MUdeSCA - Museo dello Scavo Matera
MUdeSCA - Unveiling Matera's Subterranean Past
Casa Cava: A Cave of Culture in Matera
Explore Casa Cava in Matera: a stunning cave setting where history meets modern culture, offering a unique and immersive experience.
Casa Cava is a unique cultural center and performance space carved into a former quarry in Matera's Sasso Barisano. This subterranean venue hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events, offering visitors an immersive experience within Matera's historic cave dwellings.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Casa Cava
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-1 pm
Tuesday
10 am-1 pm
Wednesday
10 am-1 pm
Thursday
10 am-1 pm
Friday
10 am-1 pm
Saturday
10 am-1 pm
Sunday
10 am-1 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Casa Cava
Getting There
Walking
Casa Cava is located in the Sasso Barisano district. From Piazza San Pietro Barisano, walk along Via San Pietro Barisano. Casa Cava will be on your left. The walk is short and relatively easy, though the Sassi have some slopes and stairs.
Public Transport
Matera is served by an extensive bus network. Several bus lines stop near the Sassi. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions above. A single ticket costs €0.80, or €1.50 if purchased on board.
Parking
Parking within the Sassi is very restricted. It is best to park outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and walk. Alternatively, use one of the paid parking lots and walk or take a local bus. Parking at Fornaci Parking costs €1 per hour on arrival day until midnight, then €10 per day. Blue line parking is available for €0.70 per hour.
Local tips
✓
Check the Casa Cava website for scheduled events and performances, as opening hours may vary.
✓
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the cave can involve walking on uneven surfaces.
✓
Consider booking tickets in advance, especially if you plan to attend a popular event.
✓
Combine your visit with a guided tour of the Sassi to fully appreciate the historical context of Casa Cava.
Discover more about Casa Cava
Casa Cava is a fascinating cultural space nestled within the ancient Sassi of Matera, Italy. Located in the heart of Sasso Barisano, this unique venue is carved directly into the rock, a testament to the region's architectural heritage. Originally a tuff quarry used to extract stone for building Matera, Casa Cava was later abandoned and even used as a landfill.
In the 1990s, Enzo Viti, a scholar of Matera's history, rediscovered the site. In 2011, after extensive debate about its future, Casa Cava was transformed into a cultural center. Today, it serves as a multipurpose space, hosting art exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and conferences. The main auditorium, accommodating up to 140 people, is known for its impressive natural acoustics, making it a perfect venue for performances.
Visitors can explore the ten distinct rooms and galleries, each showcasing the interplay of natural rock formations and contemporary design. Casa Cava is not just a venue but also a community space where local artists and musicians share their work. Guided tours provide insights into Matera's history as a UNESCO World Heritage site and the significance of its cave dwellings. Casa Cava offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Matera's rich cultural landscape.
A brief summary to Casa Cava
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Matera
Discover Matera, Italy's ancient city of stone, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience.
Tell me more about Matera