Matera’s Sasso Caveoso is a captivating window into the region’s ancient past. Visitors can explore a network of cave dwellings and rock churches that have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, offering a glimpse into the resourcefulness of the local people. The guided tour includes a visit to a rock church and a typical cave house, as well as the opportunity to savor traditional regional products. With private transportation provided, this immersive experience promises to transport travelers back in time and leave them eager to uncover more of Matera’s extraordinary heritage.
Key Points
-
The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic Sasso Caveoso neighborhood in Matera, Italy, which has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era.
-
Visitors can discover the region’s rich religious history by visiting a rock church with intricate frescoes and architectural details.
-
The tour provides a captivating glimpse into the historic living conditions of Matera’s inhabitants by exploring typical cave dwellings carved into the rock formations.
-
Participants can savor traditional local culinary delights, including regional cheeses, cured meats, and Aglianico wine, to appreciate the richness of Matera’s heritage.
-
The tour includes private transportation throughout, eliminating the need for participants to navigate the winding streets of Matera, and a flexible cancellation policy.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Ancient Sasso Caveoso
The Ancient Sasso Caveoso is a historic neighborhood in Matera, Italy, offering visitors a tour through its network of cave dwellings and rock churches that have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era.
This 104-reviewed tour, operated by Altieri Viaggi, provides a rundown of the ancient cave city. Guests can explore a rock church, enter a typical cave house, and sample local products.
Private transportation and pickup are included, with the tour meeting and ending at the same point on Via Domenico Ridola.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it requires a minimum number of participants and isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and a full refund is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Highlights of the Rock Church
One of the highlights of the Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour is the exploration of a rock church, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history.
These ancient churches, carved directly into the rock formations, are a testament to the ingenuity and devotion of the people who once inhabited this unique landscape.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate frescoes and architectural details that have survived the test of time, providing a window into the spiritual practices and beliefs of the past.
The opportunity to step inside these sacred spaces and feel the weight of history is truly a one-of-a-kind experience for those exploring the Sassi di Matera.
Exploring Typical Cave Dwellings
Visitors on the Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour can also explore typical cave dwellings, which offer a captivating glimpse into the region’s historic living conditions.
These cave houses, carved directly into the rock formations, were once home to generations of Matera’s inhabitants and provide a unique insight into their daily lives and adaptive use of the landscape.
The tour includes access to a furnished cave house, allowing guests to experience the simple yet ingenious design that allowed residents to thrive in this challenging environment.
From the layout to the storage and cooking areas, the cave dwellings showcase the resourcefulness and resilience of the local people who once called the Sassi of Matera home.
Tasting Local Culinary Delights
Along With exploring the captivating cave dwellings, the Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour also includes a tasting of typical local products, offering visitors a chance to savor the flavors that have sustained the Matera community for generations.
As part of the tour, guests can sample a variety of traditional foods and beverages, such as regional cheeses, cured meats, and perhaps even a glass of robust Aglianico wine.
These culinary delights provide a delicious complement to the culture, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the richness of Matera’s heritage. The tasting experience is a highlight of the tour, leaving travelers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local cuisine that has flourished in this unique stone city.
Private Transportation and Pickup
The Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour also includes private transportation, which conveniently picks up participants at the designated meeting point.
Travelers don’t have to worry about navigating the winding streets of Matera on their own – the tour operator arranges for a private vehicle to shuttle them throughout the experience. This makes for a seamless and stress-free start to the day’s activities.
After meeting the group at Via Domenico Ridola, 61, the private transportation will take everyone to the rock church and typical cave house included in the tour.
At the end, the vehicle will return participants to the same meeting location.
This private transportation service is a valuable inclusion that enhances the overall convenience of the Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour.
Booking Confirmation and Cancellation Policy
Upon booking the Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour, travelers receive immediate confirmation.
The tour operator’s cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time. This flexible policy provides customers with peace of mind when planning their trip.
Customers can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change. The tour operator understands that unexpected circumstances may arise, and they aim to accommodate their customers’ needs.
Accessibility and Transportation Considerations
The Ancient Sasso Caveoso tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it allows service animals.
Travelers can reach the meeting point near public transportation, with the tour providing private transportation throughout the experience.
The tour has the following accessibility and transportation considerations:
- Not suitable for individuals with limited mobility or wheelchair users.
- Service animals are permitted.
- The meeting point is located near public transportation options.
- Private transportation is provided for the duration of the tour.
Tour Duration and Participant Requirements
While the tour is not accessible for those with limited mobility, it caters to a maximum of 20 travelers. Participants must meet the minimum number requirement for the tour to operate. The tour duration is approximately 2-3 hours, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the ancient Sasso Caveoso. Guests can expect a private transportation service, a guided tour of a rock church, and a visit to a typical cave house. Plus, they will have the opportunity to savor a tasting of local products, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
Tour Duration | Participant Requirements |
---|---|
2-3 hours | Minimum number of travelers |
Private transportation | Maximum 20 travelers |
Guided tour of rock church and cave house | Not wheelchair accessible |
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes suitable for exploring the ancient cave dwellings. Casual attire is appropriate for the activity.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. However, some areas or activities may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines before the tour begins.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. The tour can accommodate a maximum of 20 travelers, so families with children can join the group.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The operator does not provide meals or beverages, so guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments. However, a tasting of typical local products is included as part of the tour.
Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?
The tour is available in multiple languages. According to the information provided, the tour is operated by Altieri Viaggi and can accommodate up to 20 travelers. The tour offers a multilingual experience to cater to the diverse needs of participants.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Parco Murgia: Eco-Bus Open Top (Official Tour)
- Walking Tour of the Sassi of Matera
- Matera: Guided Walking Tour
- Matera: Walking Tour With Rock Church and Hypogeum Entry
- Matera: Crypt of the Original Sin Ticket and Transfer
- Private Panoramic Tour With Piaggio Ape Calessino in Matera
- Matera: Casa Noha Entry Ticket
- Guided Tour of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso
- Grand Tour of the Stones in Electric Rickshaw
- Matera_Belvedere Walking Tour
- Matera: Sassi Tour With Entry to Rock Houses and Churches
- Matera: Underground City and Sassi Tour
- Matera: Night Murgia Trek. Enjoy an Extraordinary Sassi View
- Tour Among the Temples of Oil and the Patriarch Olive Trees
- A Tour in the Museum of Space in Matera
Recap
The tour of the Sassi – Ancient Sasso Caveoso in Matera, Italy, offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s captivating history and culture.
Visitors can explore the ancient cave dwellings, marvel at the rock churches, and savor the local culinary delights, all while enjoying private transportation and a guided experience.
This tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the resourcefulness and resilience of the local people.