Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce: A Matera Rock-Cut Sanctuary
Explore the ancient Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce in Matera, a rock-cut church with remarkable Byzantine frescoes and historical significance.
The Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce is a rock-cut church located in Matera, Italy, dating back to the 11th century. Carved into the Murgia Materana, it features a simple facade and a historically significant interior adorned with Byzantine frescoes.
A brief summary to Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce
- Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT
- +390835336166
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the approach to the church involves some walking on uneven terrain.
- Check the opening hours with the Matera CEA visitor center before visiting, as access may be restricted.
- Bring water, especially during the warmer months, as there are limited facilities near the site.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Terrazza Santa Barbara, follow signs to Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini, the visitor center for sites on the eastern side of the Gravina gorge. From there, it's a 1.2 km walk south on a gravel road, then 750m west to the gorge. Note that the path can be uneven.
-
Public Transport
From Matera city center, take a bus towards the Parco della Murgia Materana. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Bus tickets cost around €0.8-€1.50.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available in Matera, and a ride from the city center to near the Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce will cost approximately €10.50, assuming a 5km ride. Taxi base fare is €3.50, plus €1.4 per kilometer.
Discover more about Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa, where ancient cave dwellings meet modern luxury in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso
1.0 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso, a historical square in Matera surrounded by stunning architecture and rich culture.
MateraCulturale
1.0 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Matera at MateraCulturale, your essential visitor center for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ape Calessino Tour Matera
1.1 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera in classic style with Ape Calessino Tours – a unique travel experience through history and culture.
Antica Civita
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting Antica Civita, a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Matera, offering unique accommodations and warm hospitality.
Matera Culturale
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient cave dwellings, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Palazzo del Sedile
1.2 km
Explore the historic Palazzo del Sedile, an architectural marvel in Matera, Italy, where history and culture come alive in a vibrant setting.
Piazza Duomo
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant culture and history at Piazza Duomo, the heart of Matera, Italy, surrounded by stunning architecture and local charm.
Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio
1.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio in Matera, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with breathtaking views.
Piazza del Sedile
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Piazza del Sedile in Matera, a vibrant square steeped in history and culture, perfect for soaking in local life and stunning architecture.
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
1.2 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.
Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso - Sassi
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso, a stunning monument in Matera's historic Sassi district, rich in culture and breathtaking views.
Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera
1.2 km
Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches and dwellings at Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Matera.
Matera City Tour
1.3 km
Explore Matera, Italy's ancient city of stones, with guided tours that unveil its rich history, unique architecture, and local culture.
Sassi in Miniatura
1.3 km
Explore Sassi in Miniatura, Matera's unique souvenir store featuring exquisite miniatures of the city's historic cave dwellings and local crafts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte
0.5 km
Discover the Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte, a captivating rock chapel in Matera, showcasing stunning frescoes and breathtaking landscapes.
Belvedere Murgia Timone
0.6 km
Discover the stunning views of Matera from Belvedere Murgia Timone, a picturesque observation deck overlooking ancient cave dwellings.
Cisterne e Pozzi
0.7 km
Uncover Matera's hidden depths: Explore the ancient cisterns and wells that sustained this remarkable city for centuries.
Convicinio di Sant'Antonio
0.7 km
Discover the Convicinio di Sant'Antonio, an exquisite church in Matera, Italy, showcasing breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo
0.8 km
Explore Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo, a unique museum in Matera showcasing cave dwellings and the rich cultural history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
MOOM / Matera Olive Oil Museum
0.8 km
Explore Matera's liquid gold at the Olive Oil Museum, a journey through history in a 16th-century underground mill.
Vicinato a Pozzo - Parco della Storia dell'uomo - Museo della civiltà contadina
0.8 km
Discover Matera's soul at Vicinato a Pozzo: An immersive journey through history, culture, and the heart of the Sassi's ancient rural life.
Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve
0.8 km
Explore the Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, an architectural gem in Matera showcasing rich history and stunning rock-hewn artistry.
Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting cave dwellings of Casa Grotta nei Sassi de Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reveals the ancient lifestyle of its inhabitants.
Rione Malve
0.9 km
Explore Rione Malve in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient cave dwellings and captivating history, offering a unique Italian experience.
Chiesa rupestre di Sant'Agostino al Casalnuovo
0.9 km
Discover the Chiesa rupestre di Sant'Agostino al Casalnuovo, a stunning rock-hewn church in Matera showcasing unique frescoes and rich history.
Sasso Caveoso
0.9 km
Discover the ancient charm of Sasso Caveoso in Matera, Italy – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning cave dwellings and rich cultural history.
Ponte Tibetano della Gravina
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Ponte Tibetano della Gravina in Matera, a stunning suspension bridge offering panoramic views and a unique outdoor experience.
Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione
0.9 km
Explore the Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione, a breathtaking historical landmark in Matera showcasing ancient frescoes and rich cultural heritage.
Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, a must-visit church in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Essential places to dine
Pane&pomodoro
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pane&Pomodoro, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Matera.
Trattoria del Caveoso
0.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria del Caveoso in Matera – where tradition meets exquisite taste amidst breathtaking landscapes.
La Lopa
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Lopa in Matera - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a historic setting.
La Grotta Del Gusto
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Grotta Del Gusto in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
L'Abbondanza Lucana
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at L'Abbondanza Lucana in Matera—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Ristorante Soul Kitchen - Cucina per l' Anima
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Soul Kitchen in Matera - where every dish tells a story.
DIMITRIA | Il ristorante
0.9 km
Experience the essence of Italian cuisine at Dimitria Ristorante in Matera, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Ristorante Francesca
0.9 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Ristorante Francesca in Matera - where tradition meets elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Keiv Ristorante
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Keiv Ristorante in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
Baccanti
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Matera at Baccanti, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and fresh seafood.
Regiacorte - L’eccellenza del Territorio
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Regiacorte in Matera - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.
La Pignata
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pignata in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
Taverna La Focagna
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taverna La Focagna in Matera—where every dish tells a story.
Dimora Ulmo ristorante
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dimora Ulmo in Matera - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Il Forno Sassi - Martino
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Matera at Il Forno Sassi, where artisanal breads and pastries delight every visitor.
La Grotta Della Petrarola - Prodotti Tipici Lucani - Degustazioni - Panificio
0.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Lucanian cuisine at La Grotta Della Petrarola, your gourmet destination in Matera.
Arte Decorativa di Maristella Darretta
0.9 km
Explore the artistry of Matera at Arte Decorativa di Maristella Darretta, where every handcrafted piece tells a unique story of Italian craftsmanship.
Il Bottegaccio di Daddiego Mario
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Matera's artisan culture at Il Bottegaccio di Daddiego Mario, where creativity and craftsmanship come alive.
Des Boutique
1.0 km
Discover unique fashion at Des Boutique in Matera, where style meets the charm of Italy's historic landscape.
GocciaGoccia
1.0 km
Discover the artistic charm of Matera at GocciaGoccia, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a boutique experience.
Artempo Italia Di Nicola Di Cuia
1.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and artisanal gifts at Artempo Italia, Matera's charming novelty store filled with Italian craftsmanship.
L'Antica Credenza
1.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at L'Antica Credenza, Matera's premier sandwich shop and grocery store.
TAU - Libri e Articoli Religiosi
1.2 km
Explore the rich heritage of Matera at TAU - Libri e Articoli Religiosi, a unique store offering exquisite hand-crafted religious articles and rare books.
BG ARTE VISITE GUIDATE
1.2 km
Explore Matera's rich cultural heritage at BG ARTE VISITE GUIDATE, a unique visitor center and craft store in the heart of the city.
BG Arte
1.2 km
Explore BG Arte in Matera for an authentic taste of local craftsmanship and unique handcrafted treasures.
Elisa & Janna
1.2 km
Explore Elisa & Janna, a premier jewelry destination in Matera, offering exquisite handcrafted designs that celebrate local artistry.
Matera gift shop
1.2 km
Explore Matera Gift Shop for authentic local crafts and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of this historic city.
Il Sedile Srl
1.2 km
Discover authentic craftsmanship and unique souvenirs at Il Sedile, the charming gift shop in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Personalizzami Sas di Acito Mario & C.
1.2 km
Explore the charm of Matera at Personalizzami Sas di Acito Mario & C., where unique gifts and local craftsmanship come together to create unforgettable memories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrazza StoneAge
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of art, culture, and delicious cuisine at Terrazza StoneAge in the heart of Matera.
zipa cafè
0.9 km
Discover the unique charm of Zipa Cafè, a perfect retreat for tourists in the historic city of Matera, offering delightful drinks and snacks.
La Dispensa di Aquatio
0.9 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy at La Dispensa di Aquatio, a charming restaurant in the heart of Matera, offering a delightful culinary journey.
1806 Cocktail bar
0.9 km
Discover the art of cocktail crafting at 1806 Cocktail Bar in Matera, where modern mixology meets Italian tradition in a chic setting.
Kas67 Birreria
0.9 km
Discover Kas67 Birreria in Matera - a vibrant gastropub offering a unique selection of craft beers and delicious local cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
14th American Pub
1.0 km
Discover the lively 14th American Pub in Matera, where American cuisine meets a vibrant nightlife in a welcoming atmosphere.
Osteria San Pietro
1.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at Osteria San Pietro, where traditional cuisine meets breathtaking views of the historic Sasso Barisano.
AREA 8
1.0 km
Discover AREA 8 in Matera, a cocktail bar and event venue offering exceptional drinks, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Enoteca Felix
1.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Enoteca Felix, a charming bar in Matera offering exquisite wines and local delicacies in a cozy atmosphere.
Terrazza Cavaliere
1.0 km
Discover Terrazza Cavaliere, a picturesque bar in Matera offering stunning views, local wines, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Shibuya
1.1 km
Experience the essence of Southern Italy at Shibuya, a cocktail bar in Matera known for its small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
The Boulevard
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Matera at The Boulevard, a cozy bar offering local drinks, cultural vibes, and a perfect spot to unwind after exploring.
Bar Filly
1.1 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Filly in Matera, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await every traveler in this historic city.
L'Antica Credenza - Bistrot
1.1 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at L'Antica Credenza, a charming bistro offering local specialties and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Sedile
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Bar Sedile in Matera, where delightful coffee, local flavors, and warm hospitality await you in a vibrant atmosphere.
