Ape Calessino Tour of the Sassi of Matera Standard

Exploring the ancient cave dwellings and rock-carved churches of Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi has never been easier than with the Ape Calessino Tour. This captivating, less than 1-hour experience aboard a private three-wheeled vehicle takes visitors through the Barisano and Caveoso districts, as well as the Civita neighborhood, showcasing the remarkable architecture and resilience of the Sassi inhabitants. With snacks and bottled water included, this 5-star rated tour offers a convenient and immersive way to discover the underground cavern network that has fascinated travelers for centuries. But the real question is: what secrets lie within the Sassi just waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• The Ape Calessino tour provides a private, less than 1-hour exploration of the UNESCO-listed Sassi districts of Barisano, Caveoso, and Civita in Matera.
• Highlights of the tour include centuries-old cave churches, dwellings, and an appreciation of the Sassi inhabitants’ resilience and ingenuity.
• The tour covers key Sassi sites such as Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, and the Duomo di Matera.
• The comfortable and authentic Calessino vehicle offers seamless access to the winding streets and alleyways of the Sassi neighborhoods.
• The tour includes complimentary snacks and bottled water, and has a 5-star rating from 116 reviews, highlighting its personalized and engaging nature.

Overview of the Ape Calessino Tour

The Ape Calessino tour of the Sassi of Matera offers travelers an up-close look at the UNESCO-listed cave churches and dwellings that comprise this historic Italian city.

The tour, which lasts less than an hour, takes visitors through the Barisano and Caveoso districts, as well as the Civita.

During the journey, passengers will be treated to snacks and bottled water as they explore these ancient structures in a private, three-wheeled vehicle known as an Ape Calessino.

With a 5-star rating from 116 reviews, this tour provides a unique and immersive way to experience the rich cultural heritage of Matera’s Sassi, all while enjoying the convenience of private transportation.

Highlights of the UNESCO-listed Sassi

Centuries-old cave churches and dwellings dot the UNESCO-listed Sassi of Matera, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The Barisano and Caveoso districts showcase the remarkable architecture and underground network of caverns that once housed entire communities.

Explore the Civita, a rocky plateau overlooking the two Sassi districts, and discover ancient cave churches with intricate frescoes and rock-cut architecture.

Wander through the winding alleyways, passing by charming residences and shops that have been meticulously restored. This immersive experience allows you to step back in time and appreciate the resilience and ingenuity of the Sassi’s inhabitants over the centuries.

Exploring the Barisano and Caveoso Districts

Visitors can explore the distinct characters of the Barisano and Caveoso districts, each showcasing the Sassi’s remarkable architectural heritage.

The Barisano is known for its cave churches, such as the Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano, featuring intricate frescoes and carvings.

The Caveoso district, on the other hand, is home to a network of interconnected cave dwellings, including:

• The Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a preserved cave home offering a glimpse into the traditional Sassi lifestyle.
• The Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, an ancient church carved into the rock.
• The Palombaro Lungo, an impressive underground cistern that once supplied water to the Sassi.
• The Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings.

Discovering the Civita Neighborhood

Perched atop the ravine, the Civita neighborhood offers a captivating glimpse into Matera’s storied past, where ancient dwellings and churches stand as testaments to the city’s rich heritage.

As part of the Ape Calessino tour, visitors can explore this enchanting district, marveling at the intricate network of stairs, alleyways, and structures carved into the rock.

From the iconic Duomo di Matera with its impressive Romanesque façade to the serene San Pietro Caveoso church, each nook and cranny unveils a new layer of Matera’s remarkable history.

The Civita’s timeless charm and well-preserved architecture make it a must-see highlight of the Sassi di Matera experience.

Private Transportation and Inclusions

Complementing the captivating exploration of the Sassi di Matera, the Ape Calessino tour includes private transportation, allowing guests to traverse the historic neighborhoods with ease.

Along the journey, visitors will enjoy complimentary snacks and bottled water, enhancing their immersive experience.

The tour’s private transportation, a charming blue-colored Calessino with a white canopy, provides:

1. A comfortable and authentic way to explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera.
2. Seamless access to the Barisano and Caveoso districts, as well as the Civita.
3. An opportunity to appreciate the unique architecture and winding streets of this ancient city.
4. A personalized and hassle-free sightseeing experience.

Meeting Point and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the Ape Calessino tour is located at Via San Francesco D’Assisi, Piazza San Francesco d’Assisi, in front of the hypogeums of Matera 2019. Guests will be picked up in a charming blue-colored Calessino with a white canopy at this designated spot. The vehicle’s vibrant color and classic design set the tone for the immersive experience ahead.

Meeting Point	Vehicle	Tour Duration
Via San Francesco D’Assisi, Piazza San Francesco d’Assisi	Blue Calessino with white canopy	Less than 1 hour
In front of the hypogeums of Matera 2019	Iconic Italian three-wheeled vehicle	Covers UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera

The Ape Calessino tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical Sassi di Matera in style, setting the stage for a memorable journey through this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tour Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Ape Calessino tour, with a stellar 5-star rating across 116 assessments. Past participants rave about the experience, highlighting several standout features:

The intimate, personalized nature of the tour, with a private Calessino to explore the captivating Sassi district.

The knowledgeable and engaging guide, who provides insightful commentary on the UNESCO-listed cave churches and dwellings.

The delightful inclusion of snacks and bottled water, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience.

The tour’s ability to efficiently cover the Barisano and Caveoso districts, as well as the historic Civita, in less than an hour.

With overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Ape Calessino tour is a must-do for visitors seeking an authentic and immersive experience in Matera’s renowned Sassi.

Cancellation Policy and Considerations

For the Ape Calessino tour of the Sassi di Matera, up to a full refund is available should travelers need to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance.

However, the tour is subject to weather conditions and requires a minimum number of participants. If the weather is unfavorable or there aren’t enough people signed up, the tour may be canceled.

In such cases, travelers will receive a full refund.

Flexibility is essential when booking this unique experience, as factors outside the operator’s control can impact the tour’s viability.

Understanding the cancellation policy and potential considerations ahead of time will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Ape Calessino adventure through the historic Sassi of Matera.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary or Duration?

The tour can be customized based on guest preferences. While the standard itinerary covers the main highlights, the duration and sites visited can be adjusted to suit individual interests. Guests should discuss any customization needs with the tour provider.

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements?

The tour has no age or physical fitness requirements. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages and abilities, as the Ape Calessino vehicles are easy to board and the tour covers mainly flat, walkable terrain in the Sassi of Matera.

What Is the Policy for Children or Infant Travelers?

The tour has no specific age or fitness requirements. Children and infants are welcome, but parents should note there’s no child car seat or stroller provided. Families should consider the child’s ability to enjoy the tour experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour does not offer any discounts or package deals. However, children under 5 years old can join the tour for free. There may be occasional promotional offers, so travelers should inquire with the tour operator for the latest information.

Can We Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to take photos and videos throughout the tour. The tour operator encourages guests to capture the stunning scenery and architecture of the Sassi of Matera during their experience.

Recap

The Ape Calessino Tour of the Sassi of Matera provides a convenient and immersive way to explore this UNESCO-listed historic site.

Covering the Barisano, Caveoso, and Civita neighborhoods, the tour showcases the remarkable architecture and resilience of the Sassi inhabitants.

With private transportation, snacks, and water, the tour earns a 5-star rating from over 100 reviews, making it a must-do for visitors to Matera.