Full Private 3h Excursion to the Sassi di Matera

Overview

This guided walking tour offers a more complete and in-depth experience of the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed for travelers who want to go beyond a simple panoramic walk. Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the historic districts by stepping into the heart of the city carved into the rock. The itinerary includes entrance to two frescoed rock churches, including the renowned Madonna de Idris, dramatically suspended above Sasso Caveoso. Here, precious frescoes bear witness to the deep spirituality and artistic expression of medieval Matera. Another key moment of the experience is the visit to a traditionally furnished cave house, set up as it was before the 1950s, offering a concrete understanding of the real living conditions of the families who inhabited the Sassi prior to the evacuation. Enjoy a light tasting of regional bites - taralli, bread, and veggie spreads or other - to wrap up the tour.

Itinerary

1. Chiesa del Purgatorio

   The tour begins with a symbolic introduction to Baroque Matera through an external visit to the Church of Purgatory, highlighting the connection between faith, death, and rebirth in local culture.

   · Non-stop passage

2. The elegant heart of the historic city, this is the ideal place to understand Matera’s urban development before entering the Sassi.

   · 10 min

3. Cattedrale di Matera

   From the top of the hill, the Cathedral overlooks the Sassi: a narrative stop to read the city from above and orient yourself within the rock-hewn landscape.

   · Non-stop passage

4. Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

   A short stop at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso will allow you to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Sassi, with stunning views of the city.

   · 10 min

5. Chiesa Rupestre Sant'Antonio Abate

   You enter Sasso Barisano to visit one of the most representative rock churches, where frescoes and carved spaces reveal the spirituality of the medieval period.

   · 10 min· Admission included

6. A key stop to understand daily life in the Sassi, featuring rooms furnished as they were before the 1950s and stories revealing the real living conditions of local families.

   · 15 min· Admission included

7. One of the most evocative stretches of the tour, offering open views over the Gravina canyon and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, where nature and history meet.

   · 15 min

8. Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

   A photo stop in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, surrounded by one of Matera’s most iconic panoramas.

   · 10 min

9. The central moment of the tour: a rock-carved church suspended above Sasso Caveoso, adorned with frescoes of great historical and spiritual value.

   · 20 min· Admission included

10. The tour concludes with small samples of local food products.

    · 15 min· Admission included

How to use your ticket

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Collect your 10% discount coupon at our agency before the tour
• Matera’s historic districts feature uneven stone pavements, steps, and sloping pathways. We strongly recommend comfortable, non-slip walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
• The route includes steps, inclines, and narrow alleys. A moderate level of mobility is required. The itinerary may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers

Travelers

Pricing per group (up to 8 people).

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather or if there aren't enough participants.

Reviews

Product code: 91060P11

Activity offered by Martulli Viaggi via Viator.