Matera: TAM Museum Ticket + tour with one of the founders

Exploring Matera’s TAM Tower Art Museum: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

If you’re visiting Matera and want to see a different side of this storied city, the TAM Tower Art Museum offers a fascinating blend of contemporary creativity and historical charm. This tour, led by one of the museum’s founders, provides an intimate look at the museum’s vision, exhibitions, and the inspiring story of how it all came to be.

What truly sets this experience apart are three things we really appreciate: the chance to hear firsthand about the museum’s origins from a founder, the opportunity to explore two distinct exhibition spaces showcasing works by national and international artists, and the chance to walk through the medieval Torre del Capone and garden—an unusual juxtaposition of old and new.

However, a point to consider is the museum’s accessibility — due to the Sassi’s complex terrain, it might not be suitable for visitors with reduced mobility or wheelchair users. This is a common challenge in Matera but something to keep in mind if you have specific mobility needs.

This tour will appeal especially to those interested in contemporary art, lovers of urban history, and travelers eager to hear authentic stories directly from the museum’s founders. It’s a compact experience that balances insight with a manageable time commitment, making it a great addition to any Matera itinerary.

Good To Know

• Authentic Insight: Guided by one of the museum’s founders, offering a personal perspective on TAM’s founding and vision.
• Unique Setting: Combines contemporary art with the medieval Sassi environment, including the Torre del Capone.
• Cultural Depth: Not just viewing art, but understanding the story of its creation and the museum’s future plans.
• Flexible Experience: Short duration of 1 hour makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Value for Money: At $9 per person, it offers a deep dive into Matera’s modern cultural scene without breaking the bank.
• Accessibility Notice: The museum’s terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the TAM Tower Art Museum Experience

The Museum’s Unique Context

Set right in the heart of Matera’s Sassi, the TAM Tower Art Museum is a modern addition to a landscape often associated with ancient caves and stone streets. Opened on December 1, 2022, the museum was born from the ambitions of young local creatives who wanted to craft a space for contemporary art within this historic setting. Rather than starting with a permanent collection, TAM has focused on hosting temporary exhibitions and collaborating with artists from Italy and beyond.

We loved the idea that this museum isn’t just a repository of works but a living, breathing project that reflects the evolving identity of Matera—a city famous for its ancient stone houses and now embracing modern artistic expressions.

The Guided Tour with a Founder

One of the highlights is the personal tour led by a museum founder. As we wandered through the exhibition spaces, it was inspiring to hear about the challenges and triumphs behind opening TAM. The founder shared anecdotes about the project’s grassroots origins, emphasizing that this was a “museum built from scratch by young people from Matera.”

This personal touch adds depth beyond just viewing the artworks. Our guide explained the thought process behind the exhibitions, revealing how the museum aims to show a new, contemporary Matera—a city that’s not just about its past but its present and future.

The Exhibition Spaces

The museum spans two close locations, accessible via a short walk from each other. The main exhibition area in Via Gradelle Pennino is where most of the current shows are displayed. Expect to see works by national artists and international talents, creating a diverse visual dialogue.

According to reviews, visitors particularly appreciated the quality of the artworks and the fact that the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, balancing innovation with context. One reviewer mentioned that “the artworks were provocative but also accessible, making for engaging viewing.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Medieval Torre del Capone & Garden

Despite the focus on contemporary art, the museum’s setting is deeply rooted in history. You’ll have the chance to walk around the medieval Torre del Capone, a structure that offers an atmospheric contrast to the modern art inside. The adjoining garden adds a tranquil spot to reflect on what you’ve seen, offering a peaceful pause after the exhibits.

Practicalities and Visits

The tour lasts approximately one hour, a manageable time frame that works well if you’re exploring Matera’s Sassi on a tight schedule. The meeting point is in the entrance area on Via Ridola, about 300 meters from the main exhibition location, and the guide walks with you to the second space.

The museum’s operational hours are from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the last entry at 7 p.m. This flexibility allows visitors to plan their visit around other activities. Keep in mind that, due to the terrain, the museum isn’t fully accessible for those with mobility issues, so it’s worth considering if you or a travel companion have specific access needs.

Cost and Value

Priced at just $9 per person, this tour offers impressive value. While it’s a short experience, it captures the essence of the museum’s spirit—combining a guided narrative, access to current exhibitions, and a chance to see the space in a way that casual visits might not provide.

Reviews highlight that for such a modest fee, visitors gain a deeper understanding of contemporary art in Matera and the story of its innovative museum. It’s a great way to add a cultural layer to your trip without overspending.

Additional Considerations

• Waiting times: Some visitors noted that there might be a short wait before entering, especially during busy hours, as staff manage visitor flow carefully.
• Accessibility: As noted, the complex terrain of the Sassi makes access challenging for those with mobility impairments.
• Language options: The tour is available in Italian and English, ensuring most international visitors can enjoy the experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Are interested in contemporary art and want to see how it interacts with historic settings.
• Desire an authentic story directly from someone involved in creating the space.
• Have a short time window but still want a meaningful cultural encounter.
• Are open-minded and curious about new artistic expressions in a city famous for its ancient past.

It’s less suitable for visitors with mobility issues or those seeking a very in-depth or lengthy museum visit. For those looking for a casual glance at Matera’s modern art scene, however, it hits the perfect balance of insight and accessibility.

Final Thoughts

The TAM Tower Art Museum tour offers a glimpse into Matera’s modern artistic endeavors, set against its iconic historic landscape. With a very reasonable price, it provides more than just visual stimulation—it’s a personal story of creativity and resilience, told by a founder who’s deeply invested in the vision.

The combination of contemporary works, historic architecture, and authentic storytelling makes this a worthwhile addition for travelers eager to experience Matera beyond its caves and churches. While the terrain may pose some challenges, the experience’s intimacy and the chance to hear the museum’s story make it a highlight for art lovers and culturally curious visitors alike.

If you’re seeking a succinct but meaningful cultural activity that adds depth to your Matera visit, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a refreshing reminder that even in a city so steeped in history, the future of art and culture is alive and well.

FAQ

Is the TAM Museum tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared towards adult visitors, especially given the brief duration and focus on contemporary art. Children might enjoy the space but should be prepared for the museum’s terrain and the short walk between locations.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour with a founder lasts approximately one hour, making it easy to fit into a broader sightseeing day.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is in the entrance area of the museum at Via Ridola 13. The guide will walk with you to the second exhibition space.

Can I visit the museum on my own after the tour?
Yes, after the guided tour, you can explore the exhibition spaces independently during the museum’s opening hours.

Is the museum accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Due to the morphological characteristics of the Sassi, the museum is not easily accessible for persons with reduced mobility or wheelchair users.

What kind of artworks can I expect?
You will see works by national and international artists, curated to reflect contemporary artistic practices.

Is this experience worth its price?
At $9, it offers excellent value, providing not just artwork but a personal narrative from a founder, making it more meaningful than a simple visit.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during busy periods, to ensure you secure a spot for the guided tour.

Embark on this journey to discover a different facet of Matera’s vibrant cultural scene—where history and modernity meet through art, stories, and a little bit of creative magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: