Matera Walking Tour with Askos Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderate fitness; involves walking on uneven surfaces and some mild inclines.
Overview
Walk through history on a 2-hour guided tour of Matera’s ancient cave district with Askos Tours. Discover the stone-hewn homes and frescoed churches that make this UNESCO site an unforgettable experience.
Matera 2 hours Walking Tour
Starting from €275 | Matera - European Capital of Culture 2019
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site and 2019 European Capital of Culture. Discover the enchanting Sasso Caveoso, explore ancient cave dwellings, and visit the stunning Church of St. Lucia alle Malve. Experience the rich history and breathtaking views that have inspired filmmakers.
Explore the essential of Matera -European Capital of Culture 2019- in 2 hours walking tour
Rates
Group of 1-5 people: € 275 Group of 6-10 people: € 305 Group of 11-15 people: € 335
Maximum 15 people per group | All ages
Duration
2 hours
About
Live a suggestive walk of 2 hours in the history of a modern city still stuck to its origins, accompanied by a specialized local guide.
This tourwill allow you to explore the most picturesque corners of one of the Sassi di Matera, UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture 2019: “Sasso Caveoso”.
Enjoy fantastic views of the whole of Matera, the ancient city overlooked by the Cathedral bell-tower and the Sasso Caveoso.
Then go into the heart of the Sasso Caveoso and view the unique and beautiful cave buildings which have been inhabited since Palaeolithic times.
Visit the church of San Pietro Caveoso whose Baroque facade belies a much older history. To really connect with the regions ancient inhabitants enjoy the unique experience of a visit to a furnished cave-house (casagrotta) decorated according to ancient traditions.
You will be enchanted by the beauty of the splendid frescoes of one of the most interesting cave-churches in the whole area, the Church of St. Lucia alle Malve.
Marvel at this remarkable spectacle of urban development frequently utilized by great directors such as Pier Paolo Pasolini and Mel Gibson.
THIS TOUR CAN BE CUSTOMIZED TO CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS AND REQUESTS.
Language: English, Spanish, French, German
Itinerary
- Meeting in Piazzetta Pascoli where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the Sassi and the Murge upland
- View of the Palazzo Lanfranchi, which houses the Museum of modern and medieval art of Basilicata
- Walk in the streets where great directors such as Pasolini and Mel Gibson have made memorable movies
- Go right in the heart of Sasso Caveoso
- Visit the church of San Pietro Caveoso
- Visit a cave-house (casagrotta) typically furnished according to ancient traditions, and be enchanted by the beauty of the splendid frescoes of one of the most interesting cave-churches in the whole area, the Church of St. Lucia alle Malve
- Return to Piazzetta Pascoli
Included
- Guidance and assistance for the entire duration of the tour by a certified local guide
Not Included
- Meals
- Tickets for a rupestrian church with frescoes and a typically furnished casa-grotta
- Transportation
Additional Info
- Activity level: moderate
- Comfortable shoes are recommended
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy walking shoes
The tour covers uneven limestone paths and cave interiors where solid footwear ensures comfort and safety.
Bring a camera with good low-light capability
Interior cave churches have limited lighting—capturing fresco details requires a camera that performs well in dim conditions.
Stay hydrated
Carry water especially during warmer months; the walking tour involves moderate physical activity outdoors.
Check weather forecast before booking
Tours run rain or shine, but bring a raincoat or umbrella if showers are forecasted to remain comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian hoopoe birds often seen nesting in stone crevices
- Mediterranean wall lizards basking along sun-warmed rocks
History
Matera's cave dwellings, known as Sassi, have been inhabited continuously since Paleolithic times, making it one of the oldest living settlements in the world.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving the fragile cave structures and managing tourist flow to protect historic frescoes and habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bari
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for walking on rough and uneven stone paths comfortably.
Light jacket or raincoat
Protects against spring showers and cool breezes in cave interiors.
spring specific
Sunhat and sunscreen
Essential for protection from strong Mediterranean sun during summer tours.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through moderate walking and dry conditions.