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Hey Wanderers! Explore Matera, a magical spot in the vibrant landscapes of Italy.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Italy lies a city that’s as old as time itself.
A city that’s seen empires rise and fall, cultures meld, and traditions thrive.
This city is called Matera, and it’s a place that embodies the Italian spirit in all of its glory.
From exploring ancient caves that tell stories of the past to indulging in the richness of Italian cuisine, Matera is a treasure trove of experiences just waiting to be discovered.
So pack your bags, grab a gelato, and let’s delve into the magical world of Matera.
Immerse yourself in the rich offerings of subiaco, featuring an array of activities, and then head to trent for a fun time out, exploring unique attractions that add a touch of excitement to your journey.
1. Sassi di Matera
Sassi di Matera are ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock formations of Matera, Italy.
They have been inhabited for over 9,000 years and are now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys of the Sassi, marvel at the unique architecture, and visit a number of museums and historic churches.
There are also guided tours and hiking trails available to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: The Church of San Pietro Caveoso, the Palombaro Lungo underground cistern, and the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a perfectly preserved cave dwelling restored to its original 18th-century appearance.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as there are many steep steps and uneven surfaces to navigate.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, which features dishes made with local ingredients such as bread made from ancient grains and fresh goat cheese.
Additionally, stay in one of the cave hotels for a truly unique experience!
2. Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is the main square in the heart of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The square is dominated by the Cathedral of Matera, a stunning Baroque structure with a distinctive rose window.
Take a stroll around the square and admire the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Palazzo del Sedile and the Palazzo Lanfranchi.
Don’t miss: The view of the city from the square is breathtaking, especially at sunset when the honey-colored stone glows in golden hues.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the evening when it’s illuminated with soft lights and street musicians provide a charming backdrop to the scene.
Be prepared to climb some steep steps to reach the square, as it’s situated on a hill.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views from the top.
3. Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
Unique cave dwelling turned museum in the historic center of Matera.
What to see or do: Explore a fully furnished and preserved traditional cave home as it would have been in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Learn about the daily life and cultural traditions of the people who once inhabited these dwellings.
Don’t miss: The small but charming courtyard garden.
Take a moment to sit and take in the peaceful surroundings and imagine what life must have been like for those who called this place home.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the stairs leading to and from the cave home can be steep and narrow.
It is also recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
4. Parco della Murgia Materana
A national park located in the region of Basilicata, Italy
What to see or do: – Explore the magnificent landscape of the park, which includes rugged hills, deep canyons, and vast expanses of greenery.
Don’t miss: – The stunning views from the Belvedere di Murgia Timone, which offers panoramic views of the Gravina di Matera canyon.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the terrain can be uneven and challenging in some areas.
5. Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista is a church located in the city of Matera in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The church boasts of a breathtaking Baroque facade that catches the eye of every tourist visiting the city.
Inside the church, visitors can gaze upon intricate artworks and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceiling.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the beautiful painted vault, which is a work of art in itself.
Insider travel tips: Make sure you plan your visit beforehand since the church is not open every day, and sometimes closes early on certain days.
Additionally, taking a guided tour may help you better understand the history and significance of the church.
6. Cripta del Peccato Originale
An underground cave complex turned into a unique and intriguing church.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate frescoes and carvings dating back to the 8th century.Explore the cave tunnels and chambers filled with religious art and symbolism.
Attend a mass held in this unusual space.
Don’t miss: The vivid depiction of the original sin on the ceiling of the central cave, featuring Eve holding the forbidden fruit and the serpent wriggling beside her.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds.Wear comfortable shoes as the caves can be slippery.
Book a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this fascinating site.
7. Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano
A historical church in the ancient town of Matera, Italy.
What to see or do: Marvel at the unique architecture and frescoes dating back to the 12th century.Take in the serene atmosphere and explore the various levels of the church.
Don’t miss: The elaborately painted ceiling and intricate stone carvings throughout the church.
Also, be sure to check out the beautiful view of the Sassi di Matera from the outside.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes as the streets leading up to the church can be steep and cobblestoned.
It’s also worth noting that the church may be closed during religious ceremonies, so check ahead of time.
8. Palombaro Lungo
The Palombaro Lungo is a cistern in Matera, located in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy.
It is one of the many underground water cisterns that made Matera known as the “City of Cisterns”.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the underground cistern, which stretches for about 1,200 meters and has a depth of almost 20 meters.
The Palombaro Lungo has been restored and now offers an amazing sensory experience including sound and light installations that enhance the history of the site.
Don’t miss: Admire the skillful technology that enabled this structure to collect and store rainwater using a large funnel and filtration system.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the Palombaro Lungo involves a lot of walking.
9. Convento e Chiesa di Santa Maria de Armenis
Convent and Church of Santa Maria de Armenis, an ancient religious site in Matera.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture of the church and convent, dating back to the 14th century.
Explore the peaceful cloister, the frescoes and paintings that adorn the walls of the church, and the intricate details of the bell tower.
Don’t miss: The beautiful view of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from the top of the bell tower.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Take the time to appreciate the details of the frescoes, which tell stories of the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the bell tower.
10. Museo Archeologico Nazionale Domenico Ridola
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale Domenico Ridola is a museum in Matera, Italy that houses archaeological finds relating to the history of the city and surrounding area.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibitions that showcase the ancient history of the region, including the Neolithic era and the Roman period.
The museum’s collections include pottery, tools, jewelry, and other artifacts from prehistoric villages and tombs.
Don’t miss: One of the museum’s highlights is the collection of prehistoric figurines, including one of the famous “Dama di Matera” (Lady of Matera) statues.
The museum also has a section dedicated to the Bronze Age, with intricate vases and weapons on display.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
11. Cattedrale di Matera
The Cattedrale di Matera is a stunning cathedral located in the heart of Matera, a picturesque town in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the beautifully intricate exterior of the cathedral, adorned with Gothic and Baroque architectural details.
Step inside to see its ornate interior, featuring frescoes and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries.
You can also attend mass or other religious events held inside the cathedral.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the crypt beneath the cathedral, where you can see ancient frescoes and other artifacts dating back to the 13th century.
The view of the town from the top of the cathedral’s bell tower is also worth experiencing.
Insider travel tips: For an even more immersive experience, consider attending a concert or other cultural event held inside the cathedral.
Also, be mindful of dress code when visiting religious sites in Italy – shoulders should be covered and shorts or skirts should be knee-length.
12. Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Matera
The Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Matera is a museum dedicated to contemporary sculpture, located in the historic city of Matera, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a vast collection of contemporary artworks made by both Italian and international artists.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Giuseppe Maraniello, Giuseppe Penone, Michelangelo Pistoletto, Sol Lewitt, and many others.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events.
Don’t miss: The stunning architecture of the museum itself is a must-see.
Built within a restored 16th-century palace, the modern structure is a beautiful contrast to its historic surroundings.
Visitors should also make sure to see the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings that make up a significant part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the artwork on display, visitors should take their time and explore each room carefully.
The museum is also a great place to escape the heat during the hot summer months in Matera.
Visitors traveling by car should note that parking can be difficult in the city center, so it’s best to arrive early or use public transportation.
Finally, be sure to check the museum’s calendar of events before visiting, as there are often interesting temporary exhibitions and cultural events to attend.
13. Casa Noha
Casa Noha is a multimedia center that provides a unique and captivating audio-visual experience situated in the historic town of Matera in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Casa Noha presents its visitors with a 25-minute projection that takes them through the history of Matera.
The center employs sound and image projection techniques to tell the story of the Sassi, the two old neighborhoods of Matera, known for their distinctive cave dwellings.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the exhibit is the “Virtual Flyover of Matera,” a 3D video projection that gives visitors a virtual tour of the city and its legendary maze of interlinked courtyards, balconies, and rooftops.
Insider travel tips: • Book your tickets in advance as Casa Noha is quite popular among tourists.
14. Castello Tramontano
Castello Tramontano is a medieval fortress located in the heart of Matera, Italy, overlooking the Sassi – the ancient cave dwellings and Unesco World Heritage site.
What to see or do: While exploring the castle, visitors can admire unique architectural features, such as the defensive towers, the drawbridge, and the inner courtyard.
You can also learn about the castle’s history and the role it played in the defense of the city during the Middle Ages.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking panoramic views of the sassi and the surrounding countryside from the castle’s rooftop.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to make the most of the natural light for admiring the views.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle has steep stairs and uneven surfaces.Also, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and significance.
15. Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi
Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi (Church of St. Francis of Assisi) is a stunning church located in the heart of Matera’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What to see or do: Admire the church’s stunning Baroque architecture, which features ornate decorations, frescoes, and sculptures.
In particular, be sure to check out the church’s impressive altarpiece, which depicts St. Francis receiving the stigmata.
Don’t miss: Make sure to also visit the adjacent convent, which is home to a beautiful cloister and a fascinating collection of artifacts from the church’s storied history.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, consider visiting the church early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Also, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the church’s fascinating history and architecture.