Dive into the captivating world of Matera’s Sassi – an ancient urban landscape carved into limestone cliffs. This 1.5-hour English-led tour promises an immersive exploration of the historic cave dwellings and hidden rock churches that earned this Italian city its UNESCO World Heritage status. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the labyrinth of winding alleys, sharing the remarkable story of how this remarkable city has risen from the ashes of poverty to become a thriving cultural hub. Prepare to be enchanted as you step into the past and uncover the secrets that lie within Matera’s enchanting Sassi.
Good To Know
- Guided 1.5-hour tour through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sassi di Matera, covering the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods.
- Tour includes entry to a cave house to experience local living conditions, descent into the Matera Underground, and visit to a hidden rock church with historical frescoes.
- Tour highlights the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, with expert guides providing insights on ancient underground structures, limestone architecture, and movie filming locations.
- Pricing is €30 per person for the English-led tour, which includes access to ancient water cisterns, hypogea, and panoramic views from Matera Cathedral.
- Suitable for adults, teens, and children, with a flexible cancellation policy and easy online booking process.
Tour Overview
The English Tour in the Sassi of Matera offers a captivating 1.5-hour journey through the UNESCO-listed historic district, immersing visitors in the rock-carved architecture and rich cultural heritage of this ancient Italian city.
Priced at €30 per person, the tour explores the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods, known for their limestone dwellings and unique cave houses.
Guests will discover underground water cisterns, hypogea, and the renowned Matera Cathedral, all while learning about the city’s role as a filming location for iconic movies.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this immersive experience showcases Matera’s captivating beauty and ingenuity.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Matera.
Itinerary and Highlights
On this English Tour through the Sassi of Matera, guests embark on a captivating 1.5-hour journey, exploring the rock-carved architecture and limestone dwellings that define this UNESCO-listed historic district.
Highlights include entering a Cave House, descending into the Matera Underground, and visiting a hidden Rock Church.
The tour showcases the ingenuity of ancient Materani, providing access to ancient water cisterns and hypogea.
Visitors then ascend to the Matera Cathedral, taking in panoramic vistas before discovering movie filming locations from acclaimed works.
Throughout, expert guides bring the storied past to life with rich insights into the city’s history and culture.
Included Experiences
What awaits guests on this captivating tour through Matera’s Sassi? An immersive experience that brings history to life.
Descend into the ancient underground cisterns and hypogea, marveling at the ingenious engineering of Matera’s forebears. Step inside a cave dwelling, witnessing how locals once lived within these limestone abodes.
At the rock church, admire the stunning frescoes and austere beauty that has endured for centuries. The tour also grants access to iconic filming locations, where cinematic magic unfolded.
Throughout, expert guides share their passion, illuminating the unique heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site. An enriching journey into Matera’s remarkable past.
Pricing and Inclusions
Priced affordably at just €30.00 per person, this English-led tour through Matera’s Sassi promises an exceptional value. For this modest fee, guests gain access to a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site and uncover its captivating history. The tour includes entry to a cave house, Matera Underground, and a rock church, offering a rare glimpse into the ingenuity of ancient Materani. Adventurous participants can even explore ancient water cisterns and hypogea. Whether you’re an adult, teenager, or child, this immersive experience showcases the stunning natural and architectural beauty of Matera’s iconic Sassi.
Tour Inclusions | Details |
---|---|
Guided Tour | 1.5 hours in English |
Site Entries | Cave House, Matera Underground, Rock Church |
Access | Ancient Cisterns and Hypogea |
Highlights | Panoramic Cathedral Views, Historic Palaces and Churches |
Movie Locations | "The Gospel According to Matthew", "The Passion of the Christ", "007 NO TIME TO DIE" |
Participant Information
Who can embark on this captivating tour of Matera’s Sassi? Travelers of all ages are welcome to explore the ancient city’s wonders.
The tour caters to:
- Adults aged 18-99, seeking an immersive cultural experience.
- Children aged 11-17, ready to discover the marvels of Matera’s past.
- Infants aged 10 and younger, accompanied by their guardians.
- Participants who select their preferred group and tour date during booking.
This diverse audience can look forward to an unforgettable adventure, guided by experts who’ll unveil the secrets of the Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Prepare to be captivated by the region’s rich history and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.
Accessibility and Cancellation
Travelers can easily secure their spot on this captivating tour, thanks to the convenient booking process. With no upfront payment required, you can reserve your place online with just a few clicks.
And if plans change, you’ve got flexibility – cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, no questions asked.
Once you arrive, the tour’s accessibility is equally impressive. Explore the Sassi’s hidden gems, from a cave house to rock churches, all without navigating tricky terrain.
Whether you’re an adult, teen, or little one, this tour caters to a wide range of participants, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Customer Feedback
Enthusiastic travelers have raved about this captivating tour of the Sassi, praising the knowledgeable guides who share their passion for Matera’s rich history and culture.
Recent reviews highlight the tour’s engaging experiences, with one guest describing their guide, Angela, as "fantastic" for her ability to bring the city’s ancient wonders to life.
Tour highlights include:
Exploring the intricate network of underground cisterns and hypogea, showcasing the ingenious design of Matera’s ancient inhabitants.
Marveling at the stunning panoramic views from the Matera Cathedral, a testament to the architectural prowess of the past.
Discovering the iconic movie locations that have made the Sassi a renowned filming destination.
Immersing oneself in the captivating cave dwellings and rock churches, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Meeting Point and Directions
Conveniently, the meeting point for the English Tour in the Sassi of Matera is at Karma Viaggi Travel Agency, located inside Restaurant La Galleria on Via San Biagio, 15.
From there, you’ll embark on a captivating journey through the iconic Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings that dot the landscape.
The tour starts at the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and culminates at the picturesque Piazza Giovanni Pascoli in the heart of the city.
Along the way, you’ll discover the rich history and culture that have made Matera a renowned destination, with expert guides providing insights every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the guided tour. The narrow alleyways and ancient structures require the guide’s full attention to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Service animals, however, are welcome on the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Sadly, there’s no option to extend the 1.5-hour tour duration. But you’ll be whisked through Matera’s captivating cave houses and historic churches, leaving you eager to explore more of this UNESCO gem on your own.
Do You Offer Private or Group Tours?
The tour company offers both private and group tours, allowing visitors to explore the stunning Sassi of Matera at their own pace or as part of an intimate group experience. Guests can tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?
While audio guides aren’t available, the knowledgeable guides bring the tour to life with captivating storytelling. Enjoy Matera’s fascinating history as they reveal the secrets of the ancient Sassi neighborhoods.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Products During the Tour?
Absolutely! Visitors can explore local artisanal shops and pick up unique mementos during the tour. From handcrafted ceramics to traditional Matera sweets, there’s a wealth of one-of-a-kind souvenirs to discover and bring home.
The Sum Up
Uncover the captivating essence of Matera’s Sassi on this immersive tour. Venture through ancient cave dwellings, marvel at stunning frescoes in secluded rock churches, and soak in panoramic views from the iconic cathedral. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll dive deep into the rich history and culture that defines this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Matera
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Looking for something different? Other Matera activities we've written about
- Matera: 3-hour Private Full Sassi di Matera Guided Tour
- Matera: hike on the path of rock churches
- Hot Air Balloon Flight to Southern Italy: Matera, Sila, Puglia
- From Matera: Day Trip to the 3 Crypts with Entry Ticket
- From Matera: Altamura Cheese and Pastry Tasting Day Trip
- Discover South Italy in Hot air Balloons
- Matera Underground: Into the rocks Music and Wine Experience
- SASSI DI MATERA: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino
- Matera Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local
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- Day in Altamura and Gravina Guided Tour with Lunch in an Osteria
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