How to Explore the Wonders of Matera with a Sassi di Matera Guided Tour

Matera, the ancient city of caves, is located in the southern part of Italy. Its unique houses, buildings, and churches dug into the rock, known as Sassi di Matera, have attracted tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning to visit this spectacular city, you can’t miss the Sassi di Matera Guided Tour. In this guide, we will help you plan your trip to Matera and make the most out of your visit to the city.

Experience

The Sassi di Matera Guided Tour is a 2-hour walking tour that will take you through the winding streets and alleys of Matera’s Sassi district. With the help of a professional tour guide, you will have the opportunity to explore the city’s unique architecture, historical landmarks, and hidden treasures. By the end of the tour, you will have gained insight into the city’s long and fascinating history as well as its modern-day culture.

Highlights

There are many highlights that you will encounter on this guided tour. Here are some of the most notable:

Discover Sassi di Matera on a Guided Tour

The tour will take you through the ancient cave dwellings in Matera’s Sassi district, allowing you to see firsthand how the locals lived in these unique structures. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the city, and how it has evolved over centuries.

Explore a Variety of Buildings including Rock Churches, Piazzas, and Various Ancient Structures

Matera is not just a city of caves but also a city of rock churches, piazzas, and ancient structures. The tour will take you through the most beautiful and historically significant landmarks of Matera. You’ll have a chance to marvel at the stunning architecture and beautiful designs that have been preserved for centuries.

Marvel at Panoramic Views of the City

The tour will also take you to some of the best viewpoints of Matera, offering panoramic views of the city. From here, you’ll have spectacular photo opportunities and will be able to appreciate the natural beauty of the city.

Full Description

The Sassi di Matera Guided Tour will begin at Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera, where you’ll meet your expert tour guide. From there, you’ll be introduced to the districts of Sassi, beginning at Sasso Barisano. Next, you will stop at Casa Cava, a centuries-old hypogeum (underground cave) that was once used as a quarry but has now been transformed into a convention center. The restoration work on this structure is remarkable, and you’ll be able to see firsthand how the ancient cave dwellings in Matera have been repurposed. After Casa Cava, you will visit the rock church of Sant’Antonio Abate in Sasso Barisano. You’ll be amazed at the beautiful frescoes and intricate details that are hidden inside this church. This is a perfect example of the traditional culture of Matera. From there, the tour will continue to Sasso Caveoso, where you’ll get to experience a typical Matera cave-house. You’ll get to see how locals lived in these unique structures once upon a time. The tour will then proceed to Via Madonna delle Virtù and Porta Pistoia. During this part of the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the city’s ancient walls and gates. Finally, the tour will come to a close at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city.

Booking Information

To book the Sassi di Matera Guided Tour and experience this amazing city for yourself, you can book your tour online. The tour is offered by GetYourGuide, a third-party company, and you can book the tour using the following link: book the tour here. The price of the tour is affordable and includes the services of a professional tour guide who will make your experience unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

The Sassi di Matera Guided Tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city of Matera. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the city, and get to explore the unique and beautiful structures that define it. From ancient rock churches to panoramic views of the city, this tour will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ About the City of Matera

Matera is a beautiful city located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy. Known for its ancient cave dwellings, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. If you are planning a trip to Matera, Italy, you may have some questions about the city. Here is a list of frequently asked questions about Matera.

1. What is the history of Matera?

Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back to the Paleolithic era. The city is known for its cave dwellings, which were first inhabited by humans over 9,000 years ago. The city has a complex history, with periods of prosperity and decline. However, the city has undergone a renaissance in recent years and has become a popular tourist destination.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Matera?

Matera has many must-visit attractions for tourists. Some of the most popular include:

• The Sassi di Matera – ancient cave dwellings that have been meticulously restored and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Piazza Vittorio Veneto – the main square of Matera, located in the heart of the city
• The Cathedral of Matera – a beautiful 13th-century cathedral located in the historic center of the city
• The Tramontano Castle – a medieval castle that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside
• The Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario – a traditional cave dwelling that has been preserved to give visitors an idea of what life was like in Matera in the past.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Matera?

The best time of year to visit Matera is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild during these seasons, and there are fewer tourists. Summers in Matera can be very hot, with temperatures often reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter can be cold and rainy, but it is still a good time to visit if you dress appropriately.

4. What is the food like in Matera?

The food in Matera is traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The local cuisine is based on simple, high-quality ingredients such as fresh vegetables, pasta, and seafood. Some of the most popular dishes in Matera include orecchiette with turnip greens, pasta with tomato sauce and pork, and roasted lamb. There are also many local wines to try, such as Aglianico del Vulture and Primitivo.

5. How do I get to Matera?

The closest airport to Matera is Bari Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away. From Bari, you can take a train to Matera or rent a car and drive. Matera is also accessible by train from other cities in Italy, such as Naples and Rome.

6. Where should I stay in Matera?

There are many great places to stay in Matera, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in are the Sassi, the historic center of the city, and the Isola, a more modern area with shops, restaurants, and bars. Some recommended hotels include the Hotel San Giovanni Vecchio, the Hotel Sant’Angelo, and the Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita.

7. Are there any festivals or events in Matera?

Yes, there are several festivals and events that take place in Matera throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:

• The Matera Jazz Festival – a week-long festival that celebrates the best in jazz music
• The Infiorata di Matera – a festival that takes place in June, where the streets are decorated with flower petals in beautiful designs
• The Matera Balloon Festival – a festival where colorful hot air balloons fill the skies above Matera in October

8. What should I know about the culture in Matera?

Matera has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. The city’s history, art, architecture, and cuisine are all influenced by its many different cultures and civilizations. The people of Matera are proud of their heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn about the city’s traditions and customs. Some tips for visitors include dressing modestly, respecting local customs, and learning a few words of Italian.

Book Your Tour Now

Matera is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Whether you are interested in ancient history, art, architecture, or just want to soak up the Mediterranean sun, Matera has something for everyone. With this FAQ, we hope we’ve answered some of your questions about visiting the city. Remember to use appropriate HTML tags for headings and structures such as numbered lists and tables to make the content easier to scan and read.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Matera

Matera, a city located in the Southern Italian region of Basilicata, attracts thousands of tourists every year. Well-known for its ancient caves, stunning architecture, and rich culture, Matera has something to offer for every type of tourist. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, there are plenty of things to see and do in Matera. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Matera.

Explore The Sassi District

One of the main attractions in Matera is the Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sassi district is made up of ancient cave dwellings that date back to the Paleolithic era. Walking through the narrow and winding streets in the Sassi district gives you a glimpse of the traditional way of life in Matera. You can explore the decorated cave churches that are built into the rocks or hop into a cave house that is now transformed into a museum to learn more about the life of locals in the past.

Visit The Matera Cathedral

The Matera Cathedral is another must-visit attraction in Matera. Located in the heart of the city, the cathedral is built in the Romanesque style and has intricate architectural details. Inside the cathedral, you can find impressive frescoes, elegant sculptures, and stunning mosaics on the floors. The cathedral also houses the Crypt of the Original Sin, a famous underground church decorated with frescoes depicting the Bible’s creation story.

Indulge in The Local Cuisine

Matera is a foodie’s paradise, and the city offers a variety of traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. Some of the local delicacies that you should try include homemade pasta such as orecchiette, a type of ear-shaped pasta, and cavatelli, a small shell-shaped pasta. You can also indulge in the local bread such as Matera bread that is baked in a wood-fired oven or taste the traditional dish of meat cooked with peppers called peperoni cruschi.

Visit The Museum Of Contemporary Sculpture Matera

If you’re an art lover, then you must visit the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera. The museum is located in the Palazzo Pomarici-Santomasi, a historic building in Matera. The museum displays a collection of contemporary sculptures by Italian and international artists such as Eduardo Chillida and Arnaldo Pomodoro. The collection is spread over several floors, and you can explore unique pieces of art that are often thought-provoking.

Explore The Park Of The Rupestrian Churches

The Park of the Rupestrian Churches is a natural park located just a few kilometers outside of Matera. The park is home to several caves that have been turned into churches and chapels, each with its unique history and architecture. Exploring the park is a unique experience as it takes you through the ancient history of the region. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the summer months.

Take a Trip to Murgia National Park

If you’re interested in outdoor adventures, then you should take a trip to the Murgia National Park, which is located near Matera. The park covers an area of around 6700 hectares and is home to some unique flora and fauna. There are several trails that you can explore, or you can go on a guided tour to have a more immersive experience. The park is also an excellent spot for bird watching, and you can spot birds such as the Griffon Vulture, the Peregrine Falcon, and the Golden Eagle.

Book Your Tour Now

Matera is a hidden gem located in the heart of Italy, and it’s one that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. The city has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to art enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and foodies. By following the tips in this guide, you can plan your trip to Matera and make the most of your time there. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, explore the ancient caves, visit the museums and art galleries, and take in the stunning natural beauty of Matera.