Sassi di Matera: Ancient Cave Dwellings

Explore the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history spanning over 9,000 years, offering a glimpse into a unique past.

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The Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a remarkable complex of cave dwellings carved into the rock in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. Inhabited since the Paleolithic era, these ancient settlements offer a glimpse into a unique and enduring way of life.

A brief summary to Sassi

Matera, Province of Matera, IT

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs throughout the Sassi.
Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see a reconstructed cave dwelling and learn about the traditional way of life in the Sassi.
Explore the rock-cut churches, such as Santa Lucia alle Malve and Madonna de Idris, to admire the Byzantine frescoes and unique architecture.
Take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and architecture of the Sassi.
Visit the viewpoints outside the city for panoramic views of the Sassi, especially at sunset.

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Getting There

Walking

The Sassi are best explored on foot due to the narrow, winding streets and numerous stairs. From Matera's central train station in Piazza Matteotti, walk approximately 20 minutes towards the historical center. Follow Via Lucana, a main street, towards the Sassi. As you approach the Sassi, you'll begin to see signs and directions pointing towards the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso districts. Be prepared for some uphill and downhill walking. Walking is free, but consider purchasing a map at a local tourist information point for a few euros to help navigate the area.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus at the bus terminal in Piazza Aldo Moro, you can walk to the Sassi in approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, take a local bus from Piazza Aldo Moro towards Via Lucana, which is closer to the Sassi. A single bus ticket costs €0.8 if purchased in advance from tobacconists or bars, or €1.50 if purchased on board.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Matera, and a short taxi ride from the train station or bus terminal to the Sassi will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and the exact destination within the Sassi. Taxi stands are located at Piazza Matteotti (train station) and other central locations.

Discover more about Sassi

The Sassi di Matera are a captivating network of cave dwellings and structures carved into the calcarenitic rock, also known as 'tufo', in the city of Matera. This area, comprising the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso districts, represents one of the oldest continuously inhabited human settlements, with evidence of habitation dating back over 9,000 years. Originally, the Sassi were natural caves that were later transformed into homes, churches, and workshops. Over centuries, the inhabitants adapted and expanded these dwellings, creating a unique architectural landscape where houses are built into and on top of each other. The Sassi showcase a remarkable example of how people have utilized natural resources like water, soil, and energy to create sustainable communities. In the mid-20th century, the Sassi were associated with poverty and unsanitary living conditions, leading to the relocation of many residents to modern housing. However, in recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in preserving and revitalizing the Sassi. Today, the Sassi di Matera are a thriving tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to explore ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes, and a maze of narrow streets and stairways. Recognized for their outstanding universal value, the Sassi were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 and named the European Capital of Culture in 2019.