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Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio: A Journey into Matera's Rock-Cut History

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

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The Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio in Matera is a captivating museum showcasing the city's ancient rock-cut architecture. Carved into the soft limestone hills, the complex reveals the ingenuity and craftsmanship of past inhabitants through its cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches. Visitors can explore the intricate frescoes and remarkable architecture that offer insights into the cultural and spiritual life of the communities that once thrived here.

A brief summary to Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera

  • Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces within the cave complex.
  • Consider visiting during the off-season for a less crowded and more intimate experience.
  • Check the official website for updated opening hours and any special events or guided tours.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Sassi di Matera to fully appreciate the historical atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Matera city center, you can easily walk to Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio. From Piazza Vittorio Veneto, head towards the Sassi area, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. Once you reach the Sassi, look for signs pointing to Via Sette Dolori. The destination will be on your right, just before you reach the end of the street.

  • Public Transport

    From Bari, you can take a direct bus to Matera. The bus departs from the Bari bus terminal and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Ticket prices range from €6 to €10. Once you arrive at the Matera bus station, it's about a 15-minute walk to the Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio. Follow the signs towards the Sassi district and then to Via Sette Dolori. A local bus line, 'Linea Sassi', can take you closer to the historical center for €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Matera, and a ride from the Matera bus station or Piazza Vittorio Veneto to Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio will be a short trip. Expect to pay around €10-€15, depending on traffic and the exact starting point.

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Discover more about Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio - Matera

The Complesso Rupestre San Giorgio, nestled in the historic city of Matera, invites visitors to explore the extraordinary history and culture of this ancient settlement. This captivating museum is renowned for its rock-hewn churches and ancient dwellings, providing a glimpse into the lives of people who inhabited the area centuries ago. Set within the iconic Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the complex provides a stunning backdrop for exploration. As you wander through the complex, you'll encounter meticulously preserved architecture reflecting the region's unique craftsmanship, making it a treasure trove for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The site, winding through one of the most exclusive paths of the Sasso Barisano, was once an ancient cave shared by men and animals. Over time, it was transformed into a church, then an olive oil mill, and finally, in the 17th century, a cellar for wine production and preservation. The complex also features an intricate system for collecting rainwater, with channels carved into the rock and six cisterns that can be explored on multiple levels. The magnificent statue of San Giorgio, an ancient sculpture of rare workmanship carved in hard stone, restores the complex's lost sacredness. The itinerary is completed by reaching ancient dwellings, where the original structure can still be admired.

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