Top Matera Archaeology Tours

Matera is home to the Sassi cave churches and dwellings that make up one of the oldest cities in the world. Join your guide for an in-depth tour of the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts to learn about their unique history and evolution. Discover rupestrian structures, stroll the steep and narrow lanes, and gain a deeper understanding of how this town, once called the “Shame of Italy”, is now a UNESCO-listed treasure.

Discover the magic of the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guided tuk tuk tour, a comfortable, original and suggestive way to explore one of the oldest cities in the world. Accompanied by an expert Guide, you will cross the famous Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, admiring rock churches, ancient houses carved into the rock and breathtaking views of Gravina. The tuk tuk allows you to reach even the most characteristic and panoramic points, making the experience pleasant and accessible to everyone. Along the way, the Guide will tell you about the history, curiosities and traditions of Matera, from its prehistoric origins to the cultural revival that made it the European Capital of Culture. Photographic stops are planned at the most iconic points to capture unique views. An ideal experience for those who want to get to know Matera in a relaxed, authentic and fun way, without sacrificing the charm and depth of the historical story.

On this in-depth guided tour of Parco della Murgia, explore the UNESCO-listed Rupestrian churches that Matera is famous for. With a guide, walk along scenic footpaths to visit two must-see churches: the fresco-filled San Falcion and 17th-century Madonna delle Tre Porte. Admission fees to the park and a discount coupon for lunch are also included.

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.

We will discover together what was once defined as the "national shame". Today, Matera, with its Sassi and the Park of rock churches, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Millennia of history and almost uninterrupted human presence have made Matera today a city that has so much to show; we will try to tell it and get to know it.

Unveil the secrets of the ancient “cave city” of Matera with this in-depth walking tour through the UNESCO-listed Sassi. Delve into the history of this unique city dug into the cliffside and visit a cave house and rupestrian churches in its two oldest districts. Learn about how residents once lived, marvel at the cathedral set at the town’s upper square, and take in sweeping views over the Murgia Materana Park.

This is part of one of the world’s largest digital travel guide platforms, used by millions. Travelers can create custom itineraries or let AI build them instantly, based on location, time, and interests. Explore Matera’s lesser-known soul: winding Sassi cave dwellings, hidden Rupestrian churches, secret stone courtyards, symbols carved in ancient rock, and food traditions passed down for generations. Ideal for curious minds and independent travelers.

Discover the timeless charm of Matera and Alberobello on a private full-day tour from Polignano a Mare. Explore Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and rock churches, then wander through Alberobello’s iconic trulli houses. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes—book your private experience today!

Start your journey from Matera in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan for an unforgettable visit to the Crypt of the Original Sin, just 10 km away. With your entry ticket included and an audio guide to lead the way, immerse yourself in the history of this remarkable cave, decorated with 8th-century frescoes. Discover unique biblical scenes, including the iconic depiction of Adam and Eve, which gives the crypt its name. Be amazed by the beauty and mystery of this ancient rock art site. After the tour, relax at a charming local farmhouse, "La Masseria Dragone", where you'll enjoy a tasting of traditional Lucanian products paired with a glass of wine from the surrounding area. End the day with a return trip to Matera, bringing with you unforgettable memories of history and the authentic flavors of Basilicata.

Discover the old mountainside city of Matera on a 2-hour private walking tour. Visit the city’s key landmarks like Palazzo Lanfranchi, the church of San Pietro Caveoso, the Sasso Caveoso, and visit a typical cave house from the region. Learn about the history of this centuries-old city from your informative guide and even walk the streets where Mel Gibson filmed scenes from ‘The Passion of the Christ.’

Experience the magic of Matera with this exclusive package! Enjoy a one-night stay for two in a charming B&B nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Sassi district. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch or dinner featuring traditional local dishes, giving you a true taste of Lucanian cuisine. Then, embark on a 2-hour group walking tour through the iconic Sassi neighborhoods, Caveoso and Barisano. Explore a historic rock-hewn church and step inside a typical cave house to discover what life was like in this fascinating ancient city. This is the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and unique atmosphere of Matera.

Private panoramic tour of the historic districts of the city, aboard the historic Ape Calessino Piaggio. You will not share the tour with other guests.

Discover the unique and inspiring stones of Matera on this tour. The UNESCO World Heritage city is tucked into a mountainside ravine and the rocky landscape of the oldest city in Europe. Led by a local guide, you'll explore the Sassi caves/rock formations, that make for magical photos of the city when lit at night. Your guide will show you the Sasso Barisano, a 13th century church and hidden parts of the Old Town.

Dive into an enchanting 2-hour journey to experience the awe-inspiring Matera Sassi. Immerse yourself in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, guided by a local expert. Marvel at the baroque beauty of San Pietro Caveoso, nestled within this UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the captivating history, remarkable architecture, and fascinating stories that make Matera a true gem, in just a few hours. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Join us for a three-hour walking tour to explore the enchanting city of Matera. Visit Casa Cava, a unique space where history and modernity blend, and marvel at the beautiful frescoes of Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista. Take in the stunning views of Piazza Vittorio Veneto and delve into the fascinating history of Chiesa del Purgatorio. Discover the fascinating Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera, and explore the charming Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve. Finally, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.

Discovering Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becomes a unique experience with this tour we will explore where Matera was born. We will start with the breathtaking view of the belvedere of Matera and its prehistoric caverns dating back to the Lower Neolithic. Continue to the frescoed Sanctuary of Palomba, unique with the beautiful Byzantine fresco of Madonna Odigitria, the Madonna del Cammino famous for her pilgrimages in request of help from the farmers of Basilicata and nearby Puglia. And finally 1 hour visit of the beautiful Crypt of Original Sin. It stands right where the caves of prehistoric times are, the beautiful Sistine Chapel of Southern Italy dating back to the Lombard period, the oldest. It is embellished with a cycle of frescoes dated between the eighth and ninth centuries, drawn up by the artist known as the Painter of Flowers of Matera and expressing the historical characteristics of Benedictine-Beneventan art.