Attractions and Places To See in Matera - Top 20

Matera is renowned for its ancient history. The most iconic are the Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings that form the historic heart of the city. Other key historical sites include the Matera Cathedral, a 13th-century Romanesque masterpiece, and the colossal underground cistern, Palombaro Lungo, beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto. You can also explore numerous rock-hewn churches, such as Santa Maria de Idris, and visit furnished Casa Grotta museums to understand past living conditions.

Yes, Matera offers stunning natural landscapes and viewpoints. The Parco della Murgia Materana, located across the Gravina river, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Sassi, especially from the Murgia Timone Belvedere. The deep Gravina of Matera canyon itself is a dramatic natural feature. For a unique perspective, consider crossing the Suspension bridge over the Gravina, which offers excellent photographic opportunities of the Sassi from the Murgia plateau.

Matera and its surroundings offer various outdoor activities. You can explore the Parco della Murgia Materana, which is ideal for hiking and discovering prehistoric sites and rupestrian churches. For specific routes, consider the easy hikes in Matera, which include a loop through the historic center or a trail to the Craco Ghost Town. If you're into cycling, there are MTB trails and gravel biking routes that take you through the region's diverse landscapes.

Matera offers several attractions suitable for families. Exploring the Sassi di Matera itself is an adventure, with its labyrinthine streets and cave dwellings. Visiting a Casa Grotta museum provides an engaging glimpse into historical life. The Matera Cathedral and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul are also accessible and interesting for older children. For a broader experience, the Parco della Murgia Materana offers space for exploration and easy walks.

The best time to visit Matera is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant for exploring the Sassi and the surrounding natural park, with comfortable temperatures for walking and outdoor activities. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cooler and can be damp, though the city retains its charm year-round.

Yes, visiting the Sassi di Matera is the highlight of any trip. These ancient cave dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can wander through the two main districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, which are filled with homes, churches, hotels, and restaurants carved into the rock. To understand the history and daily life, consider visiting Casa Grotta in the Sassi of Matera, a furnished cave house museum, or watching the video presentation at Casa Noha for context.

Matera offers several cultural and art institutions. The MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture of Matera) is uniquely housed within Palazzo Pomarici in Sasso Caveoso, displaying contemporary sculptures within excavated chambers. The 17th-century Palazzo Lanfranchi hosts the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata, showcasing regional art and history.

For breathtaking views of the Sassi, several spots are highly recommended. The Matera Cathedral, situated on the city's highest point, offers panoramic vistas of Sasso Barisano. Piazzetta Pascoli provides evocative views, particularly of Sasso Caveoso and the Duomo's bell tower. The Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio (also known as the "Three Arches") in the upper city also offers unforgettable views. For a view from across the Gravina canyon, head to the Murgia Timone Belvedere within the Parco della Murgia Materana.

Yes, about 50 kilometers from Matera lies Craco, the ghost town. This suggestive abandoned settlement, which was evacuated due to a landslide in 1963, offers a unique and haunting experience. You can take a guided tour along a secured itinerary to explore its clinging houses and the Norman tower. It's a popular destination for visitors interested in historical ruins and dramatic landscapes. You can even find easy hiking trails that include the Craco Ghost Town.

Matera is home to a vast number of rock-hewn churches, with around 155 scattered throughout the Sassi and the Murgia. Many contain ancient frescoes. Notable examples include Santa Maria de Idris, dramatically perched on the rocky spur of Montirone, and Santa Lucia alle Malve. Just outside Matera, the Crypt of the Original Sin is a beautifully frescoed cave church showcasing significant examples of early medieval painting. Many of these rock churches are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into Matera's spiritual and artistic heritage.

Visitors consistently praise Matera for its unique historical atmosphere and stunning visual appeal. The experience of exploring the ancient Sassi di Matera, with its labyrinthine streets and cave dwellings, is often highlighted. The panoramic views from various points, especially at sunset, are also a favorite. The blend of ancient history, unique architecture, and the dramatic natural setting of the Gravina canyon creates a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Yes, there are several options for easy walks and circular routes. Within Matera, you can take an easy loop tour through the historic center to explore the Sassi at a comfortable pace. Another easy option is the "View of Matera from the caves" loop, which offers different perspectives of the city's unique landscape. These routes allow you to immerse yourself in Matera's charm without strenuous effort.