Those who visit Matera for the first time are immediately struck by its breathtaking landscape.
The Sassi, the cave dwellings, the light-colored stone alleyways, the rock-hewn churches, and the light that changes color throughout the day make this city a captivating destination to visit.
It is no coincidence that the Sassi of Matera were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, and that the city was named European Capital of Culture 2019. Today, Matera is considered one of Europe's most enchanting destinations and an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Southern Italy.
Visiting Matera means traversing an ancient city where history, art, spirituality, nature, and gastronomic tradition coexist in perfect balance.
In this guide, you will find the main places to visit in Matera, with attractions in the historic center, in the Sassi, and in the surroundings of the city, as well as some tips on what to do and what to taste during your visit.
The Sassi of Matera: the iconic heart of the city
The first place to see in Matera is, of course, the famous Sassi, the two ancient cave districts that have made the city famous worldwide.
Divided into Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, they represent one of the most extraordinary urban landscapes ever created by man. Walking through the narrow streets of the Sassi means entering a labyrinth of alleys, stairways, terraces, cave-houses, courtyards, arches, and balconies that seem to merge with the rock itself.
Among the most evocative streets to explore are:
- via Bruno Buozzi
- via Madonna delle Virtù
- via D’Addozio
- via Fiorentini
Every corner offers spectacular views and ever-changing panoramas. The Sassi change their appearance throughout the day: bright and golden in the morning, romantic at sunset, almost surreal in the evening when the stone is artificially lit and the city seems to transform into a living Nativity scene.
Anyone visiting Matera should dedicate at least several hours, if not an entire day, to truly experience the Sassi without rush. To better understand the historical value of these places, you can also delve into the history of Matera and the Sassi.
Practical tip: The Sassi are best visited on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and keep in mind that the route involves ascents, descents, and stairways.
The Church of Santa Maria de Idris
Among the most iconic places to visit in the Sassi is undoubtedly the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, one of the most photographed and evocative religious buildings in the city.
The church is located in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, at the top of Monterrone, a rocky outcrop that emerges among the cave dwellings and dominates the surrounding landscape from above.
Its unique feature is that it seems literally carved into the rock. Part of the building is in fact excavated directly into the stone, while other sections were added later in masonry. The interior houses precious medieval frescoes and an atmosphere of great spirituality, while its panoramic position makes it one of the most scenic spots in all of Matera. Through an internal passage carved into the stone, the church is connected to the nearby Church of San Giovanni in Monterrone, which is also entirely rupestrian.
Practical tip: visit Santa Maria de Idris during a walk in Sasso Caveoso. It is one of the best spots to combine a cultural visit, panoramic views, and photography.
Open the location of the Church of Santa Maria de Idris on Google Maps
The historic center of Matera
In addition to the Sassi, the upper historic center of Matera, developed on the plateau overlooking the cave districts, is also definitely worth a visit.
Here the city shows a different but perfectly complementary side: elegant squares, historic buildings, monumental churches, shopping streets, and panoramic views overlooking the Sassi.
The heart of city life is Piazza Vittorio Veneto, one of the main squares in the city, built above an intricate system of visitable underground hypogean environments.
From here, an ideal itinerary unfolds, passing through:
- Via del Corso
- Piazza San Francesco
- Piazza del Sedile
- Via Ridola
Strolling through the historic center allows one to understand the urban evolution of Matera beyond the Sassi and to discover the eighteenth and nineteenth-century face of the city.
Practical tip: Piazza Vittorio Veneto is one of the best starting points for a visit, as it easily connects the historic center, the hypogea, and the access points to the Sassi.
Matera Cathedral
Among the most important places to visit in Matera is the Matera Cathedral, officially dedicated to Madonna della Bruna and Sant'Eustachio.
The cathedral is located at the highest point of the ancient city, on the Civita, the hill that separates Sasso Barisano from Sasso Caveoso.
Built in the 13th century in Apulian Romanesque style, it represents one of the most important religious monuments in Basilicata. The façade, simple but monumental, is dominated by a large central rose window and built entirely of local stone. Inside, important works of sacred art are preserved, including the fresco of the Madonna della Bruna, patron saint of the city.
The square in front also offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of all Matera and is one of the best photographic spots in the city. The connection with the patron saint makes this place particularly important also for those who want to learn more about the Festa della Bruna, one of the most cherished traditions by the people of Matera.
Practical tip: reach the Cathedral during a walk between the historic center and the Sassi. From the square, you can admire one of the most beautiful views of Sasso Barisano.
Open the location of Matera Cathedral on Google Maps.
The Crypt of Original Sin
A few kilometers from the city center lies one of the most surprising places in the surroundings of Matera: the Crypt of the Original Sin.
Often called the “Sistine Chapel of rupestrian art,” this extraordinary 9th-century cave church is entirely carved into the rock and decorated with one of Italy's most fascinating medieval pictorial cycles. Its walls preserve biblical scenes of great artistic value, including:
- the Creation of Adam and Eve
- the Original Sin
- patriarchs and prophets of the Old Testament
The quality of the frescoes and the mystical atmosphere of the environment make this visit one of the most memorable cultural experiences in the surroundings of Matera.
Practical tip: The Crypt of the Original Sin is located outside the historical center, so it is advisable to arrange transportation in advance and check visiting hours and booking procedures before you go.
Open the location of the Crypt of the Original Sin on Google Maps.
The Murgia Materana Park
To truly appreciate the beauty of Matera, you must also view it from the outside, and the best place to do so is the Murgia Materana Park. This protected natural area extends across the opposite side of the Gravina and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Sassi.
The park contains:
- scenic trails
- rock churches
- prehistoric caves
- necropolis
- millennia-old archaeological evidence
The most famous access point is Murgia Timone, from which several hiking trails depart.
Even a short walk allows you to reach breathtaking viewpoints from which to admire Matera in its entirety.
Practical tip: Murgia Park is ideal in the early morning or at sunset, when the light enhances the panorama of the Sassi. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and plan your route according to the season.
Open Murgia Timone location on Google Maps
What to do in Matera besides cultural visits
Matera is not just a city to visit: it's a city to experience.
One of the best ways to discover its authentic spirit is to wander aimlessly through the alleys of the Sassi, stopping to admire sudden views, panoramic terraces, and architectural details that often go unnoticed on more rigid itineraries.
Among the most beautiful experiences to have in Matera are:
- watching the sunset from the Gravina viewpoint
- visiting a cave-dwelling furnished as it once was
- taking an underground guided tour of the hypogea
- exploring the artisan workshops in the center
- sampling typical Lucanian traditional products
Gastronomy is indeed a fundamental part of the Matera experience: bread, focaccia, taralli, "peperoni cruschi" (crispy dried peppers), and baked goods tell the story of the connection between the city, the territory, and peasant culture. If you want to delve deeper into this aspect, you can also read the page dedicated to Matera's culinary traditions.
Practical tip: if you have little time, alternate cultural visits with gastronomic breaks: it's the best way to experience Matera without making the day too strenuous.
The Angel Flight in the Lucanian Dolomites
If your stay in Matera lasts more than a day and you also want to explore the surrounding area, one of the most exciting excursions to do in Basilicata is the "Volo dell'Angelo" (Flight of the Angel). Located between the villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, in the heart of the Lucanian Dolomites, the Volo dell’Angelo is one of the most adrenaline-pumping activities in Southern Italy. It allows you to fly suspended in the void over one of the region's most spectacular mountain landscapes, offering a unique experience combining nature and adrenaline.
Practical tip: This experience requires travel outside Matera, so it's advisable to organize it only if you have at least two days available or if you are planning a longer itinerary in Basilicata.
Open the location of Volo dell’Angelo on Google Maps.
Where to taste Matera's traditional flavors
After walking through alleys, stairways, and panoramic viewpoints, one of the most authentic experiences to have is stopping at a traditional bakery to savor the iconic products of local gastronomy. The famous Pane di Matera is one of the most representative products of the city's gastronomic culture: among its most recognizable shapes is the tall Pane di Matera,
appreciated for its substantial crust, fragrant crumb, and connection to traditional baking.
Alongside the bread, you should also try:
- Matera focaccia
- traditional taralli and cookies
- baked goods from the Lucanian peasant tradition
Practical tip: if you want to take home an authentic gastronomic souvenir, choose products that truly represent the area: bread, taralli, peperoni cruschi, and artisanal baked goods are among the most representative flavors of Matera's tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do you need to visit Matera?
To fully experience Matera, it is advisable to dedicate at least one or two days. In one day, you can see the main points of interest such as the Sassi, the Cathedral, and the historic center, while with two days, you can also explore the Murgia Materana Park and the surrounding areas.
Can you visit Matera in one day?
Yes, it is possible to visit Matera in one day, especially by focusing on the most iconic places such as the Sassi, the Cathedral, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, and the main panoramic viewpoints. However, to experience the city more calmly and explore its attractions in depth, it is advisable to stay at least one night.
What are the most beautiful places to see in Matera?
Among the most beautiful places to see in Matera are the Sassi di Matera, the Cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, the historic center, the Crypt of Original Sin, and the Murgia Materana Park. Each of these places tells a different aspect of the city's history and identity.
Is Matera walkable?
Yes, the best way to visit Matera is on foot. The historic center and the Sassi are pedestrian areas characterized by narrow streets, ascents, and stairways that make walking an integral part of the experience. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
When is the best time to visit Matera?
The best times to visit Matera are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and ideal for walking among the Sassi. Summer is also very charming, especially in the evening, while winter offers a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere.
What to eat in Matera during your visit?
During a visit to Matera, it is worth tasting the famous Pane di Matera, the traditional focaccia, typical baked goods, local cured meats, and specialities of Lucanian cuisine. Matera's gastronomy is an integral part of the travel experience in the city.
Where to park to visit Matera?
To visit Matera, it is advisable to leave your car in the car parks near the historic center or at the entrances to the Sassi, avoiding entering the limited traffic zones. From there you can walk towards Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the historic center, and the main entrances to the Sassi.
Is Matera suitable for visiting with children or strollers?
Matera can also be visited with children, but the Sassi areas have uphill and downhill stretches, steps, and uneven paving. With strollers or young children, it is better to plan a simpler itinerary, alternating scenic routes, frequent stops, and more accessible areas of the old town.
Which places in Matera should you book in advance?
For some experiences, such as guided tours in the Sassi, underground routes, cave-houses, rock churches or nearby places like the Crypt of the Original Sin, it is advisable to check opening hours and availability before visiting, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
