Walk the Murgia plateau from Matera to visit Byzantine rock churches and watch sunset from the Belvedere. This guided 2–3 hour tour blends geology, frescoed caves, and panoramic views with easy, uneven trails.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
On the Murgia plateau the wind lines the limestone with ridges and hollows; your guide leads the group away from Matera’s stone streets and into a landscape carved by people and time.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires steady footing and basic walking endurance for short rocky climbs.
Wildlife
History
The Murgia plateau preserves centuries of monastic cave-dwelling and medieval fresco art; many churches were actively used by hermits from the Middle Ages onward.
Conservation
The Regional Park protects both cultural monuments and fragile karst ecosystems—stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing archaeological sites and native vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Walking Tour in the Regional Park of Rupestrian Churches today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Trails are rocky and uneven—trail shoes or hiking boots give better traction and ankle support.
Bring at least 1 liter of water
There’s limited shade on the plateau and the walk is exposed—hydrate before and during the tour.
Time for sunset if you want the best light
Book late-afternoon departures; the guide may adjust timing based on sunset, which dramatically changes the views.
Dress respectfully for rock churches
Wear modest clothing for sacred interiors and be prepared to follow rules about photography and touching frescoes.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Grippy shoes protect on uneven limestone trails and short scrambles.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated on exposed sections of the plateau.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
The plateau offers little shade—sun protection prevents fatigue and burns.
summer
Compact camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures fresco details and sunset panoramas; low light may challenge older devices.