Best Attractions in Matera
Planning a trip to Matera? Discover the best attractions in Matera with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions in Matera
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a unique experience with its ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi di Matera. Wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, exploring the fascinating history of this ancient city. Be sure to visit the ancient rock churches carved into the cliffs, such as the beautiful Church of San Pietro Caveoso. Enjoy breathtaking views from the Belvedere di Murgia Timone overlooking the ravine. Indulge in the local cuisine at traditional restaurants serving up delicious Mediterranean dishes. Matera is a destination like no other, where history comes to life and offers a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- A–Z
65 attractions
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Historical place4.8★40,471 reviews
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.
Open 24 hours
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Tourist attraction4.5★9,715 reviews
Palombaro lungo
The Palombaro Lungo is Matera's largest underground cistern, a vast cavern carved beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Built in the 16th century and expanded in the 19th, it once held over five million liters of water, providing a vital water reserve for the city. Today, visitors can explore this impressive feat of hydraulic engineering via suspended walkways.
Daily 9:30–13:00, 15:00–18:30
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Observation deck4.7★4,836 reviews
Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli
The Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli is a must-visit terrace in Matera's Upper Town, offering panoramic views of the ancient cave city. It's a prime spot to appreciate the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Open 24 hours
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Park4.7★3,422 reviews
Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana
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.
Open 24 hours
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Cathedral4.6★3,348 reviews
Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio
Perched atop Matera's Civita hill, the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio, also known as Matera Cathedral, is a stunning example of Apulian-Romanesque architecture. Built in the 13th century, it dominates the city skyline and offers breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera. Its intricate facade and serene interior make it a must-see landmark.
Mon–Sat 9:00–17:30 · Sun 9:00–10:30, 12:30–17:30
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Tourist attraction4.6★2,039 reviews
Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera
The Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of residents who once dwelled in the Sassi's cave dwellings. This carefully preserved cave home showcases the architecture, furnishings, and tools used by families living in these unique spaces until the mid-20th century.
Mon–Fri 9:30–18:00 · Sat–Sun 9:30–19:00
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Tourist information center4.8★1,385 reviews
Martulli Viaggi - Tour & Experience
Martulli Viaggi is a travel agency in Matera offering guided tours and experiences to explore the city's unique Sassi districts, rock churches, and the Murgia Park. They provide comprehensive travel services, including bus tours and car rentals, ensuring a memorable visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Daily 9:00–21:00
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Historical place4.8★1,281 reviews
Sasso Caveoso
Sasso Caveoso is one of the two historical districts (the other being Sasso Barisano) that make up the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings. This area, characterized by houses carved directly into the calcarenitic rock, offers a glimpse into a settlement that has been continuously inhabited since the Paleolithic period.
Daily 0:00–10:00
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Tourist attraction4.6★1,226 reviews
Casa Noha
Casa Noha, located in the heart of Matera's Sassi, is a historic house and heritage museum offering visitors an immersive multimedia experience showcasing the city's fascinating past. Through film and exhibits, Casa Noha tells the story of Matera from its origins to the present day, providing context for exploring the unique cave dwellings and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Mon–Tue 10:00–19:00 · Thu–Sun 10:00–19:00
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Nature preserve4.2★1,325 reviews
Riserva Naturale San Giuliano
The Riserva Naturale San Giuliano, located in the Province of Matera, is a protected nature reserve and wildlife refuge surrounding Lake San Giuliano. The diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for various flora and fauna, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with nature through scenic walking trails and birdwatching.
Castle Park
Castle Park, located in Matera, Italy, offers a refreshing green space near the historic Castello Tramontano. It's a place where visitors can relax, enjoy panoramic views, and take a break from exploring the ancient city.
Daily 9:00–13:00, 16:00–21:00
Casa Cava
Casa Cava is a unique cultural center and performance space carved into a former quarry in Matera's Sasso Barisano. This subterranean venue hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events, offering visitors an immersive experience within Matera's historic cave dwellings.
Daily 10:00–13:00, 15:30–18:30
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, dating back to the 13th century, stands as a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Matera. Originally dedicated to Santa Maria la Nova, this church has undergone several transformations throughout its history, blending Romanesque, Arab, Gothic, and Greek architectural influences.
Daily 8:00–22:30
Crypt of Original Sin
The Crypt of Original Sin, often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art,' is an ancient cave church near Matera, Italy, adorned with remarkable 9th-century frescoes. Rediscovered in the 1960s, it features stunning biblical scenes painted by the 'Painter of the Flowers of Matera,' offering a unique glimpse into early medieval art and religious devotion.
Daily 9:00–15:30
Castello Tramontano
Perched atop Lapillo Hill in Matera, Castello Tramontano is a 16th-century Aragonese-style castle commissioned by the infamous Count Gian Carlo Tramontano. Never completed due to the Count's assassination by disgruntled citizens, it stands as a symbol of feudal ambition and the Matera's resilient spirit.
Palazzo Lanfranchi
Palazzo Lanfranchi, a stunning example of 17th-century architecture, stands proudly on Piazza Pascoli in Matera. Originally built as a seminary, it now houses the National Museum of Matera, showcasing a rich collection of regional art and historical artifacts.
Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano'
Nestled in the enchanting landscape of Matera, the Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano' stands as a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, captivating tourists with its intricate details and historical significance. This remarkable church is not just a place of worship; it's a window into the rich cultural tapestry of the region, drawing visitors eager to explore its ancient roots and breathtaking surroundings.
Daily 10:00–19:00
Cava Del Sole
Cava Del Sole is a unique open-air venue located in a former quarry near Matera, Italy. Transformed into a space for concerts and events, it offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and acoustics within a dramatic, cavernous setting.
Church of Saint Mary of Idris
The Church of Saint Mary of Idris, or Madonna de Idris, is a captivating rupestrian church carved into the limestone rock of Monterrone in Matera's Sasso Caveoso. Dating back to the 14th-15th centuries, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into the area's early Christian heritage.
Daily 10:00–16:00
Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi
The Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi, located in the heart of Matera, is a prominent Catholic church showcasing a blend of architectural styles and a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Its striking facade and central location make it a must-see for visitors exploring the city's historical center.
Daily 8:00–12:00, 16:30–20:00
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio detto dei Tre Archi
The Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio, also known as dei Tre Archi, is a scenic viewpoint in Matera offering panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Named after the painter Luigi Guerricchio, it provides an ideal vantage point to appreciate the ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut architecture.
Open 24 hours
Convent of Saint Agostino
The Convent of Saint Agostino, including the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a 16th-century complex in Matera's Sasso Barisano. Built by Augustinian monks, it stands on a site with ancient origins and offers stunning views of the city and Gravina canyon.
Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve
The Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve is a rock-hewn church near Matera's Sasso Caveoso, dating back to the 8th century as the first Benedictine settlement in Matera. Featuring 12th and 13th-century frescoes, including a rare breastfeeding Madonna, the church provides a glimpse into the area's religious history.
Daily 10:00–18:50
Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini
The Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini, located in a renovated 19th-century sheepfold, serves as the visitor center for the Parco della Murgia Materana. Situated in the Murgia Timone area, it offers panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera and is the ideal starting point for exploring the park's natural and historical attractions.
Daily 10:00–15:00
Chiesa del Purgatorio
The Chiesa del Purgatorio, or Church of Purgatory, in Matera, is a striking example of Baroque architecture completed in 1747. Its facade, adorned with skulls and skeletons, reflects its dedication to the souls in purgatory. Inside, visitors can admire 18th-century paintings and a historic pipe organ.
Ipogeo MateraSum
Descend beneath the surface of Matera to explore Ipogeo MateraSum, an underground complex revealing the city's hidden history. This subterranean world, carved into tuff rock, features ancient dwellings, streets, cisterns, and even places of worship, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited this unique environment.
Daily 10:00–13:00, 15:00–18:00
Casa grotta “C’era una volta...”
Step back in time at Casa Grotta "C’era una volta...", a captivating museum in Matera that recreates the living conditions of families who once inhabited the city's unique cave dwellings. Explore meticulously arranged rooms filled with period furniture, tools, and artifacts, offering an authentic glimpse into Matera's rich history and cultural traditions.
Daily 9:00–19:00
Laboratory Museum of Rural Life
The Laboratory Museum of Rural Life in Matera offers a captivating glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage and traditions. Housed in a restored 16th-century building, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, from farming tools to household items, illustrating the daily lives of rural communities. It's a heartfelt tribute to the past, providing an enriching experience for those seeking to understand Matera's cultural roots.
Daily 9:00–13:00, 16:00–19:00
MUdeSCA - Museo dello Scavo Matera
MUdeSCA, the Museo dello Scavo (Museum of the Excavation), delves into Matera's fascinating history through the exploration of excavated sites. Located near the Sasso Barisano, it showcases the evolution of human habitation in the city, from early settlements to rural life, within cave dwellings carved into the rock.
Daily 10:00–13:00, 15:00–19:00
Fontana Ferdinandea
Located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the Fontana Ferdinandea is a beautiful Baroque fountain built in the 19th century to honor King Ferdinand II of Bourbon's visit. It stands as a key landmark, blending classical elements with local artistry, offering a serene ambiance amidst the bustling square.
Open 24 hours
Vicinato a Pozzo - Parco della Storia dell'uomo - Museo della civiltà contadina
Explore the Vicinato a Pozzo, a captivating museum in Matera's Rione Malve, offering a glimpse into the area's rural history and the lives of its inhabitants. Part of the Parco della Storia dell'Uomo, it uses multimedia exhibits to showcase Matera's 8,000-year story.
Daily 10:00–19:00
Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci - Sassi
The Complesso Rupestre Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci is a rock-cut architectural marvel in Matera's Sassi, comprising two churches, a monastery, a 'Casa Grotta,' and an ancient cellar, all interconnected with narrow passages and staircases. Carved from tuff, it hosts prestigious contemporary art exhibitions.
Daily 10:00–17:30
Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione
The Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione, also known as San Canio or San Canione, is an ancient rock church carved into the limestone of Matera, Italy. Dating back to the 9th century, this church is a testament to the early monastic communities in the area and features remnants of Byzantine-style frescoes. Though currently temporarily closed, its historical and artistic significance continues to draw visitors.
MOOM / Matera Olive Oil Museum
Discover the rich history of olive oil production at MOOM, the Matera Olive Oil Museum. Housed in a 16th-century hypogeum (underground chamber) in the Sasso Caveoso, the museum showcases the traditional techniques and tools used to transform olives into liquid gold, offering a fascinating glimpse into Matera's agricultural past.
Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera
The Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio in Matera is a captivating museum showcasing the city's ancient rock-cut architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore cave dwellings, rock-hewn churches adorned with frescoes, and remarkable architecture that reflects the cultural and spiritual aspects of past communities. It offers an immersive experience into Matera's historical context as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Parco Scultura La Palomba
Parco Scultura La Palomba is an open-air sculpture park located in Matera, Italy, within a reclaimed tuff quarry. Founded by sculptor Antonio Paradiso, the park showcases contemporary sculptures integrated into the unique landscape of the former Paleolithic and Neolithic site.
Open 24 hours
Church of Saint Mary 'Maggiore'
The Church of Saint Mary 'Maggiore' in Miglionico, Basilicata, is a captivating blend of architectural styles and artistic treasures. Originally of Byzantine origin, this church showcases a Romanesque bell tower and a Renaissance portal, and is most renowned for housing the magnificent Polyptych of Cima da Conegliano, a masterpiece of Venetian art.
Daily 8:00–18:00
The Gathering of the Waters
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.
Museo Nazionale di Matera - Ex Ospedale San Rocco
Housed in the former San Rocco Hospital, the Museo Nazionale di Matera showcases a compelling collection of art and artifacts related to the history of Matera and the Basilicata region. Exhibits range from archaeological finds to sacred art, offering a glimpse into the area's cultural evolution.
Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra
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.
Casa Cisterna
Casa Cisterna, located in Matera, Italy, offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. This heritage museum showcases archaeological and ethnographic exhibits within a beautifully preserved structure, providing insights into the lives and traditions of past inhabitants.
Mon 9:30–19:00 · Wed–Sun 9:30–19:00
Cripta di Santa Maria della Palomba
The Cripta di Santa Maria della Palomba, near the Sanctuary of the same name outside Matera, is a rock-cut church featuring a simple nave adorned with notable frescoes. Discovered in 1965, these frescoes depict religious figures and offer a glimpse into the area's medieval artistic heritage.
Daily 7:00–19:30
La Cantina Frrud - Museo del Vino
La Cantina Frrud - Museo del Vino, located in a 16th-century building in Altamura, offers an immersive journey into the region's winemaking history. Discover ancient tools, learn about traditional methods, and savor local wines in this unique museum experience.
Gravina di Matera
The Gravina di Matera is a dramatic canyon carved by a river, offering stunning views of the Sassi di Matera and a glimpse into the region's ancient past. Explore prehistoric caves and rock-hewn churches nestled within its depths.
Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte
The Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte, a rock-cut church in Matera, is named for its believed three original entrances carved into the stone. Following the collapse of its right aisle, the interior now features two naves adorned with ancient frescoes, graffiti crosses, and a serene atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the region's early Christian heritage.
Open 24 hours
Church of Saint Dominic
The Church of Saint Dominic, located on Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera, Italy, showcases a blend of Romanesque and Baroque architectural styles. Originally built in 1230, its facade features intricate carvings and symbols, including a rose window with a dog holding a torch, representing the Dominican order.
Palazzo del Sedile
Piazza del Sedile, a charming square in Matera's historic center, has served as the city's political and social hub since the 16th century. Surrounded by notable buildings like the Palazzo del Sedile, it offers a glimpse into Matera's rich past and vibrant present.
Casa Grotta Narrante
Step back in time at Casa Grotta Narrante, an immersive museum in Matera's Sassi district. Explore a traditional cave dwelling, furnished with authentic artifacts, and discover the unique history and culture of this ancient city.
Daily 9:00–20:00
Palazzo del Casale
Palazzo del Casale, located in Matera, Italy, is a historical landmark showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage. This well-preserved palace offers visitors a glimpse into the architecture and history of Matera.
Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce
The Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce is a rock-cut church located in Matera, Italy, dating back to the 11th century. Carved into the Murgia Materana, it features a simple facade and a historically significant interior adorned with Byzantine frescoes.
Chiesa rupestre di San Giuliano o Madonna delle Grazie
The Chiesa Rupestre di San Giuliano, also known as Madonna delle Grazie, is a rock-cut church nestled within the Sasso Barisano of Matera. This ancient church, part of the Sant'Agostino complex, features exquisite frescoes dating back to the 13th century, offering a glimpse into the region's spiritual and artistic heritage.
Villaggio neolitico
Explore the remains of a Neolithic village near Matera, dating back thousands of years. See evidence of early farming settlements, complete with defensive structures and remnants of daily life, offering a glimpse into the lives of Italy's first agricultural communities.
Skulptur von Andrea Roggi
The Skulptur von Andrea Roggi is a captivating sculpture in Matera, Italy, blending contemporary art with the city's ancient architecture. This thought-provoking piece adds a unique layer to Matera's rich artistic tapestry, inviting contemplation and admiration.
Gravina di Coriglione
Gravina di Coriglione, near Castellaneta, is a captivating nature preserve and hiking area. It offers a serene escape into the Apulian countryside with opportunities for outdoor activities and immersion in the local landscape.
Open 24 hours
Cave di Matera
Explore the Cave di Matera, ancient cave dwellings in Matera, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history stretching back to the Paleolithic era. Wander through the unique Sassi districts and experience a city carved from stone.
Sculpture Park La Palomba
Sculpture Park La Palomba, located just outside Matera, Italy, is an open-air museum set in a reclaimed quarry. The park showcases contemporary sculptures by Italian and international artists, harmonizing with the natural landscape. It offers a tranquil escape and a unique blend of art and nature.
Open 24 hours
Belvedere - Raffaele Giura Longo - storico
The Belvedere Raffaele Giura Longo offers a panoramic vista of Matera's ancient Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Named after the noted local historian, this viewpoint provides an immersive introduction to the city's unique beauty and historical depth.
Coop. Amici Del Turista
Coop. Amici Del Turista is a tourist information center in Matera, Italy, a city famous for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi) and rich history. The cooperative provides visitors with guidance, maps, and curated experiences to explore Matera's unique cultural and historical attractions.
Mon open 24 hours · Thu–Sun open 24 hours
Monumento ai caduti
The Monumento ai Caduti, located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera, is a war memorial commemorating the lives lost during wars. Inaugurated in 1926, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Matera.
Cisterne e Pozzi
Explore the ingenious network of cisterns and wells beneath Matera, a testament to the city's resourcefulness in water management. These historic sites offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Matera's inhabitants and the innovative engineering that sustained them for centuries.
Via Madonna delle Virtù
Via Madonna delle Virtù is a picturesque street in Matera, Italy, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone. This historic path offers an unparalleled backdrop for leisurely walks and photography, immersing visitors in the city's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Piazza Giacomo Matteotti
Piazza Giacomo Matteotti serves as a central gathering place in Matera, Italy, offering a blend of modern city life against the backdrop of the ancient Sassi districts. It's a convenient spot for transportation, shopping, and experiencing local culture.
Rione Malve
Rione Malve, in Matera, is known for its rock formations and ancient cave dwellings called 'sassi'. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases a history dating back thousands of years. Wander through winding streets, discover preserved stone houses, and enjoy views from cliffs overlooking the ravines.
Sassi
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.
Piazza delle Costellazioni
Piazza delle Costellazioni is a captivating public square in Matera, known for its artistic installations inspired by the cosmos. It provides a serene escape amidst the city's lively atmosphere and ancient cave dwellings. The square is a gathering place for locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of art, history, and culture.
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