Matera, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites travelers on a captivating journey through its unique Sassi neighborhoods. These ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches, carved into limestone cliffs, reflect the city’s rich history dating back to the Paleolithic era. Visitors can explore the stunning vistas, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old churches, as well as the Crypt of the Original Sin, a subterranean chapel featuring breathtaking frescoes. But the true essence of Matera lies in its local culinary delights, where savory dishes and sweet treats provide an authentic taste of the region’s traditions. With so much to discover, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems this remarkable city holds.
Key Points
- Explore the unique Sassi neighborhoods, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches carved into limestone cliffs.
- Visit the Crypt of the Original Sin, a subterranean chapel with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis.
- Indulge in the savory local specialties and sweet artisanal treats, with a 10% discount coupon at the MòVado Food & Drink.
- Enjoy a guided tour that highlights the captivating historical and architectural wonders of Matera, including the iconic Sassi districts and ancient cave dwellings.
- Receive an overnight stay in a bed and breakfast for two nights, along with guided tours, transfers, and entrance tickets to all the sites on the itinerary.
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Exploring the Sassi Neighborhoods
Visitors will discover the unique Sassi neighborhoods, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which consist of ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches carved directly into the limestone cliffs.
These maze-like neighborhoods reflect the city’s long and fascinating history, dating back to the Paleolithic era.
Winding through the Sassi, visitors will encounter stunning vistas, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old churches.
One highlight is the Sasso Barisano, known for its intricate cave dwellings and unique architectural features.
Nearby, the Sasso Caveoso offers a glimpse into the region’s past, with its network of cave homes, churches, and public spaces.
Exploring the Sassi is a captivating way to take in Matera’s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting the Crypt of the Original Sin
One of the highlights of the guided tour is a visit to the remarkable Crypt of the Original Sin, located just a short distance from the Sassi neighborhoods. This subterranean chapel features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich religious history.
| Fresco | Description |
|---|---|
| Creation of Adam | Depicts the divine act of creating the first man |
| Expulsion from Eden | Illustrates the banishment of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden |
| Sacrifice of Cain and Abel | Showcases the brothers’ different offerings to God |
| Flood of Noah | Portrays the story of the great deluge and the survival of Noah’s Ark |
| Tower of Babel | Represents the biblical account of the construction of the Tower of Babel |
Tasting Local Culinary Delights
After exploring the historical and religious wonders of Matera, travelers can indulge in the region’s renowned culinary delights.
From savory local specialties to sweet artisanal treats, the city offers a tantalizing taste of authentic Italian flavors.
One highlight is the opportunity to sample traditional dishes at a local eatery or family-run trattoria. Visitors can savor rustic pasta dishes, flavorful cheeses, and freshly baked breads.
For those with a sweet tooth, Matera’s pastry shops and gelateries tempt with decadent confections and creamy gelato.
The 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink allows travelers to further enjoy the region’s culinary culture through a tasting of typical products or a refreshing drink.
Guided Tour Highlights
The guided tour highlights Matera’s captivating historical and architectural wonders, guiding travelers through the city’s iconic Sassi districts and uncovering the stories behind its ancient cave dwellings.
Visitors will explore the Rupestrian Churches, masterpieces of Byzantine art carved directly into the rock, and the UNESCO-listed Sassi, the oldest continuously inhabited human settlements in the world.
The tour also includes a visit to the Crypt of the Original Sin, an underground chapel adorned with well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 8th century.
Along the way, travelers will gain insights into Matera’s rich cultural heritage and discover why this unique city has become a celebrated destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Accommodation and Transfers
The tour package includes an overnight stay in a bed and breakfast for two nights, allowing travelers to fully enjoy Matera’s captivating atmosphere.
The tour provides guided tours as per the program, ensuring visitors don’t miss out on the city’s highlights.
The package includes a transfer to the Crypt of the Original Sin, a renowned archaeological site.
Entrance tickets to all the sites on the itinerary are also covered, providing seamless access to the city’s rich heritage.
The tour also offers a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink, allowing travelers to savor the region’s typical products or enjoy a refreshing drink.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour package includes:
- An overnight stay in a bed and breakfast for two nights
- Guided tours as per the program
- A transfer to the Crypt of the Original Sin
- Entrance tickets to the sites on the itinerary
The package excludes:
- Meals and drinks where not specified
- Tips and personal expenses
Travelers will receive a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink for a tasting of typical products or a drink.
The tour:
- Starts at 10:30 am from the meeting point at the Martulli Viaggi Agency in Matera
- Ends back at the same location
Additional information:
- Confirmation is provided upon booking
- The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers will meet at the Martulli Viaggi Agency located on Via Alessandro Volta, 3 in Matera, Italy at 10:30 am to begin the tour. The meeting point is easy to find, as it’s near public transportation.
At the end of the tour, you will return to the same starting location.
The tour is a private experience, so only your group will participate.
Confirmation of the booking will be received at the time of reservation.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or other serious medical conditions.
Most travelers will be able to comfortably participate in this activity.
Additional Tour Information
Confirmation of the booking will be received at the time of reservation.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or other serious medical conditions, though most travelers can comfortably participate.
The tour meeting point is at the Martulli Viaggi Agency on Via Alessandro Volta, 3 in Matera, Italy, and the tour ends back at the same location.
The tour starts at 10:30 am.
Plus, the tour is a private activity, so only your group will participate.
The tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
The tour does not permit pets. The tour description states that it is "not wheelchair accessible", indicating that only human participants are allowed. Travelers should plan to leave their pets at home for this private tour of Matera.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation policy allows for full refunds on bookings canceled at least 24 hours prior to the tour’s start time. Bookings canceled within 24 hours are subject to a 50% cancellation fee.
Do I Need to Purchase Travel Insurance for This Tour?
The tour organizer does not require travelers to purchase travel insurance for this activity. However, it’s generally recommended to have travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances that could impact your trip.
Can I Extend My Stay in Matera After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Matera after the tour. The tour includes a 2-night/3-day stay, but you’re free to stay longer if you’d like to explore the city further on your own.
How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Tour?
The cost for the tour itself is covered, but you’ll need additional spending money for meals, drinks, and any personal expenses. Experts recommend bringing around $50-$100 per person for the 3-day tour to comfortably cover these extra costs.
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Recap
Matera’s Sassi neighborhoods, Crypt of the Original Sin, and local cuisine offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural traditions.
Guided tours provide an immersive experience, while accommodations and transfers ensure a seamless journey.
Whether exploring the ancient rock-cut dwellings or savoring regional delicacies, a visit to Matera promises an unforgettable journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.