10+ Things To Do In Matera, Italy

“Matera, the Cappadocia of Italy”

Heard of those rock-walled towns and cities that seem to disappear into the background? Some of them are like ancient, hidden cities that were built millennia ago. They look so rugged and isolated its easy to think of them as some Robbers’ den high in the peaks yet so disguised its like part of the natural environment or something.

Maybe not. Such towns are so few and far between just finding them on the map is an achievement.

But you’ve heard of the 2016 film Ben Hur, right? Or, more popularly, the Passion of the Christ? Maybe James Bond’s No Time to Die (2021)?

These were shot in Matera. At least, for Ben Hur, most of it was shot in Matera where the ‘Jerusalem’ on film was actually the rock-walled town of Matera.

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Today, let’s take a dive into Matera, a city over 12, 000 years old and still running strong even with humans having settled the place for that long. In fact, just this long duration of human occupation says something about how awesome Matera was in the eyes of people so far back. Maybe it was the Sassi, sheer rock cliffs, that attracted people to the town. Or it was the isolation and positioning so high up. I recall this scene in Ben Hur where the Roman legions singing Aeterna are marching up and there I’m thinking, “If they had to scale up the rock faces and take this city them numbers are toast!”

I got to visit Matera a while back, and only just got to creating this blog for it. I want to let you in on what there is to see and do in Matera. Basically, Matera is an interesting place where the things to do in Matera all put you in touch with one of the oldest – if not outright the oldest even with Jericho thrown in – towns in the world.

How to Get to Matera

Getting to Matera is the easiest thing in the world. For one, Matera is the capital of the province of Matera, itself found in the region of Basilicata to the South of Italy. It is found on the right bank of a river called the Gravina and right in the middle of a canyon area whose rocks form the most distinctive feature of the city.

So, how to get to see and have fun with things to do in Matera? There are a number of options in hand, depending on where and when in Italy you are.

1. From Bari (the nearest major city)

• By Train: Bari is well-connected to Matera by the regional train line operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL). Trains depart frequently from Bari Centrale to Matera Centrale and take about 1.5–2 hours. Tickets cost around €5–€7.
• By Bus: Buses run frequently between Bari and Matera because there are loads of things to do in Matera even setting aside the 700 000 tourists to the city annually. Companies like FlixBus (best option IMO) operate direct routes that take about 1.5 hours and cost between €5–€10.
• By Car: Driving from Bari to Matera takes around 1 hour. Car rentals start from about €50 per day, depending on the season and car type.

2. From Rome

• By Train and Bus: From Rome Termini Station, take a high-speed train to Bari (3–4 hours, around €40–€70). Then, transfer to a local train or bus to Matera (1.5–2 hours, €5–€10).
• By Direct Bus: FlixBus offers direct buses from Rome to Matera. The journey takes about 6–7 hours and costs between €20–€40, depending on the booking and season.
• By Car: The drive from Rome to Matera takes around 5 hours. Car rentals typically start around €60–€100 per day, plus fuel and tolls.

3. From Florence

• By Train and Bus: Take a high-speed train from Florence to Bari (5 hours, €40–€80) and then connect to Matera by train or bus.
• By Car: Driving from Florence to Matera takes about 7 hours, with rental costs around €60–€100 per day.

4. From Milan

• By Train and Bus: Travel by high-speed train from Milan to Bari (7 hours, around €60–€100), then transfer to Matera by train or bus.
• By Plane: Direct flights from Milan to Bari take about 1.5 hours (costs vary from €40–€120 depending on the season). From Bari, take a train or bus to Matera.
• By Car: Driving from Milan takes about 8.5–9 hours, with rental costs ranging from €80–€120 per day.

5. From Venice

• By Train and Bus: Take a high-speed train from Venice to Bari (7.5–8 hours, €60–€120) and transfer to Matera by bus or train.
• By Plane: Flights from Venice to Bari take about 1.5 hours (prices vary from €50–€130). From Bari, take a train or bus to Matera.
• By Car: Driving from Venice to Matera takes about 9 hours, with rental costs around €80–€120 per day.

Best Time to Visit Matera

The ideal time to visit Matera is from April to June and September to October. These months offer mild, comfortable weather as well as fewer crowds than during the peak of summer, not to mention better availability for accommodations. Matera has a number of outdoor and indoor activities from cooking classes to hiking the rough terrains in Murgania Materana Park. Throw in the hot air balloon rides, biking tours, tuk-tuk tours, Caves, and horse-riding, planning a trip to Matera at a good time in the year is important.

Month	Avg. Temperature (°C)	Humidity (%)	Avg. Rainfall (mm)	Notes
January	5–11	80	40	Cold and quiet
February	6–12	75	38	Winter with fewer tourists
March	8–15	70	40	Starting to warm up
April	10–18	65	50	Pleasant weather begins
May	13–23	60	45	Ideal weather, low crowds
June	17–28	55	25	Warm but not too hot
July	20–32	50	10	Hot and crowded
August	20–32	55	15	Hottest and most crowded
September	17–28	60	30	Warm, fewer crowds
October	13–22	65	45	Mild, good for sightseeing
November	10–16	75	60	Colder, fewer tourists
December	6–12	80	55	Cold, quiet season

Why Visit at Different Times of Year?

• Spring (April–June): Mild temperatures make this an ideal time for exploring Matera comfortably. This period attracts visitors interested in culture, history, and photography.
• Summer (July–August): The peak season with the hottest weather. Ideal for those interested in festivals or events but is crowded and can be uncomfortable for some. Families and younger tourists are common.
• Fall (September–October): The weather cools, and crowds thin out, making it another perfect season for sightseeing. Popular with couples and solo travelers.
• Winter (November–March): Quiet, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation costs, but also colder weather. Great for those seeking a peaceful experience.

Outdoor and Indoor Things to Do in Matera

The things to do in Matera are all predicated on the simple business model where there are not only loads you can do with fun, but also that the climate is simply too awesome to restrict you. From the table above, you can see the worst of the weather is a chilling 5 °C while the hottest it can get is just 32 °C. Throw in the comfortable humidity all year round and Matera is just the most welcoming environment for those with outdoor activities in mind.

1. Hiking in Murgia Materana Park

• Description: Here, you get to explore the Parco della Murgia Materana, a natural reserve featuring ancient rock churches, caves, and obtain great pics of the panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera.
• Operators:
  • Matera Tour Guide: Offers guided hikes highlighting the park’s history and geology.
  • Murgia Trekking: Specializes in eco-tours focusing on the park’s flora and fauna.
• Pricing: Guided tours range from €25 to €40 per person.
• Seasonality: Available year-round, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable hiking conditions for those looking for outdoor things to do in Matera.

2. Biking Tours

• Description: Cycling through Matera’s historic districts and surrounding countryside, and experiencing the region’s landscapes and landmarks, can be cathartic in some ways. So many stone stairs and steps, rocky promontories staring out over the city, and great viewpoints make a bicycle ride around the city one of the best things to do in Matera.
• Operators:
  • Matera Bike Tour: Provides city and countryside bike tours with equipment included.
  • CicloMurgia: Offers mountain biking adventures in the Murgia plateau.
• Pricing: Tours typically cost between €30 and €50 per person, including bike rental.
• Seasonality: Best enjoyed from April to October.

3. Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Description: Experiencing aerial views of Matera and its unique landscape from a hot air balloon is simply the most awesome option for an outdoorsy guy looking for things to do in Matera. From high up in the air, Matera is simply a maze of amazing streets and alleys and stairways and arches and lone trees and squares and greys and yellows and pinks.
• Operators:
  • Mongolfiere Matera: Offers sunrise flights over the city and surrounding areas.
• Pricing: Approximately €250 per person. Slightly pricey for budget travelers like me who fund adventures via blogging, but definitely worth it.
• Seasonality: Flights are typically available from May to September, weather permitting.

4. Tuk-Tuk Tours

• Description: Take in Matera’s historic center and Sassi districts aboard a traditional Ape Calessino (tuk-tuk).
• Operators:
  • ApeVito Tour & Transfer: Provides guided tours with stops at key landmarks.
• Pricing: Around €50 per adult for a 50-minute tour.
• Seasonality: Available year-round.

5. Caving and Speleology

• Description: Discover the underground world of Matera’s caves and ancient cisterns. I particularly loved the Le Grotte della Civita for one. If it were up to me, I’d market Matera as the “City of Caves.”
• Operators:
  • Gruppo Speleologico Materano: Offers guided caving experiences for various skill levels.
• Pricing: Prices vary; contact the operator for details.
• Seasonality: Year-round, with advance booking recommended.

6. Horseback Riding

• Description: Riding through the scenic landscapes surrounding Matera, including trails in the Murgia park is definitely an experience different from doing it in a place like Tuscany! If you are looking for awesome outdoor things to do in Matera, them riding horses here ranks very high.
• Operators:
  • Matera Equitazione: Provides guided horseback tours for both beginners and experienced riders.
• Pricing: Approximately €40 per hour.
• Seasonality: Best from April to October.

7. Cooking Classes with Market Tours

• Description: Combine a visit to local markets with hands-on cooking classes focusing on traditional Materan cuisine.
• Operators:
  • Cook’n Fun at Mary’s: Offers market tours followed by cooking sessions.
• Pricing: Around €75 per person.
• Seasonality: Available year-round.

Places to Visit in Matera

So here is the comprehensive list of fun things to see and do in Matera. I will try to list all the places I got to visit myself as well as the ones I planned for but missed because of important side-missions that might have taken a bite out of my very disciplined itinerary. Even so, I still recommend them all because it is the right and just thing to do!

I won’t get into the nitty-gritties; Matera is definitely one of the many places in Italy whose appearance is more than enough to market itself. Remember, 12, 000 years + of history here! I mean, even Jericho has ‘only’ been settled ‘just’ 11, 000 years continuously…

1. Sassi di Matera (The Stones of Matera)

• History & Importance: The Sassi comprises two main districts—Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano—inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Carved into limestone, these ancient cave dwellings represent one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Just walking around and taking in the sights of house walls blending into the background so perfectly is more than enough to justify a trip here for your things to do in Matera itinerary.
• Highlights: Wandering the narrow streets, discovering ancient dwellings, and taking trips into caves converted into modern spaces. My major recommendations include side trips to places like the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita Hotel.
• Tickets & Cost: The Sassi area is free to enter, but individual sites within the Sassi, like the Casa Noha and some specific rock churches, will charge between €3–€5.
• Special Discounts: A combined ticket (€8–€10) covers access to several rock churches and selected cave sites. It is purchased on-site at main entrance points or from local tour operators.
• Opening Hours: Open all day for free exploration; guided tours will typically run from 9 am to 6 pm.
• Activities: Main activities include guided walking tours like Sassi Tour by Matera Tour Guide (€25), which include stops at significant sites, ancient homes, and historic frescoes.

2. Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

• History & Importance: Preserving Matera’s rustic lifestyle from the 18th–19th centuries, Casa Grotta recreates the essence of a traditional cave home with period era furnishings, tools, and even animal quarters that demonstrate the living conditions in the Sassi.
• Significant Features: The house includes a carved stone bed, kitchen tools, and everyday items that give a clear sense of past life in Matera. For myself, diving into the periodicity of the houses made for one of the most educational things to do in Matera.
• Tickets & Cost: Entrance costs €3 for adults and €2.50 for children and seniors. Tickets are available on-site.
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
• Activities: Audio-guided tours are available in multiple languages. Tours focus on historical anecdotes and daily life.

3. Chiese Rupestri (Rock Churches)

• History & Importance: Matera’s rock churches, such as Santa Maria de Idris, San Pietro Barisano, and Santa Lucia alle Malve, date from the 8th–13th centuries and reveal Matera’s blend of Byzantine and Latin Christian influences. These churches feature remarkable frescoes and stone altars carved directly into the rock. Setting aside making the stop as part of your itinerary of things to do in Matera, just seeing the influences on the Church is something to put time and history and culture into perspective.
• Highlights:
  • Santa Maria de Idris: Loved for its cliffside location and stunning views of the Gravina.
  • San Pietro Barisano: The largest rock church with impressive frescoes and catacombs.
  • Santa Lucia alle Malve: Once used by Benedictine monks, with beautiful frescoes of religious scenes.
• Tickets & Cost: Individual tickets are around €3–€5 per church, or a combined ticket is available for €8–€10 at the main entrances or online at MateraTicket.com.
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Activities: Exploring frescoes, altars, the religious scenes, and crypts; guided tours cover the religious history and art.

4. Museo Archeologico Nazionale Domenico Ridola

• History & Importance: Named after Senator Domenico Ridola, who founded it in 1911, this museum showcases artifacts from prehistoric to Roman periods, illuminating the ancient civilization that once flourished in Matera. Like the churches mentioned above, just seeing the influences on the Church is something to put time and history and culture into perspective.
• Exhibits: Key exhibits include Bronze Age ceramics, Neolithic pottery, and Paleolithic tools.
• Tickets & Cost: Admission is €5, with reduced rates of €3 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased on-site.
• Opening Hours: Open from 9 am to 7 pm; closed on Mondays.
• Activities: Guided tours of the archaeological collections. Audio guides are also available for an additional €1.

5. Piazza Vittorio Veneto & Palombaro Lungo (Underground Cistern)

• History & Importance: Piazza Vittorio Veneto is Matera’s central square, housing the Palombaro Lungo—a massive underground cistern used from the 16th century for water storage. Rediscovered in the 1990s, this cistern highlights Matera’s advanced ancient water management. PS: If you got the opportunity to visit other cisterns around Italy, just comparing their volumes and structures can be one of the more interesting things to do in Matera. I find it is such activities that help me build a mental picture of Italy then and now.
• Key Features: Walking down into the Palombaro Lungo to see the stone walls and the tunnels stretching out beneath the city.
• Tickets & Cost: Entry to the cistern is €3.50, available on-site.
• Opening Hours: Guided tours operate from 10 am to 6 pm.
• Activities: Join a guided tour, which explains the ancient water storage techniques and the structure’s historical significance.

6. Murgia National Park (Parco della Murgia Materana)

• History & Importance: This is a protected natural park that is filled with rock churches, prehistoric caves, and lush landscapes. Located across from Matera’s Sassi, it offers panoramic views and opportunities for adventure. For nature lovers like myself, just seeing this natural park juxtaposed alongside a place like Matera, one so heavily touched by man’s hand, definitely ranked very high among the things to do in Matera.
• Key Features: Discover sites like Grotta dei Pipistrelli (Bat Cave), San Falcione’s Church, and several prehistoric rock paintings.
• Tickets & Cost: Free entry, though guided tours start at €10–€15.
• Opening Hours: Open year-round. Guided tours generally run from 9 am to 6 pm.
• Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, guided tours of rock churches, wildlife spotting, and photography workshops. The Murgia Experience Tour offers guided excursions in the park for €15 btw.

7. Matera Cathedral (Duomo di Matera)

• History & Importance: Built in 1270, the Matera Cathedral is an impressive example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. It stands atop Civita Hill, overlooking the Sassi. Personally, it was this church that made me dig a little more into Matera’s history. The Romanesque architecture seems a little bit odd given how more modern churches in major metropolitans in Italy seemed to have experienced evolutions. Digging into such histories will be a major activity for older folks looking for interesting things to do in Matera.
• Key Features: Inside, the visitors will find frescoes dating to the 13th century, Gothic arches, and the beautiful Madonna della Bruna statue.
• Tickets & Cost: Entry is generally free (YAY!), but donations are encouraged.
• Opening Hours: 9 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm.
• Activities: Visitors can explore the artwork, attend Mass, and admire the architecture.

8. MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera)

• History & Importance: Italy’s only museum dedicated entirely to sculpture, MUSMA is set within a historic cave palace. It houses modern sculptures that contrast intriguingly with the ancient rock walls. Personally, it was another side to the manmade-natural debate in my heart. Just diving into these fusions and trying to trace them makes for some of the more interesting mental things to do in Matera I did.
• Key Features: Sculptures by prominent Italian and international artists, and temporary exhibits. I will let you investigate the more popular ones yourself alongside finding out just why they were in Matera in the first place.
• Tickets & Cost: Admission is €7 for adults and €5 for students and seniors. Tickets are available on-site and at musma.it.
• Opening Hours: Open from 10 am to 6 pm.
• Activities: Visitors get to view exhibitions, participate in art workshops, and attend lectures on contemporary sculpture.

9. Castello Tramontano

• History & Importance: Built in the early 16th century by Count Tramontano, this unfinished castle symbolizes Matera’s resistance to oppression, as the citizens revolted against the tyrannical count. Researching into the wars and their influence on a place’s development make for scholarly things to do in Matera.
• Key Features: The castle offers scenic views of the city and is a favorite for photographers.
• Tickets & Cost: Free entry; the exterior is open to the public.
• Activities: Photography, picnicking, and viewing Matera from an elevated perspective.

10. Cooking Classes and Local Cuisine Tours

• Best Classes:
  • Le Botteghe di Leonardo: You get to learn how to make traditional Basilicata dishes, including orecchiette pasta and Matera bread. Classes cost around €60 and include all ingredients and tastings.
  • Cook’n Fun at Mary’s: This cooking class offers a home-cooked experience. Participants learn to make strascinati pasta and sample Aglianico wine. Classes will cost about €75, a rate that includes all ingredients, recipes, and a wine pairing.
  • Matera Street Food Tour by Eating Italy: This food tour (€55) introduces visitors to the local flavors of Matera, with stops to sample peperoni cruschi (crispy peppers), Matera bread, and caciocavallo cheese.
• Activities: Cooking classes include hands-on instruction and a meal, while the street food tour lets participants sample traditional foods from Matera’s markets.
• Booking & Discounts: Some cooking schools offer online booking discounts. Group discounts are often available, especially if booking multiple classes.

11. CRACO:

Craco is a picturesque and historic ghost town and comune in the province of Matera, in the southern Italian region of Basilicata. Perched dramatically on a steep hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. If you like to wander around, it would be good to check this place out walking in the empty town.

The town’s origins date back to the 8th century, and its medieval streets, stone houses, and towers speak of a rich history.

Craco was abandoned in the 20th century due to landslides and instability, leaving it eerily preserved. Today, it serves as a captivating destination for visitors, known for its cinematic atmosphere—featured in films like The Passion of the Christ—and its haunting beauty, making it a unique blend of history and mystery.

A Short-ish History of Matera

(A.) Ancient Beginnings: 10,000 BCE – Roman Era:

1. Prehistoric Settlement:

Matera’s history began over 12,000 years ago in the Paleolithic period. Early humans were drawn to Matera’s natural limestone caves, which provided shelter, protection, and access to water from the Gravina River nearby. The caves would then evolve into a unique, urban landscape known as the Sassi, where people built dwellings, temples, and communal spaces.

2. Roman Era (3rd century BCE – 5th century CE):

Matera was incorporated into the Roman Empire around the 3rd century BCE, though it remained on the periphery of Rome’s focus in the southern region. Under Roman rule, the settlement saw modest development, with roads and minor infrastructure improvements that connected Matera to neighboring towns. Romans valued the site for its strategic position and natural fortifications. However, Romans did not develop Matera extensively like other Roman cities; instead, it retained its rural and rustic character. Trying to trace Roman influences on Matera can be one of the more engaging things to do in Matera.

(B.) Early Medieval Period: Lombard, Arab, and Byzantine Influence

1. Lombard Control (6th – 8th century):

After the fall of Rome, the Lombards, a Germanic people, gained control over much of Italy, among them the region around Matera. The Lombards influenced Matera’s early medieval culture and encouraged Christianity, leaving behind some early Christian influences. However, the city was on the boundary between Lombard and Byzantine territories, making it an area of shifting allegiances, control, and cultural blending. Can you tell Lombard religious influences from Byzantine? Try it as one of the mental exercises and educational things to do in Matera. Like seriously, I am not just placing that phrase for the keyword hits. I did it myself too!

2. Arab Incursions (8th – 9th century):

Matera experienced incursions and influences from Arab forces, who periodically raided and influenced southern Italy. While the Arabs didn’t permanently settle in Matera, they contributed to cultural exchanges, introducing new agricultural techniques and elements of architecture seen in southern Italian cities. This was all the more serious due to the period of Muslim Conquests and ascendancy over the Mediterranean between the dominant Isaurian and Macedonian dynasties.

3. Byzantine Rule (9th – 11th century):

The Byzantines solidified their control over Matera after the Arab raids that previously peaked in the previous centuries. During this period, Byzantine Christian monks moved into the region and transformed many of Matera’s caves into rock churches adorned with frescoes. The Byzantines left a lasting religious and architectural influence, as seen in Matera’s rock-cut churches, which are among the city’s most significant historical sites. More importantly, it was this period of cultural ‘conquests’ as opposed to military conquests by both sides that established in Matera a pre-dominantly Christian identity. Can you trace which of the frescoes and art works come from this period in Matera’s history. Hey, found you more educational and interesting things to do in Matera!

(C.) High Middle Ages to Renaissance: Swabian, Angevin, and Aragonese Influence

1. Swabian Period (12th – 13th century):

In the 12th century, the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, a Swabian ruler, swept over much of southern Italy, including Matera. Frederick II was known for his progressive policies and interest in architecture. Under his rule, Matera began to see the development of defensive structures and civic improvements, bolstering its strategic importance. This period also saw some prosperity, as Frederick encouraged trade and cultural exchange. More interestingly IMO, was Frederick II’s frequent clashes with the papacy. Do you thing the profusion of civic vs. religious architecture during this period say something about the political history of Matera? For students of history, I hope this is an engaging topic from historical things to do in Matera.

2. Angevin Rule (13th – 15th century):

The Angevins, a French royal house, controlled much of southern Italy in the 13th century. The Angevin period marked a decline in the region’s fortunes as Matera’s residents were heavily taxed, leading to economic hardships. However, it was during this time that religious structures flourished, with the construction of several churches and cathedrals. PS: The Normans were also heavily engaged in Matera, but it was right around the years 1000 – 1200 AD. Basically, they were introduced to Southern Italy as mercenaries who later turned into occupiers then rulers. Can you trace Norman influence or remains in Matera? Yay, more interesting things to do in Matera.

3. Aragonese Influence (15th – 18th century):

The Aragonese dynasty took control after the Angevins, bringing more stability to the region. The Aragonese focused on securing southern Italy from invasions and boosting the local economy, but the poverty in Matera persisted. The ruling aristocracy imposed strict feudal systems, which saw the wealth centralized among noble families while the rest of the population lived in poverty. I think this is why I could not trace the Aragonese connection in Matera…cough cough, my recent travels to Portugal made me more than casually familiar with Aragonese art and architecture, so I know what I am talking about. Check out my blogs and videos on Lisbon, Portugal! Also, Aragon, Portugal, Aragon, Portugal…those Iberians all look alike!

(D.) Modern Era: Bourbon Rule and Matera’s Transformation

1. Bourbon Period (18th – 19th century):

The Bourbons ruled Matera as part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, bringing an era of modest economic revival. They invested in some public works, such as infrastructure improvements and irrigation, though these efforts had limited impact on the Sassi. The city remained largely poor, with many people still living in the cave dwellings under challenging conditions. Still, this was an interesting period in Italy’s history, and diving into the developments ranks quite high among the more cerebral things to do in Matera. This was just before Risorgimento and detecting the point of departure from a French identity to an Italian identity for Matera will be more interesting things to do in Matera.

2. Post-Unification of Italy (1861):

After Italian unification, Matera remained impoverished, and the living conditions in the Sassi became a national concern. By the 20th century, many of Matera’s residents lived in overcrowded caves with little sanitation. This period marked the beginning of Matera’s decline, as it was stigmatized as the “shame of Italy” for its poverty and poor living conditions.

Important Periods in Matera’s Transformation

1. 1950s Forced Evacuations:

• In the 1950s, the Italian government mandated the evacuation of the Sassi due to poor living conditions. Approximately 15,000 people were relocated to new homes outside the caves. The empty Sassi remained abandoned for decades, but this period sparked awareness of Matera’s unique cultural heritage and led to restoration initiatives. Why did Risorgimento not impact Matera like it did much of Italy? After all, Matera is 12 000 years old! Trying to find out the reason can be one of the challenging things to do in Matera for you.

2. 1980s Revitalization Efforts:

• Interest in preserving the Sassi grew, and by the 1980s, the government had initiated restoration projects. The abandoned caves were gradually transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, and cultural spaces, drawing attention from tourists and historians alike.

3. 1993 UNESCO World Heritage Status:

• In 1993, Matera’s Sassi and rock churches were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. This designation revitalized Matera’s tourism and encouraged further investment in preserving the city’s unique architecture.

4. 2019 European Capital of Culture:

• Matera was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, a turning point that brought international attention to the city. This honor led to infrastructural improvements, cultural events, and a significant boost in tourism, making Matera a popular destination.

Places to Stay in and Around Matera, Italy

Just incase you decided to stay overnight or longer in Matera, here are some of the places you can opt for. I selected them for safety and comfort, and while not exhaustive, I am sure there are more available.

Accommodation Name	Type	Proximity to Major Attraction	Approximate Cost per Night (EUR)	Distinguishing Feature
Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel	Hotel	Adjacent to Matera Cathedral	€300 – €500	5-star luxury with panoramic views of the Sassi
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA	Hotel	Located in the Sassi area	€250 – €400	Modern amenities within ancient cave dwellings
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita	Hotel	Overlooking the Gravina Canyon	€200 – €350	Authentic cave rooms with minimalist design
Palazzotto Residence & Winery	Boutique Hotel	In the heart of the Sassi	€150 – €250	Historic residence with an on-site winery
Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae	Hotel	Close to Piazza Vittorio Veneto	€100 – €200	Features a unique underground spa with thermal baths
L’Hotel in Pietra	Hotel	Near San Giovanni Battista Church	€90 – €150	Boutique hotel set within a converted 13th-century church
B&B Donna Eleonora	Bed & Breakfast	Few steps from Piazza Vittorio Veneto	€70 – €120	Cozy rooms with traditional décor and homemade breakfast
Ostello dei Sassi – Matera Hostels	Hostel	Within the Sassi area	€25 – €50 (per bed)	Budget-friendly dormitory with communal kitchen facilities
La Casa di Lucio Hotel Relais	Hotel	In the Sasso Caveoso district	€80 – €130	Offers rooms and suites carved into the rock with modern comforts
Le Dodici Lune	Guesthouse	Adjacent to the Sassi	€60 – €100	Traditional cave rooms with contemporary furnishings
Hydria Rooms	Guesthouse	60 meters from Sasso Barisano	€60 – €80	Restored tuff-stone building with modern amenities
Casa Blanca Matera	Guesthouse	Walking distance from the Sassi	€50 – €70	Offers free Wi-Fi and has good proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites
LA DIMORA DELLE 3 ZIE	Guesthouse	600 meters from Matera Cathedral	€55 – €75	Features inner courtyard views and a shared lounge

If you are planning to move to Italy, the region of Basilicata is among the best regions of Italy to move to for its quality of life.

I’m Lucia by the way and I have been living in Rome, Italy for 6+ years now, here’s my ITALY TOP 10 PLAYLIST. Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to my channel 💞. I film travel videos all around the world, sharing travel guides and tips for each destination on my YouTube channel.

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