Cava Del Sole, Matera Travel Guide

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Experience world-class performances in a breathtaking, historic quarry setting near Matera's stunning Sassi districts.

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Cava Del Sole

Cava Del Sole is a unique open-air venue located in a former quarry near Matera, Italy. Transformed into a space for concerts and events, it offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and acoustics within a dramatic, cavernous setting.

A brief summary to Cava Del Sole

SS7, 32, Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cava Del Sole.

Check the event schedule in advance, as Cava Del Sole hosts a variety of concerts, shows, and cultural events throughout the year.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the venue involves walking on uneven terrain.
Arrive early to allow time to explore the unique geological formations and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Consider bringing a hat and sunscreen for daytime events, as the venue is primarily open-air.

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Explore Cava Del Sole on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cava Del Sole, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera's city center, walk southeast on Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi for approximately 600 meters until you reach Via Lucana. Turn left onto Via Lucana, continue for 300 meters, and then turn right onto SS7. Walk for about 200 meters to reach Cava Del Sole. The total walk is approximately 1.1 km and should take about 15-20 minutes.
Public Transport

Local Miccolis buses serve the Cava Del Sole area. Check the Miccolis website or local transit apps for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket costs €0.8, or €1.50 if purchased on board.
Taxi

Taxis are available throughout Matera. A taxi from Piazza Vittorio Veneto to Cava Del Sole will cost approximately €15-€20. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Parking

If driving, paid parking is available in Matera, with rates ranging from €0.70 to €1 per hour in the city center. Parking further from the center, such as near the Municipal Building or Via Saragat, costs around €0.50 per hour or €5 for the day. Free parking can be found further out, such as along Via Lanera, a 15-minute walk from the Sassi. Be aware of ZTL (limited traffic zone) restrictions in the city center.

Discover more about Cava Del Sole

Cava Del Sole, or the 'Sun Quarry,' is a mesmerizing location just outside Matera, rich in both history and atmosphere. The name originates from the Church of the Sun, which features a sun carved into its ceiling. This church is the last remnant of a medieval monastic settlement nestled into the rocky spur overlooking the quarry.Initially, the area was occupied by religious communities. Later, it became a quarry where expert stone cutters, known locally as "Zuqquator," extracted tuff stone. This stone was essential for building Matera's iconic Sassi districts until the 1950s. The walls of the Cava still bear the marks of these workers, with terraces and small holes used to test the rock's softness visible throughout.As Matera expanded beyond the Sassi, the quarry was abandoned. However, since the 1990s, it has undergone a functional redevelopment, transforming into an incredible venue for large events and artistic performances. Today, Cava Del Sole can accommodate up to 3,000-6,000 seats, offering unparalleled emotive experiences within its extraordinary scenery. It served as an iconic location for Matera 2019, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the European Capital of Culture year. The arena includes both outdoor and indoor spaces, including the Serra del Sole, a multipurpose greenhouse. Recent reports indicate that after being closed for over two years, Cava del Sole is set to reopen in September 2025, with technical inspections underway to ensure safety.