Church of Purgatory – external visit
The route begins with Baroque Matera, where symbols and façades reveal the deep connection between faith, death, and rebirth that has shaped the city’s spiritual identity.
Piazza San Francesco d’Assisi
An elegant threshold between the “built” city and the “carved” one: here you can read Matera’s urban evolution before entering the world of the Sassi.
Matera Cathedral – external visit
From the top of the hill, your gaze embraces the entire rock-hewn landscape. This is the ideal moment to orient yourself and understand the city’s unique layout from above.
Rock Church of Sant’Antonio Abate – internal visit
Entering Sasso Barisano marks the transition into underground Matera. Frescoes and rock-carved spaces tell the story of medieval spirituality and religious life.
Narrated Cave House – internal visit
An immersive experience into everyday life of the past: rooms furnished as they were before the 1950s and stories that reveal the real living conditions of Sassi families.
Via Madonna delle Virtù – panoramic walk
A walk suspended between city and nature, with spectacular views over the Gravina canyon and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, where landscape becomes an integral part of history.
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
In the heart of Sasso Caveoso, a pause among light, silence, and rock architecture, surrounded by one of Matera’s most iconic views.
Rock Church of Madonna de Idris – internal visit
The most intense moment of the tour: a rock-carved church “suspended” above Sasso Caveoso, adorned with frescoes that tell centuries of faith and art.
Local food sampling – Grotta della Petrarola
Wrap up the tour with the flavors of the region: enjoy a light tasting of regional bites such as taralli, Matera bread, and veggie spreads.
- Complete itinerary through the UNESCO-listed Sassi of Matera
- Choose between a private tour or a small-group experience with a local guide
- Entrance to two frescoed rock churches, including Madonna de Idris
- Internal visit to a traditionally furnished cave dwelling (casa grotta museum)
- Light tasting of regional food products
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| Not included |
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| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Bring along |
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| Important information | The itinerary may be subject to changes. For more information or additional questions, please feel free to contact the phone number below. Our team will be happy to provide you with all the information you need to ensure a memorable experience during the tour of Matera. Contact Number: +39 0835334543 / +39 3284364400 We will be available to assist you with any necessary request or clarification, ensuring that your tour is organized flawlessly and smoothly. ATTENTION: |
Further information
Complete Matera Walking Tour: Historic Center and Sassi Districts
Begin this immersive private Matera walking tour in the historic center and follow your local guide toward the ancient Sassi, experiencing the gradual transition from the built city to the one carved directly into the rock.
Historic squares and panoramic viewpoints
Walk across elegant historic squares and reach panoramic viewpoints that reveal Matera from above. One of the most striking views is near the Cathedral, where you can fully appreciate the layout of the Sassi and the dramatic relationship between architecture, landscape, and the Gravina canyon.
Matera Sassi guided tour with Santa Maria de Idris included
During this Matera Sassi guided tour, explore frescoed rock churches that reflect medieval spirituality and religious life carved into stone, starting with the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate. A highlight of the experience is the visit to the iconic rock church of Santa Maria de Idris, dramatically suspended above Sasso Caveoso and considered one of Matera’s most powerful symbols.
Cave house, local flavors, and tour options
Step inside a traditionally furnished cave house to discover how families once lived in the Sassi, then finish the tour by sampling a selection of local Lucanian specialties. In addition to the private option, this tour is also available as a shared group experience.
