Sassi di Matera, Matera Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history stretching back thousands of years.

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Sassi di Matera

The Sassi di Matera are a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, representing one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Carved into the rock of the Basilicata region, these cave dwellings offer a glimpse into a unique past, with a history stretching back over 9,000 years. Wander through a maze of ancient streets, explore cave churches, and experience the captivating atmosphere of this extraordinary city.

A brief summary to Sassi di Matera

Matera, Province of Matera, IT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sassi di Matera.

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the Sassi involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the magical atmosphere of the Sassi in softer light.
Explore the rock churches to discover stunning Byzantine frescoes and learn about the area's religious history.
Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history, culture, and architecture of the Sassi.
Try local specialties like Pane di Matera (Matera bread) and dishes featuring Lucanian ingredients in the Sassi's restaurants.

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Explore Sassi di Matera on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

The Sassi are best explored on foot due to the narrow, winding streets and numerous steps. From Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the main square in Matera, walk towards Via Ridola, one of the most beautiful streets, and follow the signs leading to Sasso Barisano or Sasso Caveoso. The walk is approximately 20 minutes. Be prepared for uphill and downhill sections. Consider starting at a higher point and walking downwards to avoid strenuous climbs. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Miccolis operates bus lines within Matera, including the 'Sassi Line,' which provides access to the UNESCO world heritage site. From the Matera Centrale train station or Piazza Matteotti, take a bus to one of the stops near the Sassi. Bus tickets cost €0.80 per person for a single ticket, or €1.50 if purchased on board. The Sassi are still mostly accessed by foot from the bus stops.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Matera and can drop you off at the edge of the Sassi. From Matera Centrale train station, a taxi ride to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso in the Sassi costs approximately €15-€20. Taxis can be found at designated stands or booked by phone. Keep in mind that taxis cannot enter the Sassi area, so a short walk may still be necessary.
Parking

If arriving by car, it's best to park in one of the designated parking areas outside the Sassi. Parking lots near Piazza Vittorio Veneto, such as those along Via Lucana, offer hourly rates ranging from €0.70 to €1.00. Via Saragat Parking is another option, costing €0.50 per hour. From these parking areas, it's a short walk to the Sassi. Be aware of limited traffic zones (ZTL) within the Sassi.

Discover more about Sassi di Matera

The Sassi di Matera, meaning 'stones of Matera', form two districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, within the city of Matera in Basilicata, Southern Italy. These districts are composed of a multitude of cave dwellings carved into the tufa rock. Inhabited since the Paleolithic period, the Sassi illustrate a remarkable adaptation to the environment, with houses, churches, and infrastructure ingeniously integrated into the natural landscape.The Sassi showcase a unique architectural style, where structures are layered over time, blending man-made caves with buildings from the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and modern eras. The rock churches, narrow alleys, and cave houses create a fascinating urban landscape. Originally a symbol of poverty, with many caves housing large families in severe conditions, the Sassi have been revitalized and transformed into a sought-after tourist destination.Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Sassi are recognized for their outstanding universal value, representing a traditional human settlement that exemplifies a way of life that has disappeared. Today, visitors can explore the Sassi, discovering cave houses, artisan workshops, and the rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Matera served as a filming location for movies such as 'The Passion of the Christ', further contributing to its allure. The city's transformation from the 'shame of Italy' to a vibrant cultural hub is a testament to its resilience and the enduring appeal of its ancient stones.