your 10% discount coupon at our agency.

Not included

  • Meals and drinks:  Meals consumed during the tour may not be included in the price and will be charged to participants.
  • Entrance Tickets: Tickets to specific museums, churches, or attractions may not be included in the tour price and may require an additional fee.
  • Transportation to/from the place of departure: Transportation to and from the meeting place may not be included in the price of the tour and participants should arrange it themselves.
  • Tips:  Tips for the tour guide or the staff of the places visited are not included in the price of the tour and are at the discretion of the participants.
  • Additional services:  Some additional services such as souvenirs, optional activities, or special transfers may not be included and require an additional fee.
  • Be sure to check the tour details to know exactly what is included in the services offered and what any extras are available.
  • Transfer non inclusi

Meeting point

Matera – Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Matera, MT, Italia

Directions on departure

The meeting point for the tour of the Sassi di Matera is located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, in the central area of the city. It is advisable to reach it on foot, as the road is not accessible to private transport. The nearest stop is Matera Central Station, 10 min walk. Paid parking - Sant'Isidoro - Daily price (from 8:00 to 23:00) - 0,70€ / 30 min - Via Lanera, 16, 75100 Matera MT. - Paid parking - H24 (1,00€/hour) - In Via Pasquale Vena, 3, 75100 Matera MT.
Departure times
Departure times
Daily10:0011:0012:0013:0014:0015:00

Itinerary

Itinerary map
Church of San Giovanni Battista

As you head toward the historic heart of the city, you’ll encounter the beautiful Church of San Giovanni Battista, a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque style.

Casa Cava

The tour continues with a visit to Casa Cava, a hypogeal space once used as a tuff quarry and now transformed into an auditorium and conference center thanks to an extraordinary restoration effort.

Rione Sasso Barisano

Head to the Rione Sasso Barisano, where you can visit the rock-hewn Church of Sant'Antonio Abate and admire the distinctive troglodyte dwellings.

Rock Church of Sant’Antonio Abate

One of the tour's highlights is the visit to the Rock Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, an ancient place of worship carved into the rock. The guide will provide detailed insights into the history and religious significance of this unique structure.

Sasso Caveoso

Continue to the picturesque Rione Sasso Caveoso, where you can explore a traditionally furnished cave dwelling and walk along Via Madonna delle Virtù, a scenic road overlooking the canyon.

Cave Dwelling

Participants will have the chance to explore a typical cave dwelling, once home to the inhabitants of the Sassi. This immersive experience offers an authentic glimpse into daily life in the past, as well as a deeper understanding of the Sassi’s architecture and lifestyle.

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Make a brief stop at the evocative Piazza San Pietro Caveoso to soak in the unique atmosphere of the Sassi.

Church of Madonna delle Grazie

Continue along Via Bruno Buozzi to visit the Church of Madonna delle Grazie, another fascinating rock-hewn place of worship.

Piazza del Sedile

The tour proceeds to the charming Piazza del Sedile, which once hosted the Parliament during the Kingdom of Naples.

Piazza San Francesco

Reach Piazza San Francesco d’Assisi for an external visit to the church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi.

The Cathedral

The tour concludes with a visit to the magnificent Matera Cathedral, a Romanesque gem that dominates the city from its highest point.

Useful information

• Cancellation or postponement due to adverse weather conditions:
- In the event of adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or storms, we reserve the right to cancel or postpone the excursion to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
Safety is our top priority.

• Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellation requests should be sent by email to ota@martulliviaggi.com.
- A full refund is only possible if the cancellation request is received at least 3 days before the scheduled departure date of the tour. Otherwise, the full cost of the tour will be charged.

• Cancellation within 3 days of departure:
- If the cancellation is made within 3 days of the tour departure date, 100% of the tour fee will be charged as cancellation fee. This policy is applied to guarantee the reservation of services and to cover any costs already incurred.

The itinerary may be subject to changes.

For more information or additional questions, please feel free to contact the phone number below. Our team will be happy to provide you with all the information you need to ensure a memorable experience during the tour of Matera.

Contact Number: +39 0835334543 / +39 3284364400

We will be available to assist you with any necessary request or clarification, ensuring that your tour is organized flawlessly and smoothly.

ATTENTION:
*The itinerary indicated in the program may be subject to change for operational reasons or unforeseen circumstances (especially weather conditions). However, the number and quality of visits and excursions will be maintained. Any changes will not entitle you to refunds.

Frequently asked questions

Nessuna domanda frequente

Reviews

Contact and information

+39 0835 334 543
info@martulliviaggi.com

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