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Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana: A Timeless Landscape

Explore ancient cave dwellings, rock churches, and breathtaking landscapes in Matera's stunning natural reserve.

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The Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, a protected natural reserve in Basilicata, Italy, offers a captivating blend of history and stunning landscapes. This park features dramatic cliffs, ancient cave dwellings, and rock churches, showcasing the enduring relationship between humans and nature in southern Italy. It provides breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera, especially during sunrise and sunset.

A brief summary to Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the park's trails.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the park's history and natural features.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views of the Sassi di Matera.
  • Download a map of the park's trails to help navigate the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center of Matera, begin your walk towards the Sassi. As you approach the Sassi, aim for Porta Pistola, a historic gateway to the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana and the start of trail 406. Follow the marked path into the park. The walk from Matera's city center to the park entrance takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace and starting point.

  • Taxi

    From Matera city center, a taxi ride to a park access point such as near Jazzo Gattini typically takes around 25 minutes. A one-way taxi fare generally costs about €38. Be sure to confirm the final destination and price with the driver before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

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Discover more about Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

The Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, established in 1990, is a remarkable natural and historical site that preserves the ancient bond between humanity and nature. The park extends across the territories of Matera and Montescaglioso, characterized by a unique landscape shaped by soft limestone rock, resulting in cliffs, gorges, and caves. This area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence found in the Paleolithic caves and Neolithic villages within the park. Shepherds and herdsmen have also left their mark, with farms and characteristic sheep enclosures dotting the landscape. The park's rupestrian churches, numbering over 150, showcase diverse architecture and iconography, reflecting the religious practices of past communities. The park's flora is diverse, with 923 species identified, representing a significant portion of Italy's total flora. The Murgia Materana is also home to various animal species, including the kestrel, which has become a symbol of the park. Visitors can explore the park through various hiking trails, offering panoramic views and opportunities to discover the area's natural and historical treasures.

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