The "From Matera: Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour" offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the captivating religious sites nestled within the Murgia Park. Embarking on this 2.5-hour guided journey, visitors can enjoy the ancient history and breathtaking scenery that have long captivated the region. From the remarkable Rocky Crypt of San Falcione to the historic Church of Madonna delle Tre Porte, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who venture forth. But the true allure lies in the scenic Point Golgota, where the tour’s highlights converge in a truly awe-inspiring manner.
Key Points
- This 2.5-hour tour explores the stunning Murgia Materana Park and the region’s iconic rocky churches, including the ancient crypt of San Falcione and the Madonna delle Tre Porte church.
- Led by a live English and Italian-speaking guide, the tour offers breathtaking panoramic views of Matera, especially at sunset, and includes transportation and church tickets.
- The tour is priced at $76.46 per person and offers a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink, but food, beverages, and gratuities are excluded.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals, and comfortable shoes and water are recommended.
- With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 133 reviews, the tour is praised for its expert guides, efficient transportation, and excellent value for money.
Tour Overview and Details
The Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour departs from Matera and offers a 2.5-hour exploration of the region’s remarkable religious sites.
Priced at $76.46 per person, the tour features a live English and Italian-speaking guide, free cancellation, and a reserve now & pay later option.
The itinerary includes the Murgia Materana Park, the Rocky Crypt of San Falcione, and the Rocky Church of Madonna delle Tre Porte.
Highlights include the scenic Golgota viewpoint and breathtaking panoramas of Matera.
Inclusions cover transportation, church tickets, and a discount coupon, while food, drinks, and gratuities are extra.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
Looking for more options in Matera? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
Starting from either Martulli Viaggi – Tour & Experience or the Informazioni Turistiche Matera, the Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s remarkable religious sites. The tour highlights include:
| Attraction | Description |
| — | — |
| Murgia Materana Park | The stunning natural landscape of the Murgia Park |
| Rocky Crypt of San Falcione | An ancient crypt with centuries-old frescoes |
| Rocky Church of Madonna delle Tre Porte | A historic church carved into the rock |
| Scenic Point Golgota | The filming location for Mel Gibson’s "The Passion of the Christ" |
Guests can admire the panoramic views of Matera and experience the city’s unique architecture illuminated at sunset.
Included and Excluded
The Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour includes transfer from Matera to the Park, Rocky churches tickets, a specialized tour guide, and a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink.
However, the tour doesn’t cover food, beverages, tastings, or gratuities. The entrance fee to the park is included in the tour price.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals, as it involves walking and exploring the rocky churches.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water to ensure a pleasant experience on the tour.
Participant Information
Where does the tour meet? The meeting point for the tour is the Tourist Office. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes and water. Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals.
| Requirements | Details |
| — | — |
| Meeting Point | Tourist Office |
| Recommended Items | Comfortable Shoes, Water |
| Not Suitable For | Mobility Impairments, Wheelchair Users, Visually Impaired |
The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Murgia Park and the Rocky Churches, with a specialized guide leading the way.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 133 reviews.
Tour guides received a stellar 4.8/5 rating, with customers highlighting their expertise and engaging commentary. The transportation service also earned a strong 4.5/5 score, with the efficient transfer service earning positive feedback.
Reviewers noted the tour’s excellent value for money, with the 4.4/5 rating reflecting its quality relative to the price. The tour has earned rave reviews from past participants, making it a must-do experience in Matera.
Visiting the Murgia Park
Although the Murgia Park lies just outside the historic city of Matera, its unique geological formations and religious structures make it a captivating destination for visitors.
The park boasts three main highlights:
-
The Rocky Crypt of San Falcione, an ancient cave church adorned with Byzantine-era frescoes.
-
The Rocky Church of Madonna delle Tre Porte, an impressive rock-hewn structure perched atop a scenic overlook.
-
The Golgota, a viewpoint made famous as the filming location for Mel Gibson’s "The Passion of the Christ."
Exploring these sites allows visitors to enjoy the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Exploring the Rocky Churches
The rocky churches nestled within the Murgia Park offer visitors a profound glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.
The tour takes guests to two notable sites – the Rocky Crypt of San Falcione and the Rocky Church of Madonna delle Tre Porte. At these ancient sanctuaries, you’ll marvel at centuries-old frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings.
The Golgota scenic point, where Mel Gibson filmed "The Passion of the Christ", provides panoramic vistas of Matera’s iconic landscape.
As the sun sets, the city’s timeless splendor is illuminated, creating an unforgettable experience for all who explore these sacred rocky churches.
Capturing the Scenic Moments
How could one not be captivated by the awe-inspiring vistas that unfold at every turn on this Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour?
Captivated by the awe-inspiring vistas unfolding at every turn on the Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour.
Towering limestone formations, carved by centuries of wind and water, create a stunning natural backdrop. As the tour progresses, breathtaking panoramas of the ancient City of Matera emerge, with its iconic sassi dwellings cascading down the hillsides.
Highlights include:
-
The dramatic Golgota viewpoint, where Mel Gibson filmed "The Passion of the Christ."
-
Centuries-old frescoes adorning the interiors of the rocky churches.
-
The enchanting experience of witnessing the City of Stones illuminated at sunset.
Common Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. Customers can book the tour regardless of the number in their party, as it’s a private tour experience. The tour accommodates solo travelers as well as larger groups.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not mention any discounts for seniors or students. The price listed is a per person rate, and there are no indications of reduced pricing for specific groups.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the Rocky Churches?
There are no shops or vendors selling souvenirs at the rocky churches visited on this tour. The tour focuses on exploring the historical and cultural sites, rather than providing shopping opportunities.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Churches?
According to the tour information, photography is generally allowed inside the rocky churches. However, visitors should be respectful of the sacred spaces and follow any specific rules or guidance provided by the tour guide or church authorities.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals. The itinerary includes uneven terrain and stairs, making it inaccessible for those with physical or visual disabilities.
The Sum Up
The "From Matera: Murgia Park Rocky Churches Tour" offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s rich religious heritage. Travelers will discover ancient crypt, historic churches, and scenic viewpoints, seeing the stunning landscapes of the Murgia Park. With a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and a food discount, this tour provides exceptional value, as evidenced by its stellar 4.6-star rating from over 130 reviews.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Matera
More Tours in Matera
More Tour Reviews in Matera
Still browsing? Here are more Matera experiences we've covered recently
- Materasum_Materaunderground
- Matera Cooking Class
- Exclusive Private Hot Air Balloon Flight in Matera with Breakfast
- Guided Tour to the Sassi of Matera in Spanish
- Complete tour of the two Sassi – Barisano and Caveoso
- Tour of the Sassi of Matera
- Secret Matera Sassi (Private Tour)
- Private Guided Tour in Matera – Local Guide
- SASSI DI MATERA: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino
- Matera by Night lingua italiana.Casa Grotta e Chiesa incluse
- TRANI AND CASTEL DEL MONTE: guided tours and transfers from Matera
- Tour of the Murgia Materana Park and the Sassi at sunset