MATERA: CLASSICAL TOUR BEETWEEN SASSI AND HISTORICAL CENTER

Matera, a captivating city in southern Italy, offers a unique opportunity to discover its ancient neighborhoods through the "Matera: Classical Tour Between Sassi and Historical Center." This 2-hour guided exploration immerses visitors in the UNESCO-protected rock-carved architecture, showcasing a 13th-century frescoed rock church and an underground oil mill. As participants gain insights into local traditions and daily life, they’ll also enjoy scenic views and a delightful food tasting, making it a truly memorable cultural journey. With a focus on the city’s fascinating history and rich heritage, this tour promises to leave you wanting more.

Key Points

Explore Matera’s ancient Sassi neighborhoods and historical center on a 2-hour guided tour highlighting rock-carved architecture and daily life traditions.
Visit a 13th-century frescoed rock church, an underground oil mill, and a historic cellar to discover Matera’s UNESCO-protected cultural heritage.
Gain insights into Matera’s rich history and local flavors from expert guides, culminating in scenic views and a food tasting.
Suitable for adults and children, but not recommended for individuals with mobility, respiratory, or motion sickness issues.
Highly rated tour offering excellent value for money and a comfortable, immersive experience exploring Matera’s unique rock-carved architecture.

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Tour Overview

This tour overview provides an overview of the "Matera: Classical Tour Between Sassi and Historical Center" experience.

Priced from £12.62 per person, the 2-hour tour explores Matera’s ancient neighborhoods, including a guided visit to a 13th-century rock church, an underground oil mill, and a historic cellar.

With a focus on the city’s UNESCO-protected architecture and daily life traditions, the tour offers scenic views and food tastings.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour is available for adults, children, and infants, though not suitable for those with mobility, respiratory, or motion sickness issues.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at Via del Corso in the Sassi di Matera, the tour takes participants through the ancient neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s unique rock-carved architecture.

Visitors will explore a frescoed rock church, an underground oil mill, and a historic cellar, seeing the stories and traditions of daily life.

The tour culminates at Via San Biagio, 15, offering scenic views and a food tasting experience.

The key highlights include a guided tour of Matera’s UNESCO World Heritage site, with expert guides providing insights into the city’s rich history and culture.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an official guide who leads participants through the ancient neighborhoods, providing insights and stories about the city’s rich history and culture.

Along With the knowledgeable guide, the tour includes:

Access to a 13th-century rock church, where visitors can admire the intricate frescoes and discover the unique architecture.
Exploration of an underground oil mill, offering a glimpse into the traditional methods used to produce olive oil.
A tour of a historic cellar, allowing participants to enjoy the local winemaking heritage.

These inclusions provide a comprehensive experience, showcasing Matera’s UNESCO-recognized rock-carved architecture and the traditions that have shaped the city over centuries.

Participant Information

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, respiratory issues, or motion sickness.

It’s designed for adults aged 18 to 99 and children between 6 and 17. Infants 5 and under are also welcome.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the tour involves exploring the ancient neighborhoods of Matera’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

Baby strollers and carriages aren’t allowed.

The unique rock-carved architecture and immersive experience showcasing the city’s traditions and daily life make this tour a must-do for those able to participate comfortably.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Based on the feedback and ratings, this tour of Matera’s UNESCO World Heritage site receives overwhelmingly positive reviews.

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, guests praise the tour for its excellent value for money.

Key highlights include:

Passionate and knowledgeable guides who bring the history and traditions of Matera to life
A comfortable and immersive experience exploring the unique rock-carved architecture
Welcoming staff who ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour.

Prospective participants can book with confidence, as this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the enchanting wonders of Matera.

Meeting Point and Preparation

Participants should arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time at the BPER BANK located on Via del Corso, the designated meeting point for this classical tour of Matera.

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as the tour involves walking through Matera’s ancient neighborhoods and exploring underground sites.

Baby strollers and carriages aren’t allowed, so those traveling with young children should plan accordingly.

The tour begins promptly, so it’s important to arrive on time.

With these simple preparations, participants can look forward to an immersive and enjoyable exploration of Matera’s UNESCO-listed historic center and its unique rock-carved architecture.

Exploring the Sassi and Historical Center

After arriving at the designated meeting point, the tour guide leads participants on a captivating journey through Matera’s ancient Sassi neighborhoods and historical center.

The tour explores:

A frescoed rock church, where visitors marvel at the intricate religious artwork adorning the walls.
An underground oil mill, offering a glimpse into the city’s traditional agricultural practices.
A historic cellar, where guests savor the local flavors and learn about Matera’s winemaking heritage.

Throughout the experience, the expert guide shares stories of daily life and traditions, immersing participants in the rich cultural tapestry of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Discovering the Rock-Carved Architecture

Weaving through Matera’s captivating alleys, the tour guide leads visitors on a captivating exploration of the city’s iconic rock-carved architecture.

The journey begins at a frescoed rock church, where the guide unveils the intricate details and historical significance of this ancient sacred space.

Next, visitors venture underground, discovering the remnants of a once-thriving oil mill, now a testament to Matera’s industrial past.

The tour culminates in an exploration of a historic cellar, where the guide shares stories of the city’s winemaking traditions.

Throughout the experience, visitors are treated to scenic vistas and opportunities to savor the flavors of the region, seeing Matera’s rich cultural heritage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, respiratory issues, or motion sickness, and strollers and carriages are also not permitted.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Available In?

The tour guides are available in English, Italian, and other major European languages. They provide an informative and engaging experience for participants from various backgrounds to explore the unique architecture and culture of Matera.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food Tasting?

The tour does not mention any specific dietary restrictions for the food tasting. However, it’s always best to notify the tour operator in advance if you have any special dietary needs or preferences.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are public restrooms available along the tour route. The guide will point out their locations during the tour, allowing participants to use the facilities as needed throughout the 2-hour experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit specific interests. Guests can request to focus on certain aspects, such as architecture, history, or food, by communicating their preferences to the guide prior to the tour.

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Recap

This captivating tour of Matera’s UNESCO-protected Sassi neighborhoods and historic center offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will marvel at the ancient rock-carved architecture, including a 13th-century frescoed church and underground oil mill. With insights into local traditions and a delightful food tasting, it’s a memorable journey showcasing Matera’s rich heritage and scenic beauty.