Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini: Gateway to Murgia Materana Park
Discover Matera's ancient wonders: Start your journey at Jazzo Gattini Visitor Center for panoramic views and Murgia Park insights.
The Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini is more than just a visitor center; it's a portal to the wonders of the Parco della Murgia Materana. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century sheepfold (Jazzo), it provides a captivating introduction to the park's diverse offerings. Located in Contrada Murgia Timone, the center boasts stunning panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera, offering visitors a breathtaking first glimpse of this ancient city. Jazzo Gattini is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the Murgia Materana Park. The center provides information and resources to help you plan your visit, including maps and details about hiking trails, rupestrian churches, and the area's unique flora and fauna. Knowledgeable staff can offer insights into the park's history, geology, and cultural significance. From Jazzo Gattini, visitors can embark on various itineraries to discover the highlights of the Murgia Timone area. These include the Neolithic village, where remnants of settlements dating back 7,000 years can be seen. Several rupestrian churches, such as San Falcione, Sant'Agnese, San Vito alla Murgia, and Madonna delle Tre Porte, are also within easy reach, showcasing the region's rich religious history. For those interested in the rural heritage, Masseria Radogna offers a glimpse into the area's agricultural past.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike the trails around Murgia Timone.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Check the opening hours of the visitor center and any rupestrian churches you plan to visit.
- Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the area.
A brief summary to Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini
- Contrada Murgia Timone, Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT
- +390835332262
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Matera, follow the SS7 Appia towards Taranto. After a few kilometers, look for signs for 'CEA/Centro Visite'. Turn right and continue to Jazzo Gattini. Parking is available near the visitor center.
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Public Transport
Buses connect Matera to the Murgia Timone area. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. The bus will drop you off near Jazzo Gattini, from where you can easily access the visitor center.
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Walking
For a more adventurous approach, hike from the Sassi di Matera. Follow the well-marked trails that wind through the Gravina canyon up to Murgia Timone. The hike offers stunning views but requires a moderate level of fitness. The trail begins at Porta Pistola on the edge of Matera and descends into the Gravina River Canyon. Cross the suspension bridge- Ponte Tibetano della Gravina. From there, follow signs to Jazzo Gattini.
