Cave di Matera, Matera Travel Guide

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Discover Matera's ancient cave dwellings: a journey through history, architecture, and the stunning landscapes of Southern Italy.

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Cave di Matera

Explore the Cave di Matera, ancient cave dwellings in Matera, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history stretching back to the Paleolithic era. Wander through the unique Sassi districts and experience a city carved from stone.

A brief summary to Cave di Matera

Matera, Province of Matera, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cave di Matera.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain of the Sassi.
Explore the rock churches with Byzantine frescoes for a glimpse into the area's rich religious history.
Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see a traditional cave dwelling.
Check out the Palombaro Lungo, an ancient underground water cistern.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Sassi districts.

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Explore Cave di Matera on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cave di Matera, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Sassi di Matera are best explored on foot due to the narrow, winding streets and numerous steps. From Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a central square, walk approximately 20 minutes to reach the Sassi. Follow the signs or use a map to navigate the ancient streets. Walking tours are also available from the main square.
Public Transport

If arriving by train at Matera Centrale station, the Sassi are about a 20-minute walk. Alternatively, take a local bus from the station to Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a central hub for exploring the Sassi. Bus tickets cost €0.8 per person for a single ticket or €1.50 if purchased on board.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Matera, but may not be able to navigate the narrowest streets of the Sassi. A taxi from Matera Centrale station to Piazza Vittorio Veneto will cost approximately €10-€15. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
Parking

If driving, it's best to park outside the Sassi area as it is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). Parking lots are available around the city center. In Pasquale Vena Road, the rate is about €0.50 per hour. Near Via Lucana, parking costs €1/hour. Consider parking at Piazza della Visitazione near the train station and walking or taking a bus to the Sassi.

Discover more about Cave di Matera

The Cave di Matera, also known as the Sassi di Matera, are a remarkable complex of cave dwellings located in Matera, Basilicata, Southern Italy. This ancient city presents a unique landscape where homes, churches, monasteries, and hermitages are carved directly into the Murgia's limestone rock. Inhabited since the Paleolithic period, the Sassi showcase a continuous history of human settlement spanning millennia.The Sassi are divided into two main districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. Sasso Caveoso retains a more rugged, cave-like appearance, offering a glimpse into the past with its ancient cave houses. In contrast, Sasso Barisano features more traditional houses and palazzi that have been excavated from the rock.Over the centuries, the caves evolved from simple shelters into complex structures. The Sassi once housed the city's poorest residents, often living in poverty-stricken conditions without basic amenities. However, these unique dwellings have been transformed into homes, restaurants, museums, and hotels, attracting artists, journalists, and travelers worldwide.Matera's blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty has made it a popular filming location and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.