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The Gathering of the Waters: Matera's Ancient Aqueduct System

Explore Matera's ingenious water systems: A journey through ancient aqueducts and cisterns that sustained this historic city.

4.5

The Gathering of the Waters in Matera is a fascinating museum showcasing the ingenious water management systems that sustained the city for centuries. Explore ancient cisterns and aqueducts that highlight the resourcefulness of past civilizations in this arid landscape.

A brief summary to The Gathering of the Waters

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions or events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera), walk south on Via Duomo. Continue to the intersection with Via Purgatorio Vecchio and turn left. Walk straight on Via Purgatorio Vecchio for about 500 meters; The Gathering of the Waters will be on your right at number 12. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Matera's public transport is managed by Miccolis. Take a bus to a stop near Via Purgatorio Vecchio. From there, walk to The Gathering of the Waters at number 12. A single bus ticket costs €1.50 if purchased on board, or €0.80 if purchased in advance from authorized retailers.

  • Taxi

    From the Matera Centrale Station, a taxi ride to The Gathering of the Waters on Via Purgatorio Vecchio, 12 takes approximately 10 minutes. The taxi base fare in Matera is €3.50, with an additional €1.40 per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost around €10.50.

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Discover more about The Gathering of the Waters

The Gathering of the Waters offers a captivating journey into Matera's historical water management techniques. This unique museum is dedicated to showcasing the intricate systems that were pivotal to Matera's survival from prehistoric times through today. Matera, built above a deep ravine, faced unique challenges in securing a consistent water supply. Early inhabitants invested tremendous effort in constructing cisterns and water channels. The Gathering of the Waters illustrates the evolution of these aqueducts and their essential role in daily life and the region's architectural heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits that display the ingenuity of past civilizations in harnessing and channeling water, an invaluable resource in this landscape. Interactive displays and informative panels enhance the experience, making it an ideal stop for families, history buffs, and anyone curious about the past. The museum is a testament to Matera's unique heritage, highlighting how water shaped the environment, culture, and traditions of the local people. The rainwater harvesting system is one of the reasons why Matera was selected as a World Heritage Site. Locals collected rainwater in cisterns, using gravity to distribute it throughout the city. The largest cistern, Palombaro Lungo, is located under Piazza Vittorio Veneto and was built in 1832.

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