Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra: A Rock-Hewn Wonder
Explore a medieval rock-hewn church near Matera, featuring stunning views and ancient frescoes in a unique cave setting.
The Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra is a captivating rock-hewn church near Matera, Italy, showcasing medieval frescoes and architecture. Carved into the rugged landscape, this historical site offers a glimpse into the region's spiritual past and provides stunning views of the Murgia Materana.
A brief summary to Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra
- Matera, Contrada Le Piane, Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT
- +390835336166
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and requires some walking to reach the site.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a camera to capture the incredible frescoes and the stunning views from the church.
- Check local hours before visiting, as the church may have varying opening times.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the historical center of Matera, begin at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Head south on Via Luigi Sturzo until you reach Via Roma, then turn left onto Via Roma and continue straight. Follow Via Roma to Via Cappuccini, then turn onto Contrada Agna. After approximately 400 meters, you will see a sign for Via delle Cisterne. Turn right onto this street and continue walking until you reach the edge of the Sassi di Matera. From here, follow the dirt path leading through the countryside. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
-
Public Transport
From Matera city center, take a bus towards Contrada Agna. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the bus stop in Contrada Agna, follow the signs towards Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra. The remaining distance involves a walk of approximately 800 meters along a path. Bus tickets cost approximately €0.80 - €1.50.
-
Taxi
From Matera city center, take a taxi towards Contrada Agna, Le Piane. The taxi will bring you as close as possible to the site, but you will still need to walk the final 800 meters along a path. A taxi ride from the city center to Contrada Agna costs approximately €10.50. The starting price of a taxi in Matera is 3.5 EUR, with each KM priced at 1.4 EUR.
Discover more about Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa
3.2 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
3.3 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso, a historical square in Matera surrounded by stunning architecture and rich culture.
Ape Calessino Tour Matera
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera in classic style with Ape Calessino Tours – a unique travel experience through history and culture.
MateraCulturale
3.4 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Matera at MateraCulturale, your essential visitor center for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sassi di Matera
3.4 km
Discover the ancient cave dwellings and rich history of Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and unique experiences.
Casa Noha
3.5 km
Discover the heart of Matera's history at Casa Noha, a heritage museum that showcases the city's rich cultural evolution and captivating stories.
Antica Civita
3.5 km
Discover the enchanting Antica Civita, a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Matera, offering unique accommodations and warm hospitality.
Palazzo del Sedile
3.5 km
Explore the historic Palazzo del Sedile, an architectural marvel in Matera, Italy, where history and culture come alive in a vibrant setting.
Piazza del Sedile
3.5 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.
Matera Culturale
3.5 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient cave dwellings, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Piazza Duomo
3.5 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
3.6 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio in Matera, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with breathtaking views.
Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso - Sassi
3.6 km
Explore the enchanting Saint Giorgio Al Paradiso, a stunning monument in Matera's historic Sassi district, rich in culture and breathtaking views.
Matera City Tour
3.6 km
Explore Matera, Italy's ancient city of stones, with guided tours that unveil its rich history, unique architecture, and local culture.
Tramontano castle
3.6 km
Explore the historical Tramontano Castle in Matera, Italy, a magnificent blend of architecture and breathtaking views steeped in rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piazza delle Costellazioni
0.8 km
Discover the celestial beauty of Piazza delle Costellazioni in Matera, where art and history blend in a captivating public space.
Guides Matera
1.3 km
Experience the timeless beauty of Matera, where ancient cave dwellings meet vibrant local culture in the heart of Southern Italy.
Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce
2.4 km
Explore the ancient Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce in Matera, a rock-cut church with remarkable Byzantine frescoes and historical significance.
Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, a must-visit destination for nature and history enthusiasts.
Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte
2.9 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
3.0 km
Discover the stunning views of Matera from Belvedere Murgia Timone, a picturesque observation deck overlooking ancient cave dwellings.
Convicinio di Sant'Antonio
3.0 km
Discover the Convicinio di Sant'Antonio, an exquisite church in Matera, Italy, showcasing breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Cisterne e Pozzi
3.1 km
Uncover Matera's hidden depths: Explore the ancient cisterns and wells that sustained this remarkable city for centuries.
MOOM / Matera Olive Oil Museum
3.1 km
Explore Matera's liquid gold at the Olive Oil Museum, a journey through history in a 16th-century underground mill.
Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo
3.1 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.
Vicinato a Pozzo - Parco della Storia dell'uomo - Museo della civiltà contadina
3.2 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
3.2 km
Explore the Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, an architectural gem in Matera showcasing rich history and stunning rock-hewn artistry.
Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione
3.2 km
Explore the Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione, a breathtaking historical landmark in Matera showcasing ancient frescoes and rich cultural heritage.
Rione Malve
3.2 km
Explore Rione Malve in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient cave dwellings and captivating history, offering a unique Italian experience.
Sasso Caveoso
3.2 km
Discover the ancient charm of Sasso Caveoso in Matera, Italy – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning cave dwellings and rich cultural history.
Essential places to dine
Pane&pomodoro
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pane&Pomodoro, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Matera.
La Lopa
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Lopa in Matera - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a historic setting.
DIMITRIA | Il ristorante
3.2 km
Experience the essence of Italian cuisine at Dimitria Ristorante in Matera, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Trattoria del Caveoso
3.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria del Caveoso in Matera – where tradition meets exquisite taste amidst breathtaking landscapes.
L'Abbondanza Lucana
3.2 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
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Soul Kitchen in Matera - where every dish tells a story.
La Grotta Del Gusto
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Grotta Del Gusto in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
La Pignata
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pignata in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and fresh seafood.
Ristorante Francesca
3.3 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Ristorante Francesca in Matera - where tradition meets elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Keiv Ristorante
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Keiv Ristorante in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
Taverna La Focagna
3.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taverna La Focagna in Matera—where every dish tells a story.
Baccanti
3.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Matera at Baccanti, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Regiacorte - L’eccellenza del Territorio
3.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Regiacorte in Matera - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.
Kapunto Matera
3.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Kapunto Matera, where traditional cuisine meets modern culinary artistry in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Il Forno Sassi - Martino
3.2 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
3.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Lucanian cuisine at La Grotta Della Petrarola, your gourmet destination in Matera.
Des Boutique
3.2 km
Discover unique fashion at Des Boutique in Matera, where style meets the charm of Italy's historic landscape.
Arte Decorativa di Maristella Darretta
3.3 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
3.3 km
Discover the heart of Matera's artisan culture at Il Bottegaccio di Daddiego Mario, where creativity and craftsmanship come alive.
Artempo Italia Di Nicola Di Cuia
3.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and artisanal gifts at Artempo Italia, Matera's charming novelty store filled with Italian craftsmanship.
GocciaGoccia
3.4 km
Discover the artistic charm of Matera at GocciaGoccia, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a boutique experience.
L'Antica Credenza
3.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at L'Antica Credenza, Matera's premier sandwich shop and grocery store.
Matera gift shop
3.5 km
Explore Matera Gift Shop for authentic local crafts and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of this historic city.
TAU - Libri e Articoli Religiosi
3.5 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
3.5 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
3.5 km
Explore BG Arte in Matera for an authentic taste of local craftsmanship and unique handcrafted treasures.
Elisa & Janna
3.5 km
Explore Elisa & Janna, a premier jewelry destination in Matera, offering exquisite handcrafted designs that celebrate local artistry.
Il Sedile Srl
3.5 km
Discover authentic craftsmanship and unique souvenirs at Il Sedile, the charming gift shop in the heart of Matera, Italy.
SHIKDER RIFAT SOUVENIR E BIGIOTTERIA MATERA
3.5 km
Explore a unique souvenir store in Matera, offering exquisite jewelry and local crafts that capture the essence of the region's rich culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrazza StoneAge
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of art, culture, and delicious cuisine at Terrazza StoneAge in the heart of Matera.
1806 Cocktail bar
3.1 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
3.2 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
3.2 km
Discover the lively 14th American Pub in Matera, where American cuisine meets a vibrant nightlife in a welcoming atmosphere.
La Dispensa di Aquatio
3.2 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.
zipa cafè
3.2 km
Discover the unique charm of Zipa Cafè, a perfect retreat for tourists in the historic city of Matera, offering delightful drinks and snacks.
AREA 8
3.3 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.
Osteria San Pietro
3.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at Osteria San Pietro, where traditional cuisine meets breathtaking views of the historic Sasso Barisano.
Terrazza Cavaliere
3.3 km
Discover Terrazza Cavaliere, a picturesque bar in Matera offering stunning views, local wines, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Enoteca Felix
3.4 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.
Shibuya
3.4 km
Experience the essence of Southern Italy at Shibuya, a cocktail bar in Matera known for its small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
The Boulevard
3.4 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.
L'Antica Credenza - Bistrot
3.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at L'Antica Credenza, a charming bistro offering local specialties and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Filly
3.5 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Filly in Matera, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await every traveler in this historic city.
HEMINGWAY'S ITALIAN BAR E RESTAURANT
3.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Hemingway's Italian Bar e Ristorante, a charming bistro in the heart of Matera, perfect for food lovers.
