Travel Itinerary

Admire 13th-century Apulian-Romanesque façades, frescoed nave and panoramic terrace over the Sasso Barisano.

Visit interconnected cave sanctuaries adorned with medieval frescoes and learn about Byzantine and Benedictine influences.

Examine prehistoric lithic tools, Greek pottery and Roman epigraphy collected by physician Ridola in the 19th c.

Nicknamed the ‘Sistine Chapel of cave churches’, this 8th-century hermit chapel preserves vibrant frescoes of saints.

Circle the unfinished 16th-century castle on the hilltop and enjoy west-facing sunset views over Matera’s rooftops.

Begin a morning trek across the gravina gorge to discover rupestrian churches, shepherd trails and endemic flora.

Conclude the hike with a visit to the largest rock church in Matera, noted for its carved ambries and catacombs.

Recharge with handmade orecchiette, cruschi peppers and local aglianico wine inside a candle-lit cave restaurant.

Wander the quieter southern district, peek into pottery studios and photograph cave-house façades glowing in afternoon light.

Wrap up your cultural deep-dive with local wine and artisanal taralli while watching the city lights flicker across ancient stones.