Matera: Sassi Tour With Entry to Rock Houses and Churches

Matera’s Sassi district is a captivating maze of ancient rock houses and churches that transport visitors back in time. A guided tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an immersive experience, revealing the architectural wonders and historic significance that have made it a popular destination. Exploring the Sassi Caveoso and Sassi Barisano neighborhoods, travelers can uncover the stories behind iconic structures like the Church of Saint Mary of Idris and Casa Grotta. With high customer ratings, this tour promises an insightful journey into Matera’s rich heritage – one that may just leave you yearning to discover more.

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Key Points

This comprehensive 2-hour guided tour explores the historic Sassi district of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including visits to rock churches and preserved cave dwellings.
Travelers can choose from tours offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and Spanish, with an optional Spanish audio guide available.
The tour covers key locations within the Sassi Caveoso and Sassi Barisano neighborhoods, showcasing the dramatic cave architecture, narrow alleys, and ancient frescoes.
Highlights include the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, San Giovanni in Monterrone, the Barbaric Cemetery, and the panoramic views from Piazza Giovanni Pascoli.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from over 500 reviews, the tour is praised for the guide’s expertise, comprehensive coverage of historic sites, and the insight provided into ancient lifestyles.

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Tour Overview

This Matera: Sassi Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the historic Sassi district in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A comprehensive exploration of the historic Sassi district in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Priced from Kč 877 per person, the 2-hour guided tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and Spanish. An optional audio guide in Spanish is also available.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made with a pay-later option.

The tour covers key locations like the Sassi Caveoso, Sassi Barisano, and several rock churches, offering insights into the region’s history and ancient lifestyles.

Looking for more options in Matera? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Key Locations

The Sassi Tour in Matera covers several key locations that showcase the historic and architectural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors explore the Sassi Caveoso and Sassi Barisano, the two distinct neighborhoods carved into the limestone cliffs. They’ll visit the Church of Saint Mary of Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone, rock-hewn churches that display ancient frescoes.

The tour also includes a stop at the Casa Grotta, a preserved cave dwelling, and the Barbaric Cemetery, an intriguing necropolis.

The tour culminates at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, providing panoramic views of the unique Sassi landscape.

Sassi Caveoso

Sassi Caveoso is one of the two distinct neighborhoods that make up the historic Sassi district in Matera. This neighborhood is known for its dramatic caves and rock-hewn dwellings carved directly into the stone hillside.

Key features of Sassi Caveoso include:

Maze-like network of narrow alleys and staircases
Ancient rock-cut churches, like the Church of Saint Mary of Idris
Cave dwellings that were once home to impoverished residents
Spectacular views overlooking the Gravina river gorge

Exploring Sassi Caveoso provides a unique window into Matera’s ancient past and the traditional troglodyte lifestyle of its former inhabitants.

Sassi Barisano

Neighboring Sassi Caveoso, Sassi Barisano forms the other distinctive district of Matera’s historic Sassi neighborhoods.

This area is characterized by its network of narrow alleys, staircases, and caves carved into the stone. Visitors will explore the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, notable for its frescoed interiors.

The tour also includes a stop at Casa Grotta, a restored cave dwelling that provides insight into the region’s traditional peasant lifestyle.

Along the way, guests can admire the panoramic views over the ravine and the distinct architecture of the Sassi Barisano area before reaching the tour’s end point at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli.

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Architectural Wonders

As visitors explore the historic Sassi neighborhoods, they’ll be captivated by the unique architectural wonders on display.

From the ancient rock-hewn churches to the charming cave dwellings, the Sassi of Matera showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the local people.

Key architectural highlights include:

The Church of Saint Mary of Idris, with its intricate stone carvings and frescoed interiors
The San Giovanni in Monterrone, a rock-cut church with striking Byzantine-style architecture
The Casa Grotta, a preserved cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the traditional Sassi lifestyle
The Barbaric Cemetery, a centuries-old necropolis carved into the rock face

There's plenty more to explore in Matera

Cultural Insights

Beyond the architectural marvels, the Sassi Tour in Matera offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city.

Guided by licensed experts, visitors discover the historically significant rock churches, with their intricate frescoes and symbolic imagery. The tour also explores the Casa Grotta, a meticulously preserved example of the traditional peasant dwellings that once dotted the Sassi.

Through these immersive experiences, travelers gain profound insights into the resilient, ingenious lifestyles of Matera’s inhabitants across the centuries.

The tour culminates in the Barbaric Cemetery, providing a poignant reminder of the city’s layered history.

Customer Feedback

What do travelers have to say about the Sassi Tour in Matera? Overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 527 reviews.

Travelers praise the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, as well as the comprehensive coverage of historic sites:

The guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, as well as the comprehensive coverage of historic sites, earn high praise from travelers.

"Chanel from Germany" highlighted the guide’s adaptability during rain and insightful commentary.
"Maria from Australia" appreciated the informative guide and gained deeper understanding of ancient lifestyles.
"Ernest from the US" emphasized the beauty and significance of the locations visited.

Important Considerations

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, as the Sassi Tour involves extensive walking through the historic city.

Strollers, baby carriages, and electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed, so those with mobility restrictions may find the tour challenging.

While the tour operates in light rain, visitors should check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

The uneven terrain and steep stairs throughout the Sassi neighborhoods make the tour unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

However, the unique opportunity to explore the ancient rock dwellings and churches makes the Sassi Tour a must-see experience for able-bodied visitors to Matera.

Common Questions

Is There an Option to Take a Private Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a private option. Customers can book a private Matera Sassi tour with personalized attention from the guide and flexibility to customize the itinerary to their preferences.

Can the Tour Accommodate Large Groups or Families?

The tour can accommodate large groups and families. It offers flexible booking options and private tours are available upon request, allowing for a customized experience to suit the group’s needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not explicitly mention student or senior discounts. However, it’s worth inquiring with the provider if any such discounts are available when booking. Group rates may also be an option for larger parties.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Guests can discuss their preferences with the guide, who may adjust the itinerary or provide additional insights tailored to the group’s interests.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Residents?

The tour doesn’t include specific opportunities to interact with local residents. However, visitors may have chances to engage with locals during free time or by exploring the historic Sassi neighborhoods on their own after the guided tour.

The Sum Up

This Sassi district tour offers an immersive experience in Matera’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the iconic rock houses, ancient churches, and picturesque viewpoints, gaining valuable cultural insights. With high customer ratings, the tour promises an enriching journey through the Sassi Caveoso and Sassi Barisano neighborhoods. It’s an excellent way to discover Matera’s architectural wonders and understand the city’s significant history.