Matera: Guided City Center Tour With Cave Churches & Houses

Matera’s Sassi district is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting an extraordinary history etched into its ancient rock-cut dwellings and cave churches. Visitors can uncover this unique heritage through a guided walking tour, exploring highlights like the Casa Grotta Sassi and the Church of Saint Mary of Idris. With flexible booking options and high customer ratings, this immersive experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into Matera’s rich past – a past that continues to intrigue and inspire all who venture there.

Key Points

• Guided 2-hour walking tour exploring the historic Sassi district of Matera, including rock-cut buildings, Byzantine frescoes, and a barbarian cemetery.
• Key stops on the tour: Casa Grotta Sassi, Church of Saint Mary of Idris, and Sasso Caveoso.
• Opportunity to learn about Matera’s unique history and architecture, including its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Exploration of an authentic representation of living conditions in the Sassi district at the Casa Grotta Sassi.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and high customer ratings for the tour and guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Matera, a historic city in southern Italy, offers visitors a guided walking tour of its captivating Sassi district and historical center.

The 2-hour tour is priced from $37.99 per person and operates twice daily in English at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM.

Matera’s captivating Sassi district is explored through a 2-hour guided walking tour offered twice daily at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM for $37.99 per person.

Highlights include exploring rock-cut buildings, Byzantine frescoes, and a barbarian cemetery. Key stops are Casa Grotta Sassi, Church of Saint Mary of Idris, and Sasso Caveoso.

The tour includes entry fees, an expert guide, and scenic views throughout.

Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes this an accessible way to discover Matera’s unique history and architecture.

Tour Itinerary Highlights

The guided walking tour allows visitors to explore the Sassi district and historical center of Matera.

Key stops include the Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera, where guests can step inside a traditional cave dwelling for 30 minutes.

Next, the tour visits the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, known for its Byzantine frescoes, for another 30 minutes.

The final stop is the Sasso Caveoso, a historic neighborhood, for an hour of exploration.

Throughout the tour, guests enjoy scenic views and learn about the rock-cut buildings, caves, and a barbarian cemetery that make Matera a unique destination.

Exploring the Sassi District

The guided walking tour’s exploration of the Sassi district takes visitors on a captivating journey through Matera’s historic heart.

Key highlights include:

• Stepping into the ancient rock-cut dwellings, known as the "Sassi", which have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era

• Marveling at the intricate Byzantine frescoes adorning the interiors of historic cave churches

• Wandering through the picturesque Sasso Caveoso, a natural amphitheater-like setting carved into the limestone cliffs

• Discovering the remnants of a barbarian cemetery, offering a glimpse into Matera’s rich and diverse past

The tour immerses visitors in the timeless atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing an authentic window into Matera’s remarkable history and architecture.

Visiting the Casa Grotta Sassi Di Matera

As visitors step inside the Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera, they’re immediately transported back in time, immersed in the authentic living conditions of the Sassi district’s cave dwellings. This preserved home offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the simple yet ingenious lifestyle of the area’s former residents. Visitors can explore the various rooms, each serving a specific purpose, and marvel at the clever utilization of the natural cave formations.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Main Room | Served as the central living space |

| Bedroom | Intimate sleeping quarters |

| Kitchen | Equipped with a wood-burning stove |

| Storage | Utilized natural cave alcoves |

The Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera provides a profound understanding of the Sassi district’s rich history and the resilience of its inhabitants.

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Discovering the Church of Saint Mary of Idris

Nestled within the winding alleys of the Sassi di Matera, the Church of Saint Mary of Idris stands as a testament to the region’s rich Byzantine heritage.

Nestled within the winding alleys of the Sassi di Matera, the Church of Saint Mary of Idris stands as a testament to the region’s rich Byzantine heritage.

This rock-cut church, dating back to the 8th century, features a striking facade and interior adorned with well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.

Visitors can expect to:

• Admire the church’s unique architectural design, carved directly into the rock

• Discover the intricate Byzantine frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings

• Learn about the church’s historical significance as a center of religious and cultural life

• Explore the surrounding Sasso Caveoso, one of the two main Sassi districts of Matera.

Wandering Through the Sasso Caveoso

After exploring the captivating Church of Saint Mary of Idris, visitors can now wander through the Sasso Caveoso, one of the two main Sassi districts of Matera.

This ancient cave-dwelling neighborhood showcases the city’s remarkable architectural heritage. Carved into the hillside, the Sasso Caveoso is a labyrinth of rock-cut houses, churches, and public spaces.

Guides lead visitors through the narrow alleys, highlighting the intricate facades, cave entrances, and dramatic vistas. Travelers can marvel at the barbarian cemetery and marvel at the ingenious use of the natural landscape to create this unique, historical neighborhood.

Admiring the Scenic Views

What truly captivates visitors on this guided tour are the breathtaking scenic views that unfold at nearly every turn.

As the group navigates the labyrinth of cave dwellings and rock-cut structures, they’re treated to:

• Panoramic vistas overlooking the ravine and surrounding hills

• Glimpses of the picturesque skyline, punctuated by church domes and bell towers

• Glimpses of the iconic Sassi district, with its distinctive stone buildings cascading down the hillside

• Vantage points that showcase the unique geological formations and natural landscapes of the region

These stunning views provide a visual feast, leaving visitors in awe of Matera’s exceptional beauty.

Booking and Customer Feedback

Booking for the guided city center tour in Matera is simple and flexible. Travelers can reserve their spots now and pay later, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Checking availability for specific dates and times is easy.

| Booking Information |

| — | — | — |

| Reserve Now & Pay Later | Cancel up to 24 Hours in Advance | Check Availability |

| Flexible Booking | Full Refund | Specific Dates & Times |

Customers have praised the tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 and a 5 out of 5 rating for the guide. The value for money is also highly regarded at 4.5 out of 5.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Travelers can book a private walking tour to explore Matera’s Sassi district and historical sites with a dedicated guide at a time that suits their schedule.

Can We Customize the Tour to Our Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visitors’ interests. While the standard itinerary covers key highlights, the tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the tour based on guests’ preferences and focus areas within the Sassi district.

What Should We Bring for the Walking Tour?

When going on the walking tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenic views. Plus, having some water on hand can help make the 2-hour experience more enjoyable.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any specific discounts for students or seniors. However, they do have flexible booking policies, allowing customers to reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can We Stop for a Meal or Coffee During the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary doesn’t include any stops for meals or coffee. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants located throughout the Sassi district that you can visit before or after the tour at your own expense.

The Wrap Up

This guided walking tour offers an unforgettable way to experience Matera’s historic Sassi district. Visitors can explore ancient rock-cut dwellings, discover stunning frescoes in cave churches, and admire scenic views – all while learning about the city’s rich UNESCO World Heritage history. With flexible booking options and high customer ratings, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Matera’s unique architectural and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: