Top Matera Arts & Design

The UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera is both captivating and mysterious. With this guided tour, take a deep dive into the history of this unique rupestrian city, named a 2019 European Capital of Culture. Explore its hidden dwellings and churches carved directly into the cliff, the setting for a number of films, including Ben Hur.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock city of Matera stretches over a steep cliff, so exploring it on foot can be tiring. Explore as much as possible without getting tired with this tour aboard an authentic Italian Ape Calessino (Tuk Tuk). Zip through the streets of the historic Sasso Caveoso neighborhood to admire the main churches and squares and snap photos of the famous cave houses and views of the surrounding valley.

Delve into the history and mystery of UNESCO-listed Matera, home to the Sassi cave city that traces its history back to prehistoric times. Explore one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world with a guide, stopping to visit rupestrian churches and homes and learn about the evolution of this singular cliffside town. Stroll through the Sasso Barisano and pause to snap photos of the town and surrounding valley.

Discover a side of Matera that many visitors never see without the challenge of interpreting its underground history on your own. This guided experience explores the Matera Hypogeum, a vast network of subterranean spaces carved beneath the city. As you pass ancient dwellings, cisterns, and places of worship, gain insight into how generations of residents lived, worked, and managed resources below the streets of this UNESCO-listed destination.

Matera reveals itself in Palazzo Acito, a 17th century building open to curious and enterprising travellers. In its rooms you will live a unique experience: the city of the Sassi is all there, in 'La Secretissima camera de lo core', a whale's belly to cross, a labyrinth that will tell you about an unprecedented Matera. Accompanied by two exceptional guides, Luciana and Massimo, actors from the Teatro dei Sassi, you will have a sensorial and engaging journey to the places of citizens' hearts: moving 40 works by national and international artists, listening to ancient stories, legends whispered between talking objects and emotional maps up to Il Giuoco dei Sissi: a dice, 7 cuckoos as placeholders and Wonder cards and of Restlessness, keys to access the language, the mysteries, the sayings, the places of the city. But it doesn't end here because the game continues outside, in the historic center of Matera, in search of those secrets revealed by the cards. And if your answers are correct you will receive a welcome surprise.

Travel back in time as you explore the ancient neighborhoods of Sassi di Matera on this private tour. Follow your guide as you visit fascinating places such as the rock churches of San Pietro Barisano and Santa Lucia alle Malve, plus ancient cave dwellings. Listen to insightful commentary from your guide as you marvel at archaic architecture and stop to take photographs.

24 audio guides to discover the most suggestive places of Montescaglioso. Explore the heart of Basilicata with the i-Tourist app and let your smartphone guide you through history, art and breathtaking views. Visit the majestic Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, an authentic Benedictine jewel and symbol of the city, and admire the view that opens towards the Lucanian badlands and nearby Matera. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, discover the rock churches and be surprised by the panoramic squares that tell centuries of culture and tradition. An immersive experience that combines art, nature and spirituality, designed for all ages. A flexible and engaging tour, ideal for experiencing Montescaglioso in complete freedom, following your pace and passions.

Discover the historic charm of Matera on this guided walking tour, which starts from the picturesque Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Admire the panoramic views of Civita and Sasso Barisano as you walk through the ancient alleys of the old town. Visit the amazing Rock Church and a traditional cave house to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the region. This 2-hour tour, with a maximum of 15 participants, offers an intimate glimpse into Matera's fascinating past and beautiful landscapes, making it ideal for culture and history enthusiasts. Duration: about 2 hours Minimum 2 adults; maximum 15 participants Daily departures at 11:30 or 15:30 Visit significant sites, including the ancient cave house and rock church.