Matera Underground: Into the rocks Music and Wine Experience

This review explores an intriguing adventure that combines the sounds, tastes, and stories of Matera’s underground world. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed information and reviews paint a vivid picture of what you can expect from this immersive experience.

What makes this tour special? It’s set in a captivating underground space carved into the rocks of Matera, where music performances blend seamlessly with a curated wine tasting. We love the idea of exploring the city’s hidden subterranean spaces while enjoying sensory-rich moments. The musical performances, guided insights from a sommelier, and the chance to understand how music influences wine appreciation are genuinely compelling.

A potential consideration is the duration—only 1.5 hours—which might feel a bit short for travelers wanting a more in-depth experience. Plus, because it’s held underground and involves wine, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or anyone avoiding alcohol. This experience would suit travelers who appreciate good music, local wines, and unique historic settings, especially those with a curious palate and an interest in sensory exploration.

Good To Know

• Unique Setting: Experience a wine and music tasting in a historic underground space carved into Matera’s rocks.
• Sensory Fusion: Discover how sound and taste influence each other, guided by professional musicians and a sommelier.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The hypogeum’s atmosphere offers a captivating backdrop that enhances the experience.
• Educational Aspect: Learn how music can alter wine tasting profiles and deepen your appreciation of both.
• Limited Duration: The 1.5-hour experience is compact but packed with memorable moments.
• Exclusivity: This is a specialized CREA Experience, offering an intimate, curated journey into Matera’s subterranean culture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Matera Underground: Into the Rocks Experience

Setting the Scene: Matera’s Hidden Depths

As you approach the meeting point, located just a few steps from the main square in Matera—Vittorio Veneto square—you’re immediately transported into a different world. The guide, welcoming and knowledgeable, leads you into a vast underground site of about 500 square meters, dating from the 1500s-1700s. This space, a visible testament to Matera’s water collection systems and underground architecture, offers an authentic vibe that immediately sparks curiosity.

Walking through the narrow, rocky passageways into the hypogeum feels like stepping into a secret local world. The space is a beautiful example of Matera’s blend of archaeological and cultural continuity, with cisterns and cellars adding to the atmospheric allure.

The Experience Itself: Music, Wine, and Stories

The core of the tour is a musical performance set within this subterranean ambiance. Expect works by professional composers and musicians, performed live in a space that amplifies every note and harmony. According to reviews, the sound quality is excellent, with the music complementing the natural acoustics of the underground site.

While the music sets the tone, the guiding sommelier introduces you to a selection of wines, each chosen to highlight different textures and profiles. The pairing is designed to demonstrate how music and wine influence each other, with insights shared about how auditory stimuli can enhance the perception of wines. Reviewers have noted that this approach makes the tasting more engaging, transforming it from a simple sip to an interactive exploration.

The Curated Wine Tasting

The wines selected are described as high-quality and carefully chosen to match the musical pieces. The sommelier, often praised for their expertise and personable style, explains how certain styles of wine can evoke specific emotions or complement particular musical genres. You might find that a sparkling wine enhances the sparkling textures of a lively piece, or a lush red pairs beautifully with a lush harmony.

Guests have expressed that this isn’t just about drinking wine; it’s about understanding how sensory inputs shape our tasting experience. One reviewer mentioned that the sommelier offered “personal insights that made the wine feel like a part of the music itself.”

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What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the experience accessible and engaging. Guests appreciate the stunning acoustics and the intimate setting, which makes every note and sip feel special. The excellent wine selection and the chance to learn how music can influence taste perception seem to be the standout features.

Some guests noted that the experience is quite relaxing and interactive, perfect for those who enjoy both music and wine in a unique context. However, a few pointed out that the duration is somewhat short — about an hour and a half — so it’s best suited for those seeking a compact, high-quality activity rather than an extensive tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes a specialized wine tasting guided by a professional sommelier, along with a live musical performance in a historic underground setting. The guided tour of the site adds contextual depth, helping you appreciate the historical significance of the space.

Not included are transportation to the site—so plan to arrive on your own—and meals are not part of this experience, focusing solely on wine and music. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as you’ll be underground where temperatures can vary.

Practicalities: Timing, Cost, and Booking

The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours, with check availability needed for specific start times. Priced at around $168.79 per person, it may seem on the higher side for a short activity, but the value lies in the curated, intimate experience that combines history, sensory delight, and cultural insight.

Booking flexibility is offered, with options to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are not yet firm. The tour is not accessible for people with mobility impairments, given the underground setting.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This experience is perfect for music lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how sensory stimuli interact. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path activities in Matera. Those interested in history and architecture will also appreciate the setting, which offers a tangible connection to the city’s underground past.

It’s ideal for intimate groups or couples looking for a special, memorable activity that combines culture and sensory exploration. Not suitable for children or anyone with mobility issues, but perfect for adults eager to deepen their appreciation for both music and wine.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Matera Underground: Into the Rocks Music and Wine Experience offers a rare chance to combine historic exploration with sensory indulgence. The intimate atmosphere, curated wine and music pairing, and expert guidance make it a standout activity for those wanting something truly different from typical sightseeing. The setting is spectacular, and the storytelling from guides and the sommelier adds depth and context to the experience.

If you are someone who appreciates fine wine and captivating live music, and you’re open to discovering how sensory interactions can elevate tasting experiences, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Matera visit. Its short, focused format makes it a perfect add-on or a quick cultural fix that leaves a lasting impression.

However, if you prefer longer, more comprehensive tours or need accessibility options, this might feel a little limited. Still, for its exclusivity, authentic ambiance, and thoughtful curation, it delivers excellent value—especially for those eager to enjoy Matera’s underground secrets in a meaningful way.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, the experience is designed for adults and involves wine tasting, which is not suitable for children.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the site is not included; you’ll need to make your own way there.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
No, the experience focuses on wine and music; meals are not part of the package.

Is the site accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the underground setting is not accessible for those with mobility impairments.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as it’s an underground environment.

What kind of wines are served?
A curated selection of high-quality wines is offered, chosen to enhance the musical experience.

Can I specify start times?
Availability varies; check the schedule when booking to see available times.

Who guides the experience?
A professional sommelier and musical performers guide and perform during the experience.

This tour blends history, sensory delight, and culture into a memorable 90-minute journey underground in Matera. Perfect for those wanting a unique, intimate look at the city’s subterranean charm, paired with the simple pleasure of good wine and beautiful music.

You can check if your dates are available here: