[2025 Matera Attraction] Travel Guide for Sassi di Matera (Updated Apr)

located in Matera city, southern Italy, Basilicata Region, this unique Unesco World Heritage Site is an extensive cave-dwelling districts, called the sassi. The caves of Matera had been inhabited for centuries, even now people there are still living there, after been renovated to become a comfortable houses. In 1993 the town was made a UNESCO World Heritage site, for being "the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem". Have you see the Mel Gibson's film The Passion of the Christ? Well Matera was the one of the filming locations! #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #lucaworldtraveler

#High Altitude Viewing #Overseas Travel Stepping into the ancient city of Matera in southeastern Italy, I felt the fascinating attraction hidden here! It has no gorgeous buildings, no bustling markets, no bright colors, and no exquisite appearance. But it has history, uniqueness, antiquity, simplicity and primitiveness. To see the most simple, beautiful and original Matera, there is an observation deck located in the new city that is not to be missed. The New Town is located on a high ground. The Belvedere sui Sassi next to Palazzo Lanfranchi is a must-visit place for every tourist. From here, you can overlook a visually stunning panoramic view of the ancient city. 📍 Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli Piazzetta Pascoli, 75100 Matera MT #星WRITERCHONGCHONG #ItalyTravel

Nestled in a small canyon carved by the Gravina River, this town was inhabited for thousands of years since the Palaeolithic times. In the prehistoric times, the local population started to settle in dwellings in the calcareous rock of the canyon itself that today are known as 'sassi'. Due to the extreme poverty conditions in the '50s, the government had to relocate most of its population to new housing in the modern part of the city. Thanks to a change in culture and in local administrators, the 'Sassi's' saw a renaissance in the early 90's and are now being promoted as touristic attractions. Over the last two decades, many economic activities have populated these dwellings: restaurants, pubs, shops, bed and breakfasts and luxury hotels. Today Matera is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today it is a must-stop for many tourists who travel across Southern Italy, especially after a stay in Apulia or Calabria.

So ancient and unique! In the cave-city in southern Italy, Matera, it feels like you are stepping back in time!

During my visit to Sassi di Matera, an ancient cave dwelling in Matera, I stumbled upon a small church inside a cave. It was a perfect spot to take a short break. Looking at the church built within the cave, I couldn't help but wonder if the people who lived in such harsh conditions relied on their faith to endure. It's fascinating to see how the people of that time practiced their faith, and I highly recommend visiting this place to get a glimpse of their spiritual life.

Nestled in southern Italy’s Basilicata region, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 9,000 years. Walking through its ancient Sassi di Matera (cave dwellings), you’ll feel transported to another era, where homes, churches, and streets were carved directly into the limestone cliffs. Matera’s unique charm lies in its stone-carved architecture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The Sassi districts, once considered impoverished settlements, have now been transformed into stunning boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums, blending history with modern comfort. Exploring the labyrinth of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and ancient stairways, you’ll uncover a city where time seems to stand still. A highlight of Matera is its rock-hewn churches, such as Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Caveoso, featuring frescoes that date back centuries. The city’s Cathedral of Matera, perched on the highest point of the Sassi, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient landscape. At night, Matera glows with golden lights, creating a magical atmosphere that has made it a favorite filming location, including for movies like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die. Beyond its historical allure, Matera is also a hub for local cuisine, where you can savor traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta, pane di Matera (stone-baked bread), and local cheeses. With its ancient soul and cinematic beauty, Matera is a city where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, offering travelers an unforgettable glimpse into Italy’s past. #ancienttownvibes

#getgoing2025 Matera, Italy Matera is an enchanting town located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. It’s famous for its Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs. These caves have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years and now house homes, churches, and hotels. Matera has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. The town has a growing reputation as an arts hub, with modern art galleries and festivals. Matera’s distinct landscape has also made it a popular filming location, including for movies like The Passion of the Christ.

📍Matera The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was selected as the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Sassi is the plural of Sasso, and Matera is largely divided into two Sasso.➡️Sasso Barisano, which has been converted into mainly commercial facilities, restaurants, and accommodations, and Sasso Caveoso, which has many cave houses and ancient ruins that have been preserved in their original form. 🎆Major tourist attractions: Sassi di Matera: A cave house area dug into limestone, inhabited since prehistoric times. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio: A Romanesque cathedral built in the 13th century, with beautiful frescoes inside. Cave Churches (Chiese Rupestri): Churches carved into limestone cliffs located throughout the Sassi region, such as San Pietro Caveoso and Santa Maria de #Overseas Travel

Matera is a charming city located in Basilicata in southern Italy, and is especially famous for its unique cave dwellings, the Sassi. The city has a history dating back to ancient times and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape of Matera is a beautiful sight, with old houses and churches built along the white limestone cliffs, as if time had stopped. ◆ Attractions The greatest attraction of Matera is its unique landscape and historical architecture. In particular, the cave dwellings called "Sassi di Matera" were built in the 8th and 9th centuries, and many people once lived here. These caves were excavated into limestone, forming a unique living space in harmony with the natural environment. Today, many of the Sassi have been renovated into accommodation, restaurants and galleries, providing visitors with a unique experience. In the past, the people who lived in the Sassi were mainly farmers and shepherds, living with their families in the caves. Their livelihoods included digging caves and growing crops, and they relied on the local agriculture. Many of these families migrated to cities to escape the poverty and overcrowding that continued until the mid-20th century. ◆History Matera's history is very old, dating back to the pre-Christian era. Early inhabitants used the caves in the area as dwellings, and the area developed through the Roman and Byzantine periods. Especially in the Middle Ages, churches and monasteries were built, and the area flourished as a religious center. Matera was also persecuted by Islamic forces in the Middle Ages, and the residents continued to resist while holding on to their Christian faith. Through this trial, the residents reaffirmed their identity, and the construction of churches and monasteries progressed. In recent years, it has been reevaluated and its appeal as a tourist destination has been reconsidered. Today, Matera is growing as a tourist and cultural center, attracting visitors from all over the world. Matera is a wonderful place that leaves a deep impression on visitors, combining historical charm with beautiful scenery. This city, where you can feel the weight of history and enjoy its unique culture and beautiful scenery, is well worth a visit. #0yentravelautumn

#italytrip My visit to Matera was a truly unforgettable experience! 🏛️✨ Located in southern Italy, Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, or "Sassi," which offer a unique glimpse into the past. The entrance to the Sassi area is free, but I paid around €10 for a guided tour that was well worth it for the rich historical context. Wandering through the winding streets of the Sassi di Matera felt like stepping back in time. The ancient stone houses, carved directly into the rock, are incredibly well-preserved and give the city a unique charm. 🏡🔦 I also explored the nearby Matera Cathedral, which boasts stunning views over the city and the surrounding valley. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like “pane di Matera” and “caciocavallo” at one of the town’s charming restaurants. 🍞🧀 Matera’s blend of history, culture, and cuisine makes it a must-visit destination in Italy. #trip #Matera #SassiDiMatera #HistoricItaly #CaveDwellings #ItalianCharm

Matera, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as "Sassi," the city exudes a unique blend of history and culture that makes it an unforgettable destination. Begin your exploration at the Sassi di Matera, a labyrinth of cave dwellings, narrow alleys, and centuries-old churches carved directly into the limestone rock. The Sassi are divided into two main districts: Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, each with its own architectural wonders and breathtaking views. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the caves' history and their former inhabitants. Don't miss the chance to visit the rock-hewn churches of Matera. Santa Maria de Idris, perched high on a rocky outcrop, offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, while the nearby Crypt of Original Sin features remarkable frescoes that have earned it the nickname "Sistine Chapel of the Rupestrian Art." Matera's Piazza Vittorio Veneto is the heart of the modern city, where you can enjoy local cuisine in family-run trattorias. Regional specialties include orecchiette pasta, lamb, and artisanal cheeses. Be sure to try Matera bread, a staple with a distinctive flavor that's tied to the region's ancient grain-growing traditions. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the renovated cave hotels, which blend historical authenticity with modern luxury. These boutique accommodations allow you to fully immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere while enjoying contemporary comforts. The best times to visit Matera are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Matera is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, so it's worth spending time exploring its rich historical heritage. Matera’s blend of ancient architecture, stunning landscapes, and distinctive southern Italian culture makes it a captivating destination that reveals its hidden charms at every turn. #MateraMagic #AncientArchitecture #SassiSecrets #HistoricJourney #TravelItaly #UNESCOWonders #SouthernItalianCharm #mytravelhacks#localguides#familytrip

I had to take a bus and a train to get there, but I'm glad I went. The cave dwellings, called Sassi, are a unique sight, with maze-like alleyways. The view after sunset was also very fantastic.

Get ready to be captivated by the splendor of Matera as we share a carousel of stunning images in the coming days. Our favorite photo showcases the charm and timeless beauty of this incredible city. Nestled in the heart of Italy, Matera is known for its unique stone dwellings, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Explore the labyrinthine streets, marvel at the ancient rock-cut churches, and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere that pervades every corner of Matera. Stay tuned for a visual journey that will transport you to this splendid city of wonders.

Matera is located in southern Italy. It is the oldest cave city in the world and has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age. Residents built their buildings according to the topography. But in the past, Sassi (Sassi means "stone" in Italian) was actually a place where poor people had to live and could be called "slums." In 1993, Matera's Sassi complex was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site under the name "Sassi Stone Houses of Matera" because of its unique architectural style and long history. Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera is located on the high west side, making it a great starting point for an adventure into the stone houses of Matera. Next to the square there is an observation deck overlooking the entire group of stone houses. The view is broad and you can see the entire group of stone houses very clearly. It is very spectacular and special. Walking in the town of Matera is like walking in the alleys in a maze. If you look around, you will find a new road. Matera has a unique tranquil atmosphere. Walking among the stone houses is like traveling through a time tunnel and returning to Italy hundreds of years ago. These attractions are worth visiting! #familytravel