Civita, Matera Travel Guide

Discover Civita in Matera, Italy: A Timeless Blend of Ancient Cave Dwellings, Rich Culture, and Stunning Landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of southern Italy, Civita in Matera offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its ancient cave dwellings, or 'Sassi,' this neighborhood provides a glimpse into a bygone era. As you wander through the narrow, winding streets, you'll find a mix of charming stone houses and historic churches, each telling its own story. The Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the highlight of Civita. These ancient cave dwellings have been inhabited since the Paleolithic period, making them some of the oldest human settlements in the world. Today, they house museums, boutique hotels, and cozy restaurants where you can savor traditional Basilicata cuisine. Beyond its historical allure, Civita in Matera is also a hub for artistic expression. Throughout the year, the neighborhood hosts various cultural events, including art exhibitions, music festivals, and theatrical performances. This vibrant cultural scene, set against the backdrop of ancient stone structures, creates a magical atmosphere that captivates every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes; the streets are cobbled and steep.
Visit the Matera Cathedral for panoramic views of the Sassi.
Try the local bread, Pane di Matera, a must-try delicacy.
Book guided tours in advance to explore the cave dwellings in depth.
Check the local event calendar for festivals and cultural activities during your stay.

Explore Civita: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Civita

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Best Attractions

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Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio

Discover Matera's magnificent 13th-century cathedral, a stunning blend of Romanesque architecture, religious art, and panoramic views of the Sassi.

4.6

Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

Explore ancient cave dwellings, rock churches, and breathtaking landscapes in this UNESCO-listed park near Matera, Basilicata.

4.6

Palombaro lungo

Explore Matera's hidden depths: Discover the Palombaro Lungo, an ancient underground cistern beneath the city's main square.

4.5

Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera

Explore Matera's ancient rock-cut history at Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio, a captivating museum within the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sassi di Matera.

4.9

Best landmarks in Civita

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Sassi di Matera

Discover the ancient cave dwellings and rich history of Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and unique experiences.

4.8

Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera

Discover the charm and history of Casa Grotta, a fascinating cave dwelling in the heart of Matera's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.6

Sasso Caveoso

Explore the enchanting Sasso Caveoso in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient cave dwellings and rich cultural heritage.

4.8

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita

Discover the magic of Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, a unique cave hotel in Matera blending history with modern luxury for an unforgettable stay.

4.8

Best restaurants in Civita

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Trattoria del Caveoso

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria del Caveoso in Matera, where every dish tells a story through its flavors and heritage.

4.5

Ristorante Spaghetteria Miseria e Nobiltà Matera

Savor authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Spaghetteria Miseria e Nobiltà in Matera – where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

4.4

Giù a Sud | Bistrot nei Sassi

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Giù a Sud in Matera's stunning Sassi district, where every dish tells a story.

4.6

Osteria Pico

Discover Osteria Pico in Matera: A culinary haven where traditional Italian flavors meet warm hospitality amidst historic charm.

4.4

Best bars in Civita

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AREA 8

Discover AREA 8 in Matera, a cocktail bar and event venue offering exceptional drinks, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

4.5

zipa cafè

Experience the charm of Matera at Zipa Cafè, a delightful bar offering local flavors and a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

4.7

di bitonto caffè luxury shop

Experience luxury and exquisite flavors at Di Bitonto Caffè, a premier café in the heart of Matera, Italy.

4.4

Vogue Bar Di Raucci Giuliano & C. S.A.S.

Discover Vogue Bar in Matera: a cozy retreat with delightful drinks and snacks, perfect for unwinding amidst the city's historic charm.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Civita

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AREA 8

Discover the heart of Matera's nightlife at AREA 8, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable evenings.

4.5

Midnight Pub Live Matera

Discover the lively nightlife at Midnight Pub Live Matera, where delicious food, live music, and good times await every night.

4.3

Pink Blue Bar

Discover the lively Pink Blue Bar in Matera, where delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

4.2

The Boulevard

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Matera at The Boulevard, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Civita

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Sassi in Miniatura

Explore the enchanting Sassi in Miniatura, a souvenir store offering beautifully crafted miniatures of Matera's iconic cave dwellings and local artisan goods.

4.6

Lucia Nicastro Concept Store

Explore unique women's fashion at Lucia Nicastro Concept Store in Matera, where contemporary style meets local artisan craftsmanship.

4.3

Unique Store Italy for Matera

Explore Unique Store Italy in Matera for authentic local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of this historic city.

5.0

Il bugigattolo

Explore Il bugigattolo, Matera's charming souvenir store, offering unique handcrafted treasures that reflect the city's rich culture and artistry.

4.3

Explore Civita on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Civita, mapped for you.

Civita Essentials

Civita is located in the heart of Matera, easily accessible from other neighborhoods such as Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. You can reach Civita on foot, as the city is compact, and walking is the best way to soak in the historical architecture. If you are coming from the Matera train station, it's about a 20-minute walk or you can take a local taxi for a quicker route.
Civita is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. There are no trains or buses that operate within the neighborhood itself. Bicycles can be rented from various shops in Matera if you wish to explore beyond Civita. Taxis are also available for trips to other parts of Matera or nearby attractions.
Civita is generally a safe area for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any tourist destination, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. While no specific high-crime areas exist, it is wise to stay cautious and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police, 118 for medical emergencies, and 115 for fire services. Local hospitals and medical clinics are available in Matera. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies can be found throughout the city for minor health concerns.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets, and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful; don't eat or drink on public transit. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; don't be overly loud or disruptive. Eating & Drinking: Do savor local cuisine and accept food offers; don't waste food or be rude about the offerings.
To experience Civita like a local, visit the small artisan shops and local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and traditional foods. Engage with the local residents, who are often eager to share stories about the area's rich history. Don't miss the chance to try local specialties like 'pane di Matera' and 'caciocavallo' cheese. Join a local cooking class or food tour to delve deeper into the culinary traditions of the region.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Civita

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Civita. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa/Mi dispiace
  [skoo-sah/mee dee-spyah-che]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-scoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vattene!
  [vah-tteh-neh]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doht-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illMi sento male
  [mee sehn-toh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh kohs-tah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel prehts-soh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Le dieci e mezza
  [leh dyeh-chee eh mehts-sah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [ee-eh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [dweh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-ttroh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [seh-ee]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oh-ttoh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoh-ee mohs-trahr-mee (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyet-toh (pehr)]

History of Civita

Civita, the oldest part of Matera, has roots that stretch back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting human habitation since the Paleolithic era. The area's unique rock formations provided natural shelters, leading to the establishment of some of the earliest communities in the region. The Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, represents the evolution of these prehistoric settlements into a complex urban landscape.
During the Byzantine period, Civita became a significant religious center, with the establishment of numerous churches and monasteries. The rock-cut churches, adorned with Byzantine frescoes, showcase the blend of faith and artistry that characterized this era. By the Middle Ages, Civita was fortified, reflecting the need for protection amid the turbulent political landscape of southern Italy.
In the 16th century, as Matera expanded, Civita began to flourish as a socio-economic hub. The population grew, leading to the construction of new buildings and the development of trade routes. The Sassi became populated with cave dwellings (sassi) that were intricately carved into the limestone, representing a unique adaptation to the environment and a distinct architectural style that is still celebrated today.
Post-World War II, Civita, like much of Matera, faced significant challenges. The living conditions in the sassi were dire, leading to widespread abandonment. By the 1950s, the Italian government intervened, relocating residents and initiating a campaign to rehabilitate the area. This period marked a stark contrast to the earlier vibrancy of Civita, as it fell into neglect and decay.
In the late 20th century, efforts to restore Civita and the surrounding Sassi gained momentum, culminating in recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. This sparked a cultural renaissance, transforming Civita into a center for artists, filmmakers, and tourists. Today, the neighborhood is celebrated for its cultural heritage, hosting festivals, art exhibitions, and culinary events that honor its rich history while looking towards a sustainable future.