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Matera: Explore the Ancient Sassi Cave Dwellings

, Cittadimatera1, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: , Cittadimatera1, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Matera? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Matera.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to South Italy Calabria and Basilicata, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to South Italy Calabria and Basilicata here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Matera offers a unique glimpse into the past with its ancient cave dwellings and rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can explore its labyrinthine streets and marvel at the blend of ancient and medieval architecture. The city's history is deeply intertwined with its geography, offering a distinctive experience that combines natural beauty with human ingenuity. Matera's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous festivals and events that celebrate its heritage.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Cathedral of Matera: ⭐ ⭐ Situated on the highest point of the city, the Cathedral of Matera, dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the designation of the Madonna della Bruna and to Saint Eustace, is a Romanesque architectural masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. Its interior houses beautiful frescoes and a stunning wooden choir. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Sassi and the Murgia plateau beyond, making it a must-visit for its historical and cultural significance as well as its scenic beauty. Distance in km: 0.56
2. MUSMA Museum: ⭐ The MUSMA Museum, located in the heart of the Sassi, is one of the most unusual and fascinating museums in Italy, dedicated entirely to contemporary sculpture. Housed in historic cave dwellings, it integrates the art with the unique architectural context of Matera, offering a unique cultural experience where the setting is as compelling as the artworks themselves. Distance in km: 0.66
3. Church of San Pietro Caveoso: ⭐ Overlooking the canyon of the Gravina River, the Church of San Pietro Caveoso is emblematic of Matera's religious heritage. Dating back to the 13th century, this church is not only significant for its architectural beauty but also for its location on the edge of one of the Sassi, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its historical and cultural value, combined with its scenic location, makes it a must-see for visitors. Distance in km: 0.7
4. The Sassi di Matera, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone, inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Matera's Sassi offer a unique glimpse into human settlement and architecture over the ages. Distance in km: 0.72
5. Belvedere di Murgia Timone: Offering one of the most iconic views of Matera and the Sassi, the Belvedere di Murgia Timone is a viewpoint located across the canyon from the city. It is accessible by a short hike and provides breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of Matera from an extraordinary vantage point. Distance in km: 1.17
6. Gravina in Matera: ⭐ The Gravina in Matera is a deep limestone gorge that cuts through the landscape around Matera. It is not only of geological interest but also home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as ancient cave churches carved into its sides. Exploring the Gravina offers a unique adventure into the natural and historical landscape that has shaped Matera and its culture. Distance in km: 2.7
7. Murgia Materana Park: ⭐ Adjacent to the Sassi, the Murgia Materana Park is a vast natural and archaeological park that offers stunning landscapes, ancient rock churches, and prehistoric caves. It's a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The park provides a striking contrast to the urban structure of Matera, showcasing the diverse natural environment that surrounds the city. Distance in km: 6.38
8. The Ghost Town of Craco: ⭐ An abandoned medieval town that offers an eerie yet fascinating experience. Its desolate beauty and unique atmosphere have made it a popular filming location. Distance in km: 34.96
9. Rabatana of Tursi: ⭐ ⭐ An ancient abandoned village with Arab origins, offering a fascinating insight into the historical layers and cultural influences in Basilicata. Distance in km: 47.51
10. Pietrapertosa: ⭐ Another stunning village in the Dolomiti Lucane, offering dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and the unique experience of the Volo dell'Angelo zip-line connecting with Castelmezzano. Distance in km: 48.63
11. The Dolomiti Lucane: A mountain range in Basilicata, offering spectacular natural landscapes, adventure sports, and the unique stone villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa. Distance in km: 48.73
12. Castelmezzano: ⭐ ⭐ A picturesque village nestled in the Dolomiti Lucane, known for its stunning beauty, ancient homes, and the thrilling Volo dell'Angelo zip-line experience. Distance in km: 49.68

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Matera offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. The city is known for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through its historic streets, take in the breathtaking views, and experience a slower pace of life that encourages unwinding and reflection.

1. Parco della Murgia Materana: A vast natural park with stunning views of the Matera landscape.

Parco della Murgia Materana is a protected natural area that offers breathtaking views of the rocky landscape surrounding Matera. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through ancient caves, rock churches, and unique flora and fauna. The park is perfect for nature lovers and those interested in history, as it showcases the prehistoric and medieval heritage of the region.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
2. Giardino di Palazzo Lanfranchi: A serene garden located within a historic palace in Matera.

The Giardino di Palazzo Lanfranchi is a beautiful garden situated within the grounds of the historic Palazzo Lanfranchi, which now houses the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata. This garden offers a peaceful retreat with its well-maintained lawns and shaded areas, providing a perfect spot for relaxation after exploring the museum.

Type: garden | Fee: free
3. Giardino del Castello Tramontano: A public garden surrounding the historic Tramontano Castle.

Giardino del Castello Tramontano is a public garden that encircles the Tramontano Castle, an unfinished 16th-century fortress. The garden offers a peaceful environment with panoramic views of the city and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy leisurely walks or picnics. The castle, though not open to the public, adds a historical charm to the garden.

Type: garden | Fee: free
4. Bosco di Lucignano: A tranquil forested area ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Bosco di Lucignano is a lush forested area located a short drive from Matera. It offers a network of trails that are perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Basilicata region. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Type: green_area | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Info Point Tour Matera

Tourist information center

Address: Via Duomo, 1, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
2. Matera Informazioni Turistiche Città dei Sassi

Tourist information center

Address: Via Antonio Passarelli, 50, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
3. CENTRO INFORMAZIONI E ACCOGLIENZA TURISTICA MATERA

Tourist information center

Address: Contrada Scattolino, snc, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
4. Martulli Viaggi - DMC

Tourist information center

Address: Via Alessandro Volta, 3/5, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
5. Infopoint Fondazione Sassi

Tourist information center

Address: Piazzetta San Biagio, 1, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
6. Info Point Apt Basilicata Matera

Tourist information center

Address: Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 39, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
7. OLTRE L’ARTE Società Cooperativa a r.l.

Tourist information center

Address: Via Lanera, 11, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
8. Tourpass Matera - Biglietto Unico per la Città dei Sassi

Tourist information center

Address: Via Bradano, 45, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
9. Matera Welcome

Tourist information center

Address: Viale Aldo Moro, 32, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
10. Matera Guide

Tourist information center

Address: Via Antonio Passarelli, 50, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
11. Nuovi Amici Dei Sassi

Tourist information center

Address: Piazza del Sedile, 20, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
12. Chiesa Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi

Tourist information center

Address: 75100 Matera, Province of Matera, Italy

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Matera?

Matera is a city known for its ancient cave dwellings and historic charm, making walking a popular way to explore its narrow streets and alleys. The city center is compact, allowing visitors to easily navigate on foot and soak in the unique atmosphere. Public transportation options such as buses are available for those looking to travel beyond the central area, while cycling can be an enjoyable way to explore the surrounding landscapes.

In Matera, the central area, particularly the Sassi districts, is largely pedestrianized, providing a pleasant walking experience. For public transport, the local bus service, operated by Miccolis, connects various parts of the city and nearby towns. There is no metro system, but buses are frequent and reliable. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available, so taxis or local ride services are alternatives. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are available from shops like MateraBike, offering both traditional and electric bikes. It's advisable to check the opening hours and availability in advance. Walking tours are also a great way to learn about the city's history and culture, with many guided options available. When cycling, be mindful of the hilly terrain and cobblestone streets, which can be challenging in some areas.