Complete tour of the two Sassi – Barisano and Caveoso

A quick intro to this Matera experience

If wandering through ancient, labyrinthine alleyways carved into stone sounds like your kind of adventure, then this three-hour tour of the Sassi of Matera could be just what you need. Though we haven’t personally taken it, reviews highlight that it’s both comprehensive and well-paced, perfect for travelers wanting a deep dive into Matera’s unique landscape.

What we love about this tour: it covers both Sasso Barisano and Caveoso, offers insider insights from knowledgeable guides, and includes authentic experiences like visiting underground spaces and cave homes. At the same time, it’s entirely free to book (except for optional ticketed sites), making it a fantastic value.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves some uphill walking and navigating uneven paths—be prepared for a fair amount of exploring on foot. But if you’re up for a genuine, immersive experience of Matera’s iconic neighborhoods, this tour is a superb pick for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Balanced sightseeing: The tour covers the main highlights of both Sassi districts, offering diverse perspectives on the historic neighborhood.
• Expert-guided: Guides like Antonio and Stella are praised for their knowledge, making history come alive with engaging stories.
• Authentic experiences: Visit underground spaces like Casa Cava and see traditional cave homes, giving insight into local life until recent decades.
• Stunning views: Expect spectacular panoramas from Piazzetta Pascoli and other vantage points, perfect for photo lovers.
• Food tasting: The tour concludes with a tasting of typical Lucanian products, a tasty way to end your journey.
• Good value: Free to book, with tickets included for key sites—an excellent way to explore without extra costs.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Museo Di Palazzo Lanfranchi

The journey begins in Piazzetta Pascoli with a short, 15-minute introduction to the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Sassi. This initial overview sets the scene, giving context to what you’ll see throughout the tour. The guide explains the origins of the dwellings carved into the tuff stone and how the neighborhood evolved over centuries.

As the Palazzo Lanfranchi dominates this small square, you get a taste of local art and history, making it a modest but meaningful starting point. Since this part is free, it’s a nice way to get your bearings before heading into the heart of Matera.

Piazza Vittorio Veneto and the City Plan

Next, the tour meanders through Via delle Beccherie, the historic commercial artery, and arrives at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Here, you’ll witness two baroque-style churches—the Church of Purgatory and San Francesco d’Assisi—which showcase the artistic layers of Matera’s religious architecture.

You’ll also admire the Ferdinand Fountain, a 19th-century monument commissioned by the King of the Two Sicilies, Ferdinand II. The views of Sasso Barisano from this spot are especially photogenic, offering a sweeping perspective of the neighborhood’s terraced homes and winding alleys. Reviewers mention that the scenery is “spectacular,” making it a favorite photo spot.

Casa Cava: An Underground Marvel

Descending into Sasso Barisano, you’ll visit Casa Cava, an underground space that’s been transformed into a cultural site. This visit, included in the tour, is a highlight for many. It provides a glimpse into the subterranean layers of Matera’s history, revealing how ancient dwellings were carved into the rock.

Reviewers have appreciated the unique atmosphere and the stories shared by guides, who often bring the space alive with anecdotes about its past uses and restorations. It’s a cool contrast to the surface-level exploration, offering depth and mystery in equal measure.

Living in a Cave: Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera

The next stop is a typical cave house furnished to reflect the living conditions of local peasants until the 1950s. This experience is both eye-opening and poignant, showing how families managed daily life in tiny, dark spaces hewn from stone.

One reviewer noted that touring this cave gives “a real sense of how miserable peasant life was,” but also how resilient the community was. The space is furnished with authentic artifacts, and you get a sense of the stark reality faced by residents.

The Church of Santa Maria de Idris & the Necropolis

In Sasso Caveoso, you’ll visit a rock church dug entirely into the sandstone, boasting remarkable iconography from the 10th to 13th centuries. The church is a testament to the monastic and religious traditions that thrived here.

Adjacent to this, a walk through the Barbaric Cemetery reveals around 150 rock-cut burials dating back to the 7th century. Visitors can appreciate the archaeological significance while enjoying views of the cliffside and Albanian neighborhood, which add a dash of color and cultural diversity to the scenery.

End with a Taste of Lucanian Flavors

The tour wraps up near the Provincial Palace with a small tasting of local products, giving you a flavorful taste of the region’s culinary traditions. Many reviewers found this a charming and authentic conclusion, adding a personal touch to the experience.

What the Reviews Say

Guides like Antonio and Stella receive praise for their knowledgeable and engaging manner, making history and architecture accessible and fun. Reviewers also mention the spectacular views and the well-organized itinerary—no wasting time, just pure exploring.

For example, Robert from February 2025 called the experience “well paced,” highlighting that the tour covers all major sights without wearing out the group. Melissa appreciated Antonio’s “easy personality,” which made the different sites more enjoyable.

Even with some minor language barriers—like slightly weaker English—guides are described as friendly and eager to share their passion. The walking can involve some uphill sections and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Practical Information

• Duration: About 3 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but who want a thorough overview.
• Cost: Free to book, with tickets included for key sites—excellent value for such comprehensive coverage.
• Meeting Point: Via Domenico Ridola, 61, in Matera—close to public transportation, so easy to access.
• Group Size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal, engaging experience.
• Inclusions: Tickets for rock churches, cave houses, underground spaces, plus a tasting of local products.
• What’s Not Included: Private transportation—so plan to walk or arrange your own transfer if needed.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to see the true essence of Matera’s Sassi—from its ancient rock dwellings to lively piazzas and spiritual sites. History buffs will appreciate the storytelling, while those interested in architecture and archaeology will find the visits deeply rewarding.

It’s perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of cultural insight and authentic local flavors, all delivered through experienced guides passionate about their city. If you prefer avoiding large groups and value a thoughtfully curated experience, this tour’s intimate size and detailed itinerary will suit you well.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of the Sassi of Matera offers a compelling combination of history, architecture, and local life. It’s a well-organized full-circle experience that touches on every major highlight, all while maintaining a friendly and engaging atmosphere.

The inclusion of underground spaces, traditional cave homes, and panoramic views makes it more than just a walk through a historic neighborhood—it’s a chance to understand the soul of Matera.

For travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic introduction to the city, guided by passionate experts, this tour delivers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those who love storytelling, stunning scenery, and cultural depth packed into a manageable timeframe.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking uphill and uneven paths. It’s best suited for those in good mobility.

Are tickets included for all sites?
Yes, the tour price covers tickets for the rock churches, cave houses, and underground spaces.

Does the tour run in all weather?
Yes, it’s an outdoor tour, but be mindful that parts may involve exposure to sun or rain, so dress accordingly.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Are there any food or drink restrictions?
The tour includes a tasting of typical Lucanian products, offering a taste of local flavors.

Is private transportation needed?
No, the meeting point is accessible by public transportation, and the tour ends close to the start.

In essence, this full tour of the Sassi of Matera is a fantastic way to experience the city’s layered past and vibrant present. It’s an enjoyable, insightful adventure that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site.