Cave di Matera: A Journey into Ancient History
Discover Matera's ancient cave dwellings: a journey through history, architecture, and the stunning landscapes of Southern Italy.
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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Casa Dei Pargoli
1.0 km
Experience the charm of Matera at La Casa Dei Pargoli, a cozy holiday home just minutes from the city's stunning historical landmarks.
Visitare Matera
1.0 km
Explore Matera's captivating Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture waiting to be discovered.
The View Matera
1.4 km
Experience the charm of Matera at The View Matera, a cozy bed & breakfast with breathtaking views and authentic Italian hospitality.
Piazza San Giovanni
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza San Giovanni, Matera's charming town square filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture.
Sassi in Miniatura
1.5 km
Explore Sassi in Miniatura, Matera's unique souvenir store featuring exquisite miniatures of the city's historic cave dwellings and local crafts.
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
1.5 km
Discover the magic of Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, a unique cave hotel in Matera blending history with modern luxury for an unforgettable stay.
Info Matera Tourist Information
1.6 km
Experience the beauty and history of Matera with expert guidance from Info Matera Tourist Information for an unforgettable journey.
Piazza Duomo
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant culture and history at Piazza Duomo, the heart of Matera, Italy, surrounded by stunning architecture and local charm.
Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera
1.6 km
Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches and dwellings at Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Matera.
Matera Itinerary
1.6 km
Explore Matera, where ancient cave dwellings meet vibrant culture in a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site.
Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso - Sassi
1.6 km
Explore the enchanting Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso, a stunning monument in Matera's historic Sassi district, rich in culture and breathtaking views.
Matera Culturale
1.6 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient cave dwellings, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Matera
1.6 km
Discover the ancient allure of Matera, Italy – a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cave dwellings and rich cultural heritage.
Sassi
1.6 km
Explore the extraordinary Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its ancient cave dwellings and rich history in stunning southern Italy.
Matera Basilicata Foundation 2019
1.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Matera at the Basilicata Foundation, a unique tourist attraction showcasing history and artistry.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sculpture Park La Palomba
0.2 km
Discover Sculpture Park La Palomba in Matera: an open-air museum where contemporary art blends seamlessly with the beauty of the Basilicata landscape.
Cripta di Santa Maria della Palomba
0.2 km
Explore a medieval rock church near Matera, adorned with rediscovered frescoes depicting significant religious figures.
Parco Scultura La Palomba
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking fusion of art and nature at Parco Scultura La Palomba, a must-visit sculpture museum in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Gravina di Matera
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Gravina di Matera: a canyon of history, nature, and stunning views of the Sassi.
Cava Del Sole
0.8 km
Experience world-class performances in a breathtaking, historic quarry setting near Matera's stunning Sassi districts.
Chiesa rupestre di San Giuliano o Madonna delle Grazie
1.2 km
Explore the Chiesa Rupestre di San Giuliano, a rock-cut church in Matera that embodies the city's rich spiritual and artistic history.
Convent of Saint Agostino
1.2 km
Explore the Convent of Saint Agostino in Matera, a serene haven of Baroque architecture and spiritual tranquility amidst stunning landscapes.
Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano'
1.3 km
Explore the stunning Baroque architecture and rich history of the Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano' in Matera, a must-see for every traveler.
Palazzo del Casale
1.3 km
Explore Palazzo del Casale in Matera: A historical landmark offering a glimpse into the city's rich past and architectural heritage.
Casa Grotta Narrante
1.3 km
Explore the captivating history of Matera at Casa Grotta Narrante, an immersive museum showcasing the ancient cave dwellings and local traditions.
MUdeSCA - Museo dello Scavo Matera
1.3 km
Explore Matera's hidden history at MUdeSCA, the Museum of the Excavation, revealing the city's evolution through its subterranean spaces.
Casa Cava
1.4 km
Explore the transformative cultural hub of Casa Cava in Matera, where history meets modernity in a stunning cave setting.
Church of Our Lady 'delle Vergini'
1.4 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Church of Our Lady 'delle Vergini' in Matera, a must-see for every traveler in Italy.
Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci - Sassi
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci, a monumental gem in Matera showcasing rich history and stunning frescoes.
Chiesa di S. Antonio Abate al Sasso Barisano
1.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Chiesa di S. Antonio Abate al Sasso Barisano, a stunning Greek Orthodox church in Matera, Italy.
Essential places to dine
Ristorante'900 Casa Taccardi
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante'900 Casa Taccardi in Matera—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Osteria MateraMì
1.1 km
Experience traditional Italian flavors at Osteria MateraMì in beautiful Matera - where every dish tells a story.
Stano
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Stano in Matera - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Giù a Sud | Bistrot nei Sassi
1.2 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Giù a Sud Bistrot in Matera's historic Sassi district, where tradition meets modern culinary art.
Ego
1.2 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine at Ego in Matera, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Ristorante Baccus
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Baccus in Matera – where tradition meets flavor in an unforgettable dining experience.
La Nicchia nel Sasso Osteria Contemporanea
1.3 km
Experience the fusion of contemporary cuisine and traditional Italian flavors at La Nicchia nel Sasso in enchanting Matera.
Osteria al Casale
1.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Osteria al Casale in Matera, where tradition meets exquisite culinary craftsmanship.
Basquiat
1.4 km
Experience creative modern Italian cuisine at Basquiat in Matera - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Dedalo - Sensi sommersi
1.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Dedalo - Sensi sommersi in Matera, where local flavors meet innovative culinary artistry.
Vicolo Cieco
1.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Vicolo Cieco in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
Trattoria Lucana
1.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Lucana in Matera - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Il Rusticone
1.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Rusticone in Matera - where every pizza tells a story.
Ristorante Bell'Agio
1.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at Ristorante Bell'Agio in Matera - where Italian tradition meets fresh seafood delights.
San Biagio Ristorante - Matera centro sassi
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at San Biagio Ristorante in Matera - where tradition meets modern dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NEMO BOUTIQUE
1.1 km
Explore NEMO BOUTIQUE in Matera for stylish women's clothing that blends local charm with modern fashion trends.
Shop Bvono
1.1 km
Discover unique fashion at Shop Bvono, the premier dress store in Matera, blending local charm with contemporary style.
Stefania Boutique
1.3 km
Explore the chic elegance of Stefania Boutique in Matera, where fashion meets Italian craftsmanship in a delightful shopping experience.
Ultimoda
1.4 km
Explore Ultimoda in Matera for a unique selection of women's formal wear and boutique clothing that captures the essence of Italian fashion.
Patrizio Boutique Matera dal 1989
1.4 km
Discover timeless style at Patrizio Boutique in Matera, your destination for quality men's fashion and personalized shopping experience.
Boutique Luna Rossa
1.4 km
Discover unique Italian fashion and craftsmanship at Boutique Luna Rossa in Matera, where elegance meets local heritage.
Samà
1.4 km
Explore Samà, Matera's unique women's clothing store, offering stylish and locally crafted fashion pieces that capture the essence of Italian elegance.
MAX&Co.
1.5 km
Discover the chic elegance of women's fashion at MAX&Co. in Matera, where contemporary style meets timeless beauty.
Boutique Diffusion Kitch
1.5 km
Explore Boutique Diffusion Kitch in Matera for unique fashion and artisanal treasures that reflect the heart of Italian culture.
Il bugigattolo
1.5 km
Discover unique treasures at Il Bugigattolo, the ultimate souvenir store in Matera, where local craftsmanship meets heartfelt stories.
Piano B
1.5 km
Explore Matera's Piano B for unique handcrafted gifts that embody local artistry and Italian charm.
ARTEREGO
1.5 km
Explore ARTEREGO in Matera for unique handmade crafts and exquisite jewelry that celebrate local artistry and culture.
Unica Donna - Negozio di abbigliamento | Matera
1.5 km
Explore Unica Donna in Matera for exquisite women's fashion, stylish accessories, and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Italy.
Maison Mizio Pour Femme
1.5 km
Explore Maison Mizio Pour Femme in Matera, where Italian fashion meets exceptional craftsmanship, offering a unique shopping experience for every woman.
Cheap & Chic - Grieco Group Outlet
1.5 km
Shop stylish and affordable clothing at Cheap & Chic - Grieco Group Outlet in Matera, where fashion meets budget-friendly prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Valentino - Panzerotto Matera
1.0 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Matera at Bar Valentino, where delicious panzerotti and rich espresso await your taste buds.
Wine & Coffee
1.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Matera at Wine & Coffee, a charming bar renowned for its exquisite coffee and fine wines.
di bitonto caffè luxury shop
1.1 km
Experience luxury and exquisite flavors at Di Bitonto Caffè, a premier café in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Cream Irish Pub Guinness
1.1 km
Savor the essence of Irish culture at Cream Irish Pub, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in the heart of Matera.
JAR - Beer, Wine & Bites
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate blend of craft beer, fine wines, and delicious bites at JAR in the heart of Matera.
Crialoss, Panoramic Cave, Cafè Bistrot
1.3 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and flavorful local cuisine at Crialoss, Panoramic Cave, Cafè Bistrot in Matera.
San Pietro Barisano Residence e Ristorante
1.4 km
Discover the fusion of local cuisine and historical charm at San Pietro Barisano in Matera, where every meal tells a story.
Clint Urban Kitchen
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of American and Italian cuisine at Clint Urban Kitchen in Matera, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
In Every Hour
1.4 km
Experience the best cocktails and espresso in Matera at In Every Hour, where quality meets vibrant ambiance in a historic setting.
galleria coffe music art
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant Galleria Coffee Music Art in Matera, where art, music, and culinary delights converge for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Caffè Tripoli
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Bar Caffè Tripoli in Matera, where exquisite coffee and delectable pastries meet a warm Italian atmosphere.
Central Pub
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Central Pub in Matera, where delicious hamburgers and craft drinks create a perfect culinary retreat.
Monkey Drink House
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Matera at Monkey Drink House, where innovative cocktails and local wines create an unforgettable experience.
Bar Sedile
1.7 km
Discover the charm of Bar Sedile in Matera, where delightful coffee, local flavors, and warm hospitality await you in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Lucano dal 1962
1.7 km
Discover Bar Lucano dal 1962 in Matera, a charming espresso bar where tradition meets exceptional coffee in a historic setting.
