Matera: Walking Tour With Entries in Cave House and Church

Matera’s remarkable Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons travelers to uncover its captivating history. On this 2.5-hour walking tour, visitors can explore the area’s unique cave dwellings, once home to traditional peasant life, and marvel at the vibrant frescoes adorning a stunning 13th-century Rupestrian church. Led by a local expert, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into Matera’s architectural evolution and the cultural heritage that has shaped this extraordinary destination.

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Key Points

A 2.5-hour walking tour in Matera that explores the historic Sassi district, a cave house museum, and a 13th-century Rupestrian church.
Guided by a local expert, providing insights into Matera’s history and UNESCO status.
Visitors can experience the unique cave houses and learn about traditional peasant life in the Sassi district.
The tour includes entry to a cave house museum showcasing features like a kitchen, bedroom, animal quarters, and cellar.
Exploration of a 13th-century Rupestrian church with exquisite frescoes, offering a glimpse into Matera’s cultural heritage.

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Tour Overview

The walking tour of Matera offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the oldest cities in the world.

Matera’s iconic walking tour invites visitors to uncover the ancient secrets of one of the world’s oldest cities.

During this 2.5-hour experience, guests will wander through the iconic Sassi district, visiting a cave house museum and a 13th-century Rupestrian church.

Priced from Kč 1,751 per person, the tour is available in English, German, Italian, and Russian.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

A local expert guide provides insights into Matera’s rich history and transformation from "the shame of Italy" to a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the Banco di Napoli in Matera, the walking tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the historic Sassi district, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.

Visitors explore the unique cave houses and learn about the lives of local peasants. The tour also features a visit to a 13th-century Rupestrian church, where guests marvel at the intricate frescoes and architecture.

Along the way, the tour provides panoramic views of the stunning Murgia Materana Park, showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds this ancient city.

Experience in the Sassi

How does the walking tour immerse visitors in the captivating Sassi district of Matera? Guided by a local expert, the tour leads you through the narrow, winding lanes of this UNESCO-listed settlement.

As you stroll, you’re transported back in time, marveling at the ancient cave dwellings carved into the rocky hillside. The guide shares insights into the history and daily life of the former "shame of Italy," now a testament to human resilience.

You’ll visit a cave house museum, exploring the humble abodes of former peasants. The tour culminates with a tour of a 13th-century Rupestrian church, its interiors adorned with stunning frescoes.

Visiting the Cave House Museum

After immersing in the captivating Sassi district, the walking tour takes visitors to the cave house museum. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the traditional peasant life of Matera’s inhabitants. Visitors can explore the various rooms and features of the cave dwelling, including:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Kitchen | Preserved with traditional cooking utensils |

| Bedroom | Showcasing simple furnishings and sleeping arrangements |

| Animal Quarters | Where livestock was once housed alongside the family |

| Cellar | Used for storage and food preservation |

The cave house museum provides a tangible connection to Matera’s rich history and the resilience of its people.

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Exploring the Rupestrian Church

What makes the Rupestrian church so captivating during the walking tour of Matera? The 13th-century church is richly decorated with exquisite frescoes covering its walls and ceilings.

Visitors are mesmerized by the vibrant hues and intricate Byzantine-style paintings depicting religious scenes and figures. As the guide leads the group through the church, they share insights into the church’s history and the artistic techniques used.

The serene ambiance and well-preserved nature of the church provide a glimpse into Matera’s remarkable cultural heritage. Exploring this architectural gem is a highlight of the immersive walking tour experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Matera

Enjoying Panoramic Views

As visitors climb higher along the winding paths, they’re rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Murgia Materana Park.

The dramatic landscape unfolds before them, with the iconic cave dwellings and churches of the Sassi nestled amidst the rocky terrain. Expansive vistas stretch out towards the distant horizon, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region.

This natural backdrop provides a stunning complement to the rich historical and cultural treasures explored earlier on the tour.

Pausing to take in these breathtaking views allows guests to fully appreciate the unique charm and majesty of Matera.

Guide’s Expertise and Insights

The local expert guide leading the walking tour brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the experience. Guests are captivated as the guide:

Shares insights into Matera’s storied history, from its origins as one of the world’s oldest cities to its transformation from the "shame of Italy" to a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Offers a nuanced understanding of the Sassi neighborhoods, highlighting the evolution of the cave dwellings and their architectural significance.
Provides engaging commentary on the cultural traditions and daily lives of the local peasants, as experienced in the cave house museum.
Expertly navigates the winding lanes, ensuring visitors gain a comprehensive perspective of Matera’s remarkable heritage.
Encourages questions and discussion, fostering a dynamic and immersive tour experience.

Tour Logistics and Considerations

Though the walking tour of Matera is designed to be accessible to most visitors, it’s important to consider a few key logistical details.

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, covering the historic Sassi district and its iconic cave houses and Rupestrian churches. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended, as the terrain can be uneven.

Accessibility is limited, making the tour unsuitable for those with mobility impairments. The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should dress accordingly.

Multilingual guides offer insights in English, German, Italian, and Russian. Cancellations up to 24 hours prior are eligible for full refunds.

Ask Away

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

The tour cost covers all entry fees to the cave house museum and Rupestrian church, so there are no additional fees or costs during the tour. Participants only need to bring comfortable or hiking shoes.

Can I Bring My Young Children on the Tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for young children as it involves navigating narrow paths and stairs, which may pose safety concerns. It’s best suited for visitors aged 12 and above who can comfortably participate in the walking portions.

How Long Is the Walking Portion of the Tour?

The walking portion of the tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Guests will explore the narrow lanes of the Sassi, one of the oldest cities in the world, and visit a cave house museum and a Rupestrian church.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customization options. It’s a pre-set 2.5-hour walking experience that includes visits to a cave house museum and a 13th-century Rupestrian church in Matera.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Cave House and Church?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the cave house museum and the Rupestrian church. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide or local authorities for any specific restrictions or guidelines regarding photography during the tour.

Final Words

The Matera walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the unique cave dwellings of the Sassi district, visit a 13th-century Rupestrian church, and enjoy panoramic views – all while gaining insights from a local expert guide. This immersive experience provides a deep understanding of Matera’s remarkable transformation and the enduring cultural traditions that have shaped this UNESCO World Heritage site.