Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Italian
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Overview
This guided walking tour offers a more complete and in-depth experience of the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed for travelers who want to go beyond a simple panoramic walk. Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the historic districts by stepping into the heart of the city carved into the rock.
The itinerary includes entrance to two frescoed rock churches, including the renowned Madonna de Idris, dramatically suspended above Sasso Caveoso. Here, precious frescoes bear witness to the deep spirituality and artistic expression of medieval Matera.
Another key moment of the experience is the visit to a traditionally furnished cave house, set up as it was before the 1950s, offering a concrete understanding of the real living conditions of the families who inhabited the Sassi prior to the evacuation.
Enjoy a light tasting of regional bites - taralli, bread, and veggie spreads or other - to wrap up the tour.
Options
Private Tour in English
Private Tour in Italian
What's included
Exclusive expert tour guide
Tasting of local food samples
Entrance ticket to the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate
Guided tour to both Sassi districts, Caveoso and Barisano
10% discount coupon to Mòvado Food&Drinks bar in Piazza Duomo
Entrance tickets to a Casa Grotta museum (cave dwelling)
Entrance tickets to the rock church of Madonna de Idris
Tips
Extra food and drinks
What to expect
Chiesa del Purgatorio
Pass by
The tour begins with a symbolic introduction to Baroque Matera through an external visit to the Church of Purgatory, highlighting the connection between faith, death, and rebirth in local culture.
10m
The elegant heart of the historic city, this is the ideal place to understand Matera’s urban development before entering the Sassi.
Cathedral Basilica of Matera
Pass by
From the top of the hill, the Cathedral overlooks the Sassi: a narrative stop to read the city from above and orient yourself within the rock-hewn landscape.
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
10m
A short stop at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso will allow you to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Sassi, with stunning views of the city.
Chiesa Rupestre Sant'Antonio Abate
10m · Admission ticket included
You enter Sasso Barisano to visit one of the most representative rock churches, where frescoes and carved spaces reveal the spirituality of the medieval period.
15m · Admission ticket included
A key stop to understand daily life in the Sassi, featuring rooms furnished as they were before the 1950s and stories revealing the real living conditions of local families.
15m
One of the most evocative stretches of the tour, offering open views over the Gravina canyon and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, where nature and history meet.
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
10m
A photo stop in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, surrounded by one of Matera’s most iconic panoramas.
20m · Admission ticket included
The central moment of the tour: a rock-carved church suspended above Sasso Caveoso, adorned with frescoes of great historical and spiritual value.
15m · Admission ticket included
The tour concludes with small samples of local food products.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Agenzia Martulli Viaggi
End point
In front of the Cathedral
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Collect your 10% discount coupon at our agency before the tour
Matera’s historic districts feature uneven stone pavements, steps, and sloping pathways. We strongly recommend comfortable, non-slip walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
The route includes steps, inclines, and narrow alleys. A moderate level of mobility is required. The itinerary may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
