ENGLISH TOUR IN THE SASSI OF MATERA/CAVE HOUSE+ROCK CHURCHES

The Sassi di Matera, an ancient cave-dwelling neighborhood in southern Italy, has captivated visitors for decades. Now, an English-language tour offers a chance to explore this unique heritage site. Delving into the history and architecture of the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, the tour promises an immersive experience. Guests will step inside a traditional cave house and a rock-hewn church, while gaining exclusive access to rarely seen cisterns and hypogea. With knowledgeable guides sharing their insights, this 1.5-hour adventure promises to be both enlightening and unforgettable. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse into Italy’s past, this tour may just be the perfect way to discover the Sassi di Matera.

Key Points

• Explore the unique Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods of the Sassi of Matera on an English-guided 1.5-hour tour.
• Visit a fully frescoed rock church and access exclusive hypogea areas typically closed to the public.
• Discover historic palaces, squares, and churches, and enjoy panoramic views from the Matera Cathedral.
• Led by knowledgeable, regionally authorized guides with access to filming locations from famous movies.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior provides confidence in booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The English Tour in the Sassi of Matera, also known as the Cave House + Rock Churches tour, offers visitors a 1.5-hour exploration of Matera’s historic Sassi districts.

Priced from €75 per person, the tour is conducted in English and starts at the Karma Viaggi Travel Agency. Participants can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour highlights include visiting rock churches, ancient water cisterns, and exclusive hypogea areas. Guides provide knowledgeable insights into the city’s religious and cultural history, as well as its use as a filming location.

Both adults and children are welcome, and travelers can reserve and pay later to keep their plans flexible.

Price and Duration

The English Tour in the Sassi of Matera is priced from €75 per person and lasts 1.5 hours.

This guided tour allows visitors to explore the unique Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods, known for their rock architecture and limestone dwellings.

The tour includes access to exclusive areas, such as hypogea, as well as visits to a fully frescoed rock church and ancient water cisterns.

Participants can also enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi from the Matera Cathedral and discover the city’s religious and cultural history through its historic palaces, charming squares, and churches.

The tour is conducted in English by knowledgeable, regionally authorized guides.

Meeting Point and Cancellation Policy

The meeting point for the English Tour in the Sassi of Matera is Karma Viaggi Travel Agency, located inside Restaurant La Galleria on Via San Biagio, 15.

Guests can easily find the starting point of this 1.5-hour guided tour.

The tour also offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This provides customers with the confidence to book their tour without worrying about unexpected changes in their travel plans.

The meeting point’s convenient location and the generous cancellation policy make this tour an attractive option for visitors exploring the historic Sassi of Matera.

Highlights of the Tour

This guided tour allows visitors to explore the unique Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods, known for their striking rock architecture and historic limestone dwellings. Highlights include visiting a fully frescoed rock church, ancient water cisterns, and hypogea – exclusive areas usually closed to the public. Visitors can also take in panoramic views of the Sassi from Matera Cathedral and discover historic palaces, charming squares, and churches that tell the city’s religious and cultural story. On top of that, the tour showcases movie locations from films like "The Passion of the Christ" and "007 NO TIME TO DIE."

Tour Highlights
Explore Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano
Visit a fully frescoed rock church and ancient water cisterns
Access unique areas usually closed to the public, including hypogea
View Matera Cathedral for panoramic views of the Sassi
Discover historic palaces, charming squares, and churches

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Guided Tour Experience

Led by knowledgeable, regionally authorized guides, the tour starts at the Sassi di Matera, the ancient stone neighborhoods at the heart of the city.

The itinerary includes:

1. Exploring a cave house and the Matera Underground, offering a glimpse into the city’s historic living spaces and water systems.

2. Visiting a fully frescoed rock church, showcasing the region’s rich religious heritage.

3. Accessing unique, usually closed-off areas like hypogea, providing an exclusive experience.

4. Concluding at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, offering panoramic views of the Sassi and the opportunity to discover historic palaces, squares, and churches.

Entrance fees, expert guidance, and access to these exclusive attractions are all included in the tour.

Visitor Information

Reserving the English Tour in the Sassi of Matera allows visitors to explore the city’s ancient stone neighborhoods with flexibility, as they can reserve now and pay later to keep their travel plans adaptable.

The tour caters to various age groups, including adults, children aged 11-17, and infants 10 and younger.

Participants can expect an immersive 1.5-hour experience led by knowledgeable, regionally authorized guides, who’ll provide access to exclusive areas and offer insights into the city’s religious and cultural history.

With a 5/5 rating from previous visitors, the tour is a popular choice for those seeking an authentic exploration of Matera’s unique Sassi architecture and movie locations.

Customer Feedback

Visitors have praised the English Tour in the Sassi of Matera, awarding it a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Reviewer Angela highlighted the guide’s extensive knowledge and local connections, which enhanced the experience despite challenging weather conditions.

Visitors appreciated the tour’s thorough exploration of both the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts, as well as the unique attractions, including:

1. A fully frescoed rock church
2. Ancient water cisterns
3. Exclusive access to hypogea
4. Panoramic views of the Sassi from the Matera Cathedral.

Exclusive Access Areas

One of the highlights of the English Tour in the Sassi of Matera is the exclusive access granted to areas typically closed off to the public. Visitors can explore unique hypogea, or underground spaces, that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Plus, the tour provides access to fully frescoed rock churches, showcasing the incredible artistry and craftsmanship of the past. This exclusive access allows guests to truly enjoy the Sassi’s captivating atmosphere and uncover hidden gems not readily available to the average tourist. The tour’s focus on exclusive areas enhances the overall experience, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of Matera’s remarkable architectural and cultural heritage.

Area	Description
Hypogea	Underground spaces typically closed to the public
Frescoed Rock Churches	Elaborate rock churches with stunning frescoes
Sasso Caveoso	Explore the unique rock architecture and limestone dwellings
Sasso Barisano	Discover the historic palaces, squares, and churches
Movie Locations	Gain access to filming locations used in famous movies

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the information provided, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. No restrictions are mentioned regarding outside food and beverages during the 1.5-hour walking experience.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not currently offer discounts for seniors or students. However, travelers may want to inquire about any available promotions or special pricing at the time of booking to see if any discounts apply.

How Difficult Is the Walking Required During the Tour?

The walking during the tour is generally moderate, with some uneven terrain and stairs through the cave houses and rock churches. Guests should wear comfortable shoes, but the pace is leisurely and allows for breaks.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?

The tour involves walking through the historic Sassi neighborhoods, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for the weather, as some of the sites are outdoors. No special equipment is required.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted on the tour, though visitors should be mindful of respecting any restrictions in areas like churches or restricted zones. The guide can provide guidance on when and where photography is allowed.

Recap

The English tour of the Sassi of Matera offers a captivating 1.5-hour experience, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a traditional cave house, fully frescoed rock churches, and exclusive access to ancient cisterns and hypogea, while knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the area’s history and architecture, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: