Discover the charming village of Rapolla, nestled in the heart of Basilicata, Italy. This captivating 1.5-hour private tour takes visitors on a journey through Rapolla’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. From the 13th-century cathedral to the panoramic views and the captivating hypogeal cellars, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into the region’s winemaking legacy, particularly the renowned Aglianico. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious to explore, this intimate tour promises to unveil the hidden gems of Rapolla and leave you eager to uncover more.
This experience made our list of the 13 Best Private Tours In Matera.
Key Points
- This 1.5-hour private tour explores the historic village of Rapolla in Basilicata, Italy, near the UNESCO site of Matera.
- Guests can discover the 13th-century cathedral, enjoy panoramic views, and explore the hypogeal cellars of the Parco Urbano delle Cantine.
- The tour highlights the region’s winemaking heritage, focusing on the Aglianico grape, and provides insights into traditional winemaking methods.
- Visitors can marvel at the Romanesque and Baroque architecture of historic buildings, including the 13th-century cathedral and churches.
- The tour accommodates groups of up to 54 people and can be booked conveniently online with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Overview of the Tour
The Rapolla Private Tour: Aglianico Wine Tour Near Matera is a 1.5-hour experience that allows visitors to explore one of the most beautiful villages in Basilicata, Italy.
This guided tour takes guests through the narrow streets of the historic center, where they’ll discover the 13th-century cathedral and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding valley.
Participants will also explore the hypogeal cellars that make up the Parco Urbano delle Cantine, an underground network used for wine conservation.
Along the way, they’ll see notable buildings and the remains of the city walls in the Piano Castle district.
With a maximum group size of 54 people, this private tour offers an intimate glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rapolla.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Matera.
Highlights of the Tour
Discovering one of the most beautiful villages in Basilicata is a highlight of this tour, as visitors explore the narrow streets of Rapolla’s historic center. Guests will visit the 13th-century cathedral and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding valley.
Exploring the hypogeal cellars that make up the Parco Urbano delle Cantine, an underground network used for wine conservation, also offers a unique glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour also includes:
- A visit to the churches of San Biagio, the Annunciation, and Santa Lucia
- Exploring the remains of the city walls and notable buildings in the Piano Castle district
- Discovering the cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta
- Learning about the historic cellars dug into volcanic tuff used for wine conservation.
Guided Tour of the Old Town
During the guided tour, visitors explore Rapolla’s captivating old town, winding through its narrow streets lined with historic buildings and architecture. The tour takes guests to the 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where they can admire the impressive façade and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding valley. Visitors also get to discover the Piano Castle district, home to the remains of the ancient city walls and other notable landmarks. As they stroll through the charming alleys, they’ll come across several churches, including San Biagio, the Annunciation, and Santa Lucia, showcasing the town’s rich religious heritage.
Destination | Highlight |
---|---|
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta | 13th-century façade, panoramic views |
Piano Castle District | Remains of ancient city walls, notable buildings |
Church of San Biagio | Historic religious site |
Church of the Annunciation | Historic religious site |
Church of Santa Lucia | Historic religious site |
Cathedral and Scenic Views
Visitors marvel at the impressive façade of the 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where they can enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding valley.
The ornate cathedral’s Romanesque design features intricate stone carvings and a grand bell tower.
Tourists delight in exploring the interior, which boasts an aisle of ancient columns and a stunning altar.
Admire the cathedral’s impressive architecture and ornate details.
Take in the breathtaking vistas from the cathedral’s elevated position.
Discover the history and significance of this important religious site.
Complement the cathedral visit with a stroll through the historic town center.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Urban Cellars Park
The highlight of the Rapolla Private Tour is exploring the urban cellars park, a unique network of underground wine cellars carved into the volcanic tuff that once formed the city’s defensive walls.
Visitors can wander through these historic cellars, which have been used for wine conservation for centuries. The park offers a glimpse into the region’s winemaking heritage, with the opportunity to learn about the traditional methods and technologies used to produce the renowned Aglianico wine.
As visitors explore the winding tunnels and cavernous spaces, they’ll be struck by the ambient temperature and humidity, perfectly suited for aging fine wines. This one-of-a-kind experience is a must-do for any wine enthusiast visiting the Rapolla region.
Visiting Historic Buildings
Besides exploring the captivating urban cellars, visitors often marvel at the historic buildings scattered throughout Rapolla’s charming old town.
The town’s crowning jewel is the 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, whose ornate Romanesque façade and towering bell tower command attention from afar.
Other notable sites include:
- The Church of San Biagio, known for its striking Baroque architecture
- The Church of the Annunciation, which features an intricately decorated interior
- The Church of Santa Lucia, a quaint structure with a peaceful ambiance
The remains of the city walls and notable buildings in the Piano Castle district, offering a glimpse into Rapolla’s storied past.
Availability and Booking
Booking the Rapolla Private Tour: Aglianico Wine Tour Near Matera is straightforward, with options to check availability and reserve a spot online.
Visitors can easily view starting times and secure their place on the 1.5-hour excursion, which accommodates groups of up to 54 people.
The tour is priced from €185 per group, and travelers can pay later to lock in their booking. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
With this convenient booking process, guests can look forward to discovering the historic village of Rapolla, exploring its cathedral and underground wine cellars, without the hassle of arranging transportation or entrance tickets separately.
Tour Details
Guided tours through the narrow streets of Rapolla’s old town provide visitors an immersive look into the village’s rich history and architectural heritage.
During the tour, guests can:
- Marvel at the 13th-century cathedral and enjoy the panoramic view over the surrounding valley.
Explore the intricate network of hypogean cellars that make up the Parco Urbano delle Cantine, where local wines are expertly aged.
Discover the remains of the city walls and other notable buildings in the Piano Castle district.
Visit the historic churches of San Biagio, the Annunciation, and Santa Lucia, each offering a glimpse into the village’s spiritual past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Food or Wine Tasting Included in the Tour?
No, the tour does not include any food or wine tasting. It focuses on exploring the historic village, its cathedral, and the underground wine cellars. Additional tastings or meals are not part of the included activities.
What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is up to 54 people. The tour can accommodate small to large groups, making it a flexible option for a range of visitor needs.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs on the Day of the Tour?
The tour price covers the guided tour and exploration of the attractions. There are no additional fees or costs to be paid on the day of the tour. The final price is the only cost for the experience.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to individual preferences. Guests can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, duration, and activities to suit their interests and needs. This allows for a more personalized experience.
What Is the Accessibility of the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities can be discussed with the tour provider. They may offer accommodations or alternative arrangements to ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests, though specific details are not provided in the information given.
Recap
The Rapolla Private Tour offers an immersive and engaging experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic village’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
From the 13th-century cathedral to the panoramic views and renowned Aglianico wine cellars, this guided tour provides an intimate glimpse into the essence of Rapolla.
With limited group sizes, travelers can explore the charming narrow streets and discover the captivating highlights of this Basilicata destination.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Matera
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