Tour in the Sassi of Matera
Discover the oldest city in the world
The Sassi of Matera tell a 9,000-year history through a labyrinth of alleys, stairways and rock dwellings. To fully understand the complexity and beauty of this unique place in the world, we recommend that you rely on expert guides who will be able to reveal the secrets and stories hidden behind every stone.
(These are examples of guided tours that could be organized with guides)
Classic tour of the Sassi – Barisano and Caveoso
Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy/Medium
The most complete tour for a first discovery of Matera, which will take you through the two main districts:
- Sasso Barisano – The largest district, facing Bari, characterized by a greater presence of restored buildings, stately homes from the 17th and 18th centuries and decorated facades
- Sasso Caveoso – The oldest and wildest district, which preserves the original appearance of the rock dwellings with the characteristic “lamie” (vaulted roofs)
- Civita – The rocky spur that divides the two Sassi, where the majestic Romanesque Cathedral stands
What typically includes:
- Guided walk through alleys, stairways and neighborhoods
- Visit inside one authentic cave house with original furnishings
- Entrance to one frescoed rock church (typically Sant'Antonio Abate or Madonna de Idris)
- Explanation of the water collection system in the cisterns dug into the rock
- Breathtaking views from the most evocative viewpoints
- Special meeting with a local inhabitant who shares authentic stories of life in the Sassi
This information is purely indicative, agree with the tour guide on the details of the program.
In-depth tour of Sasso Barisano
Duration: 1.5-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Perfetto per chi soggiorna alle Dimore dei Mercanti e vuole esplorare a fondo il proprio quartiere:
- Church of Sant'Agostino with adjoining crypt of San Giuliano
- Rock church of San Pietro Barisano – large church carved into the rock
- Casa Cava – the only theater/conference center in the world housed in a 17th-18th century hypogeum
- Underground passages and cisterns for water collection
- Via Fiorentini and Via D'Addozio with historic buildings and characteristic neighborhoods
- Belvedere with panoramic view of the Cathedral
This information is purely indicative, agree with the tour guide on the details of the program.
Thematic tour “Life in the Sassi”
Duration: 2-2.5 hours | Difficulty: Average
An anthropological journey to understand how people lived in the Sassi until the 1950s:
- In-depth visit to a cave house with explanation of man-animal coexistence
- Water management system: cisterns, divers and drains
- Social organization in neighborhoods (communal courtyards)
- Urban evolution from the Middle Ages to the abandonment of the 1950s-1970s
- Photographic testimonies and stories of forced displacement
- Recovery and rebirth: from "national shame" to UNESCO heritage
This information is purely indicative, agree with the tour guide on the details of the program.
Evening tour “Matera by night”
Duration: 1.5-2 hours | Hours: After sunset
A magical experience when the Sassi light up and the atmosphere becomes even more evocative:
- Walk at sunset with spectacular plays of light
- The Sassi illuminated by expert lights that bring out the rock architecture
- Intimate and silent atmosphere away from the daytime crowds
- Panoramic points for unforgettable night photographs
- Stop at a characteristic cave wine bar (optional)
This information is purely indicative, agree with the tour guide on the details of the program.
Personalized private tour
Duration: Flexible (2-4 hours) | Difficulty: Customizable
- Itinerary tailor-made based on your interests
- Visit pace adapted to your needs (ideal for families, photographers, history buffs)
- Possibility to focus on specific aspects (architecture, religion, cinema, botany)
- Flexible hours and guaranteed departures also for couples
This information is purely indicative, agree with the tour guide on the details of the program.
Practical information for tours
Advice:
- Footwear: comfortable shoes with non-slip soles (slippery floors and steps can be dangerous)
- Clothing: in layers, the temperature in the caves is constant (15-18°C all year round)
- Waterfall: Always bring a bottle, especially in summer
- Camera: the Sassi are a paradise for photography enthusiasts
- Best time: early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) for the most suggestive lights and the best summer temperatures
Reservation:
Our staff will be happy to recommend the most knowledgeable tour guides and organize the tour that best suits your needs. Ask at reception for reservations and detailed information.