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The 2 Best Local Experiences in Matera

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Discover the hidden beauty of Matera, Italy’s Southern gem that has recently gained global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its breathtaking views, cave dwellings, and ancient architecture, Matera boasts a unique charm that has captivated travelers for centuries. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie or simply seeking an adventure, Matera has something special in store for you. In this post, we will explore the best attractions and things to do in Matera, providing insider tips that will help you make the most of your visit. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you awestruck!

The 2 Best Local Experiences in Matera

  1. Matera Private Walking Tour
  2. Matera Sassi Di Matera Guided Tour

The 2 Best Local Experiences in Matera

1. Matera Private Walking Tour

Discover the story of a town carved into rocks and inhabited until the 20th century on a Matera Private Walking Tour. In the company of an expert local guide, visitors will explore the UNESCO site of Matera and discover two main districts carved into the rocks filled with cave-houses and rupestrian churches. The tour offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Murgia Materana Park and visits the highest point of the Sassi, where the cathedral is situated. It’s a unique opportunity to discover the 2019 European Capital of Culture in the company of an expert local guide, and enjoy the experience of walking through the Sassi. The tour includes a tourist.

2. Matera Sassi Di Matera Guided Tour

Discover Sassi di Matera on a guided tour starting from Piazza Vittorio Veneto. With an expert guide, explore the ancient districts of Sassi, including rock churches, piazzas, and various centuries-old structures. Admire panoramic views of the city from different angles, and visit outstanding historical buildings such as the Apulian-Romanesque Church of San Giovanni Battista and the hypogeum Casa Cava. In Sasso Barisano, visit the rock church of Sant’Antonio Abate, a remarkable example of the traditional culture of this unique city. Continue to Sasso Caveoso to see a typical Matera cave-house, and then pass by Via Madonna delle Virtù and Porta Pistoia. Finally, make a short stop at Piazza San. The tour guide will provide informative commentary throughout the tour.

Top Frequently Asked Questions About Matera

Matera, Italy, is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and charm. It’s UNESCO-listed as a World Heritage Site and for a good reason. Every year, thousands of tourists from around the world visit Matera to learn about its past and explore its stunning architecture. But before you plan your trip, you likely have a few questions to get the most out of your visit. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Matera to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. Where Is Matera Located?

Matera is located in the southern region of Italy, Basilicata. It’s about 66 km (41 mi) from the city of Bari, and about 231 km (143 mi) from Naples. Matera is situated on a steep hillside that overlooks the Gravina canyon.

2. How Do I Get to Matera?

The easiest way to get to Matera is by flying into Bari International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a train or bus to Matera. The travel time is around an hour by car and two to three hours by public transport.

3. What Is the Best Time to Visit Matera?

The best time to visit Matera is during the spring and fall seasons. The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists, making it a perfect time to explore the city. The summer months can be too hot for some visitors, and the city can be crowded as it’s the peak season.

4. What Are the Must-See Sights in Matera?

Matera has several must-see sights that you shouldn’t miss during your visit. These include:

  • The Sassi di Matera – the ancient cave dwellings that Matera is famous for
  • The Rupestrian Churches – a network of 150 cave churches
  • The Matera Cathedral – a beautiful cathedral in the heart of the city
  • The Palombaro Lungo – an ancient water cistern
  • The MUSMA – a museum of contemporary sculpture

5. Can I Stay in a Sasso?

Yes, you can stay in a Sasso, which is an ancient cave dwelling. Many of these caves have been transformed into beautiful hotels and guesthouses. These accommodations offer a unique experience and are perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Matera’s history.

6. What Is the Food Like in Matera?

The food in Matera is delicious and reflects the region’s history and traditions. Some of the local dishes that you have to try include:

  • Cavatelli with lamb ragu
  • Orecchiette with turnip greens and sausage
  • Pork sausages
  • Burrata cheese
  • Locally produced wines, such as Aglianico del Vulture

7. What Should I Wear in Matera?

Matera is a stylish city, and it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately. During the summer months, it can be extremely hot, so light and breathable clothing is recommended. During the fall and spring seasons, you should bring a light jacket or sweater as the weather can be unpredictable.

8. Can I Visit Matera in a Day?

While it’s possible to visit Matera in a day, we recommend spending at least two days in the city to fully explore and appreciate its beauty. It’s a small city, and you can easily walk around most of it, but there are many sights to see that will take up your time.

9. Is Matera Accessible for Visitors with Disabilities?

Unfortunately, Matera’s steep and irregular terrain makes it challenging for those with disabilities. However, the city has been making some efforts to improve its accessibility, such as installing ramps and elevators in some of the area’s main squares.

10. What Souvenirs Can I Buy in Matera?

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to take back home, there are plenty of options in Matera. You can buy local olive oil, wine, and other food-related products, as well as traditional handmade ceramics, lace, and textiles. Make sure to visit the local markets and shops to find the perfect souvenir to bring back.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Matera

Matera is a charming town nestled in the southern Italian region of Basilicata. It’s known for its historic cave dwellings, or sassi, that have been inhabited since prehistoric times. If you’re planning a trip to Matera, here is a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your time in this beautiful town.

1. Visit the Sassi

The Sassi of Matera is the most iconic attraction of the town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s not hard to see why. The Sassi is a network of cave dwellings, cave churches, and underground water cisterns dating as far back as the Palaeolithic era. To explore the Sassi, you can either take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour.

Self-guided tour

If you prefer to explore the Sassi on your own, here are some tips:

  1. Visit the Casa Noha museum – This museum provides visitors with a comprehensive introduction to Matera’s history and the Sassi.
  2. Explore the Sassi Barisano and Sassi Caveoso – These two districts are the main areas of the Sassi, and they offer different perspectives on Matera’s history and architecture.
  3. Visit the rock churches – The Sassi has several rock churches that are worth visiting, including the Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano and the Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù.
  4. Explore the underground caves – Matera has an extensive network of underground rock caves, and some of them are open to visitors.

Guided tour

A guided tour is an excellent way to learn about the history and culture of Matera. Here are some options:

  • Matera Walking Tour – This tour takes visitors to the most significant landmarks of Matera and provides a comprehensive overview of the town’s history and culture.
  • Guided Underground Tour – This tour takes visitors to the underground caves and water cisterns of Matera, providing an insight into the daily life of the ancient inhabitants of Matera.
  • Bike Tour – A bike tour is an excellent way to explore the countryside around Matera and learn about the local agriculture and food culture.

2. Taste the Local Food and Wine

Matera is known for its rich food culture, and there are plenty of delicious foods to try. Here are some local dishes that you should not miss:

  1. Pezzente – A local flatbread made from durum wheat semolina, water, and salt.
  2. Orecchiette – A type of pasta shaped like small ears, often served with a sauce made from turnip tops or tomato.
  3. Caciocavallo Podolico – A type of cheese made from the milk of the Podolica breed of cows that graze in the nearby mountains.
  4. Aglianico del Vulture – A full-bodied red wine made from the Aglianico grape grown on the slopes of Mount Vulture.

3. Visit the Castle

Matera has a fortress that dates back to the Norman period. The Castello Tramontano is located on a hill overlooking the town, and it offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. You can either take a guided tour or explore the castle on your own. The castle has a small museum and a collection of weapons and armour.

4. Attend a Festival

Matera is known for its vibrant festival culture. Here are some of the most popular festivals:

  • Festa della Bruna – A religious festival that celebrates the patron saint of Matera, Madonna della Bruna. It takes place on July 2.
  • Infiorata – A flower festival that takes place in June, where the streets of Matera are decorated with beautiful flower carpets.
  • Literary Festival – A festival that celebrates literature and takes place in September.

5. Explore the Park of Murgia Materana

The Park of Murgia Materana is a natural park located on the outskirts of Matera. It’s an excellent place for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The park is also home to the Gravina di Matera, a gorge that offers a stunning panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Book Your Tour Now

Matera is a fascinating town with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nature, Matera has something to offer. Use this guide to plan your trip, and you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this charming southern Italian town.
Valletta13

The 2 Best Local Experiences in Matera

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!