Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana: A Timeless Landscape
Explore ancient cave dwellings, rock churches, and breathtaking landscapes in this UNESCO-listed park near Matera, Basilicata.
The Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, a protected natural reserve in Basilicata, Italy, offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Characterized by its unique rock formations, cave churches, and prehistoric settlements, the park provides breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera and a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
A brief summary to Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana
- Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT
- +390835336166
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the park's trails, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit the Murgia Timone Belvedere for panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera, especially stunning at sunset.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the park's history, archaeology, and natural features.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Download a map of the park's trails to help navigate the area.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sassi di Matera, reach the park by walking across the valley. The most direct route starts near the Piazza San Pietro Barisano. Follow the marked trails leading towards the Murgia Timone Belvedere, a popular viewpoint. The walk takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and chosen route. Be prepared for some uphill sections and uneven terrain.
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Public Transport
From Matera city center, take a local bus towards the Parco della Murgia Materana. Miccolis operates bus lines in Matera, including services that connect the city center with the park. Check the bus schedules for the 'Sassi Line' or buses heading towards Murgia Timone. A single ticket costs around €1.50 if purchased on board. Alight at the Murgia Timone visitor center to start exploring the park.
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Taxi
From Matera city center, a taxi ride to Parco della Murgia Materana, specifically the Murgia Timone area, takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Taxi services are available in Matera, with taxi stands in Piazza Matteotti. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
Discover more about Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Belvedere Murgia Timone
5.3 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of Sassi di Matera from Belvedere Murgia Timone, a must-see observation deck for every traveler.
Ponte Tibetano della Gravina
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Ponte Tibetano della Gravina, a stunning bridge in Matera offering panoramic views and an unforgettable experience amidst nature's beauty.
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa, where ancient cave dwellings meet modern luxury in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso
5.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, a captivating church in the heart of Matera's ancient landscape.
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso,Matera,Italie
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a scenic jewel in Matera showcasing ancient architecture and vibrant local culture.
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
5.8 km
Explore the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza San Pietro Caveoso in Matera, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso
5.8 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso, a historical square in Matera surrounded by stunning architecture and rich culture.
MateraCulturale
5.8 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Matera at MateraCulturale, your essential visitor center for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
MUSMA - Museo della Scultura Contemporanea
5.8 km
Explore the MUSMA in Matera, a contemporary sculpture museum blending modern art with the historical essence of this ancient city.
Ape Calessino Tour Matera
5.9 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera in classic style with Ape Calessino Tours – a unique travel experience through history and culture.
Antica Civita
5.9 km
Discover the enchanting Antica Civita, a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Matera, offering unique accommodations and warm hospitality.
Matera Culturale
6.0 km
Explore the enchanting city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient cave dwellings, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Piazza Duomo
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant culture and history at Piazza Duomo, the heart of Matera, Italy, surrounded by stunning architecture and local charm.
Piazza del Sedile
6.0 km
Discover the charm of Piazza del Sedile in Matera, a vibrant square steeped in history and culture, perfect for soaking in local life and stunning architecture.
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
6.0 km
Discover the magic of Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, a unique cave hotel in Matera blending history with modern luxury for an unforgettable stay.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chiesa Rupestre di San Nicola all'Ofra
2.7 km
Explore a medieval rock-hewn church near Matera, featuring stunning views and ancient frescoes in a unique cave setting.
Piazza delle Costellazioni
3.4 km
Discover the celestial beauty of Piazza delle Costellazioni in Matera, where art and history blend in a captivating public space.
Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce
4.8 km
Explore the ancient Chiesa Rupestre della Madonna della Croce in Matera, a rock-cut church with remarkable Byzantine frescoes and historical significance.
Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte
5.3 km
Discover the historical beauty of Chiesa Rupestre di Madonna delle Tre Porte in Matera, a captivating rock-hewn chapel steeped in ancient culture and spirituality.
Villaggio neolitico
5.4 km
Discover the ancient roots of Matera at this Neolithic village, where Italy's first farmers left their mark on the Murgia plateau.
Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione
5.4 km
Discover the captivating Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione, a historical gem in Matera, showcasing stunning frescoes and rock-hewn architecture.
Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini
5.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage of Matera at Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini, your gateway to exploration and discovery.
Cisterne e Pozzi
5.5 km
Uncover Matera's hidden depths: Explore the ancient cisterns and wells that sustained this remarkable city for centuries.
Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo
5.6 km
Explore a traditional cave dwelling in Matera's Sassi district and step back in time to experience peasant life at Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo.
MOOM / Matera Olive Oil Museum
5.6 km
Explore Matera's liquid gold at the Olive Oil Museum, a journey through history in a 16th-century underground mill.
Vicinato a Pozzo - Parco della Storia dell'uomo - Museo della civiltà contadina
5.6 km
Discover Matera's soul at Vicinato a Pozzo: An immersive journey through history, culture, and the heart of the Sassi's ancient rural life.
Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve
5.6 km
Explore Matera's Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, a rock-hewn church with ancient frescoes and a rich Benedictine history.
Rione Malve
5.7 km
Explore Rione Malve in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient cave dwellings and captivating history, offering a unique Italian experience.
Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera
5.7 km
Explore a traditional cave dwelling in Matera's Sassi and step back in time to experience peasant life in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sasso Caveoso
5.7 km
Explore Sasso Caveoso, Matera: An ancient cave city revealing millennia of history, unique architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Pane&pomodoro
5.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pane&Pomodoro, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Matera.
La Lopa
5.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Lopa in Matera - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a historic setting.
Trattoria del Caveoso
5.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria del Caveoso in Matera – where tradition meets exquisite taste amidst breathtaking landscapes.
L'Abbondanza Lucana
5.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at L'Abbondanza Lucana in Matera—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
DIMITRIA | Il ristorante
5.7 km
Experience the essence of Italian cuisine at Dimitria Ristorante in Matera, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
La Grotta Del Gusto
5.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Grotta Del Gusto in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
Ristorante Soul Kitchen - Cucina per l' Anima
5.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Soul Kitchen in Matera - where every dish tells a story.
Ristorante Francesca
5.8 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Ristorante Francesca in Matera - where tradition meets elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Keiv Ristorante
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Keiv Ristorante in Matera – where every dish tells a story.
Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Van Gogh in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and fresh seafood.
Baccanti
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Matera at Baccanti, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
La Pignata
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pignata in Matera - renowned for its delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
Osteria Belvedere al Vecchio Frantoio
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Belvedere al Vecchio Frantoio in Matera – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Regiacorte - L’eccellenza del Territorio
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Regiacorte in Matera - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.
Taverna La Focagna
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taverna La Focagna in Matera—where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Il Forno Sassi - Martino
5.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Matera at Il Forno Sassi, where artisanal breads and pastries delight every visitor.
La Grotta Della Petrarola - Prodotti Tipici Lucani - Degustazioni - Panificio
5.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Lucanian cuisine at La Grotta Della Petrarola, your gourmet destination in Matera.
Arte Decorativa di Maristella Darretta
5.7 km
Explore the artistry of Matera at Arte Decorativa di Maristella Darretta, where every handcrafted piece tells a unique story of Italian craftsmanship.
Des Boutique
5.7 km
Discover unique fashion at Des Boutique in Matera, where style meets the charm of Italy's historic landscape.
Il Bottegaccio di Daddiego Mario
5.7 km
Discover the heart of Matera's artisan culture at Il Bottegaccio di Daddiego Mario, where creativity and craftsmanship come alive.
Artempo Italia Di Nicola Di Cuia
5.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and artisanal gifts at Artempo Italia, Matera's charming novelty store filled with Italian craftsmanship.
GocciaGoccia
5.8 km
Discover the artistic charm of Matera at GocciaGoccia, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a boutique experience.
L'Antica Credenza
6.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at L'Antica Credenza, Matera's premier sandwich shop and grocery store.
TAU - Libri e Articoli Religiosi
6.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of Matera at TAU - Libri e Articoli Religiosi, a unique store offering exquisite hand-crafted religious articles and rare books.
BG ARTE VISITE GUIDATE
6.0 km
Explore Matera's rich cultural heritage at BG ARTE VISITE GUIDATE, a unique visitor center and craft store in the heart of the city.
BG Arte
6.0 km
Explore BG Arte in Matera for an authentic taste of local craftsmanship and unique handcrafted treasures.
Elisa & Janna
6.0 km
Explore Elisa & Janna, a premier jewelry destination in Matera, offering exquisite handcrafted designs that celebrate local artistry.
Matera gift shop
6.0 km
Explore Matera Gift Shop for authentic local crafts and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of this historic city.
Il Sedile Srl
6.0 km
Discover authentic craftsmanship and unique souvenirs at Il Sedile, the charming gift shop in the heart of Matera, Italy.
Personalizzami Sas di Acito Mario & C.
6.0 km
Explore the charm of Matera at Personalizzami Sas di Acito Mario & C., where unique gifts and local craftsmanship come together to create unforgettable memories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrazza StoneAge
5.6 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of art, culture, and delicious cuisine at Terrazza StoneAge in the heart of Matera.
1806 Cocktail bar
5.6 km
Discover the art of cocktail crafting at 1806 Cocktail Bar in Matera, where modern mixology meets Italian tradition in a chic setting.
zipa cafè
5.7 km
Discover the unique charm of Zipa Cafè, a perfect retreat for tourists in the historic city of Matera, offering delightful drinks and snacks.
Kas67 Birreria
5.7 km
Discover Kas67 Birreria in Matera - a vibrant gastropub offering a unique selection of craft beers and delicious local cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
La Dispensa di Aquatio
5.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy at La Dispensa di Aquatio, a charming restaurant in the heart of Matera, offering a delightful culinary journey.
14th American Pub
5.7 km
Discover the lively 14th American Pub in Matera, where American cuisine meets a vibrant nightlife in a welcoming atmosphere.
AREA 8
5.8 km
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.
Osteria San Pietro
5.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at Osteria San Pietro, where traditional cuisine meets breathtaking views of the historic Sasso Barisano.
Enoteca Felix
5.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Enoteca Felix, a charming bar in Matera offering exquisite wines and local delicacies in a cozy atmosphere.
Terrazza Cavaliere
5.8 km
Discover Terrazza Cavaliere, a picturesque bar in Matera offering stunning views, local wines, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Shibuya
5.9 km
Experience the essence of Southern Italy at Shibuya, a cocktail bar in Matera known for its small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
The Boulevard
5.9 km
Experience the charm of Matera at The Boulevard, a cozy bar offering local drinks, cultural vibes, and a perfect spot to unwind after exploring.
L'Antica Credenza - Bistrot
5.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Matera at L'Antica Credenza, a charming bistro offering local specialties and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Filly
6.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Filly in Matera, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await every traveler in this historic city.
Bar Sedile
6.0 km
Discover the charm of Bar Sedile in Matera, where delightful coffee, local flavors, and warm hospitality await you in a vibrant atmosphere.