Matera: Sassi Tour and Exclusive Underground Site

The historic city of Matera, situated in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, has captivated visitors for centuries with its remarkable Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Sassi Tour offers an in-depth exploration of this unique urban landscape, guiding visitors through the maze of ancient cave dwellings and rock churches. But the real gem of this experience lies in the exclusive access to an expansive underground network, revealing the city’s hidden past and the resilience of its inhabitants. Prepare to be immersed in a world unlike any other.

Key Points

• The Sassi di Matera tour is a 2-hour guided experience exploring the UNESCO-listed ancient cave dwellings and rock churches of this historic Italian city.
• The tour includes visits to an exclusive 500 m² underground site with water tanks, wine cellars, and silos, providing insights into Matera’s historical infrastructure.
• Knowledgeable local guides lead the small group tour, showcasing the remarkable architecture, history, and cultural significance of the Sassi di Matera.
• Participants can discover hidden churches, wine cellars, and silos, learning about the ingenuity and resilience of Matera’s inhabitants.
• Matera’s Sassi neighborhoods have gained recognition as popular filming locations for historical dramas and post-apocalyptic thrillers, contributing to the city’s cinematic appeal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The "Matera: Sassi Tour and Exclusive Underground Site" offers a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993.

This 2-hour tour, limited to small groups of up to 15 people, provides an immersive experience through the ancient rock dwellings and churches.

Led by local licensed guides, the tour includes visits to an exclusive underground site spanning 500 m² and featuring water tanks, wine cellars, and silos.

Participants can expect to learn about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso districts through engaging storytelling.

Exploring the Sassi Di Matera

Visitors embarking on the Sassi Tour are immersed in the captivating labyrinth of the Sassi di Matera, an ancient network of cave dwellings and rock churches that have long defined the city’s unique landscape.

Guides lead guests through the historic Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso quarters, showcasing the remarkable architecture and cultural heritage of these UNESCO-protected structures.

Along the way, travelers discover hidden churches, wine cellars, and silos, gaining a deeper understanding of the ingenuity and resilience of Matera’s inhabitants over the centuries.

The exclusive underground site further unveils the city’s subterranean wonders, offering a rare glimpse into its storied past.

Exclusive Underground Site

An exclusive underground site spanning 500 square meters captivates visitors on the Sassi Tour, offering a rare glimpse into Matera’s storied subterranean past.

Beneath the surface, the complex features a maze of water tanks, wine cellars, and silos, providing insights into the city’s historical infrastructure and daily life.

Beneath the surface, a maze of water tanks, wine cellars, and silos reveals Matera’s historical infrastructure and daily life.

Guided by a local expert, guests explore these hidden chambers and learn about the ingenuity of Matera’s residents who adapted to the region’s challenging terrain.

This exclusive access offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich heritage, complementing the aboveground exploration of the Sassi neighborhoods.

Rock Churches and Cave Dwellings

Nestled amidst the iconic Sassi di Matera, the rock churches and cave dwellings stand as timeless testaments to the ingenuity and resilience of the city’s inhabitants.

These ancient structures, carved directly into the rock, offer a glimpse into the intricate lives of the Matera’s past inhabitants. From simple cave homes to elaborate rock-cut churches, each structure is a masterpiece of subterranean architecture.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of interconnected spaces, marveling at the skill and tenacity of the Materans who carved out a livelihood from the harsh, rugged landscape.

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Movie Locations in Matera

Due to its unique and captivating landscape, Matera has long served as a popular filming location for both domestic and international productions.

The city’s ancient Sassi neighborhoods have provided the backdrop for a variety of films, from historical dramas to post-apocalyptic thrillers.

Matera’s ancient Sassi neighborhoods have served as the backdrop for a range of films, from historical dramas to post-apocalyptic thrillers.

Some notable examples include:

• Mel Gibson’s "The Passion of the Christ" (2004)

• Pier Paolo Pasolini’s "The Gospel According to St. Matthew" (1964)

• Coppola’s "The Godfather Part II" (1974)

• Zeffirelli’s "Jesus of Nazareth" (1977)

• Sorrentino’s "The Great Beauty" (2013)

The Sassi’s timeless, otherworldly aesthetic has made Matera a cinematic gem, captivating audiences and filmmakers alike.

Storytelling by the Local Guide

The local guide’s storytelling plays a central role in bringing the history and culture of Matera to life for tour participants.

Equipped with extensive knowledge and a passion for their city, the guides captivate visitors with tales of the Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings that dot the landscape.

From the intricate network of underground structures to the symbolic significance of the rock churches, the guides weave a narrative that illuminates Matera’s rich heritage.

Their vivid descriptions and engaging anecdotes transform the tour into an immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Included Features and Participant Information

As part of the Matera: Sassi Tour and Exclusive Underground Site experience, visitors are provided with a local licensed tourist guide who leads them through the city’s remarkable Sassi and the exclusive underground site.

The tour includes:

The tour includes access to an exclusive 500 m² underground site featuring water tanks, wine cellars, and silos.

• Access to an exclusive 500 m² underground site featuring water tanks, wine cellars, and silos

• Entry tickets to selected rock churches in the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Accessibility restrictions, with the tour not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or the visually impaired

• Recommendations to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, while high-heeled shoes, baby strollers, large bags, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed.

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Visitors who have experienced the Matera: Sassi Tour and Exclusive Underground Site have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 13 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the expertise and storytelling abilities of the local licensed guides, such as Nicola and Antonio, who provide unique insights into the city’s history and cultural heritage.

The exclusive underground site, featuring water tanks, wine cellars, and silos, is a particular highlight, offering a deeper understanding of Matera’s fascinating past.

Ask Away

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. According to the participant information, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the underground site and the terrain of the Sassi di Matera.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are generally not allowed on the tour. The tour is designed for a small group experience and the underground sites may not be suitable or safe for pets. Participants are advised to leave their pets at home.

Will We Get to Taste Any Local Cuisine?

The tour does not include any tasting of local cuisine. The focus is on exploring the historical underground sites and learning about the city’s architecture and culture from the local guide. Food and drinks are not provided as part of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration cannot be extended, as it is a fixed 2-hour experience. The tour does not include any food or drink tasting options, focusing solely on exploring the historical sites and underground areas of Matera.

Can the Guide Accommodate Special Requests?

The guide may be able to accommodate special requests, such as adjusting the tour pace or focusing on particular areas of interest, depending on the group’s needs and the guide’s availability. However, it’s recommended to inquire directly with the tour operator about any customization options.

Final Words

The Matera Sassi Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich history and cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ancient cave dwellings, discover hidden underground wonders, and gain insights into the resilience of the local community. The tour’s combination of exclusive access and knowledgeable local guidance makes it a compelling experience for those seeking to uncover the cinematic charm of Matera.

You can check availability for your dates here: