An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to do in Matera

Last Updated on 27th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Known as the City of Caves, Matera is Italy’s ancient archaeolgoical gem. An enchanting place that has preserved the evidence of human settlements since the Palaeolithic period in its natural caves carved into limestone rock. Here’s your ultimate insiders guide to the best things to do in Matera, as well as a brief history, travel tips and where to stay when visiting.

What is Matera known for?

There aren’t many places in the world where people can say to be still living in the same house of their ancestors of 9,000 years ago, but in Matera you can!

Matera is the third oldest city in the world (after Aleppo and Jericho) and is known for its ancient habitations and as such has been hailed with the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where is Matera?

Matera is the capital city of the Province of Matera in the region of Basilicata, Southern Italy and is located on the border of Basilicata and Puglia.

Known as Sassi di Matera- ‘sassi’ (is the Italian for stones) – the city was built above a deep ravine called Gravina of Matera and it is divided into two districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.

A brief history…

Upon visiting Matera, it’s hard to believe that it was once dubbed ‘the shame of Italy’, this remote ravine city was a place of chronic poverty where less than 70 years ago people were crammed into the cave houses, dying of hunger and disease.

It wasn’t until brought to attention until writer Carlo Levi wrote in one of his books, published in 1945, of the horrors he witnessed while visiting Matera. Later this prompted a visit from he Italian prime minister Alcide De Gasperi, who said of the city to be “a national disgrace”- it was after this that set off a chain of events that would dramatically change the peoples lives and Matera forever.

With money pumped into the city, the majority of Matera’s residents were displaced into homes in the outer areas of the Sassi, while construction went underway to build new. Of course, this gave the people of Matera a chance to live in better conditions, but a sense of community was stolen at the same time.

Matera became a ghost city and remained uninhibited until completion, it wasn’t until 1986 when a law was passed to move people back in. The idea of the caves to be brought back to life, the city was inundated with Artisans setting up workshops, while bars, restaurants and boutique hotels started popping up.

The city continued its success when it achieved status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also became the European Capital of Culture in 2019.

Changes to Matera have been drastic and today it stands reconnected with the world, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. It is a stark reminder to us all of how much of a difference 100 years can make.

How long do you need in Matera

In order to see all that Matera has to offer, you’ll want to dedicate at least two days of exploring. some of the oldest human settlements of the world and everything else that lies within this unique city.

That being said, you could easily spend a little longer in Matera if you wish to take things at a leisurely pace and experience life in the ethereal City of Caves.

Best things to do in Matera

Church of Saint Mary of Idris

If you’ve ever seen some of the more iconic photos of Matera, then chances are you’ve seen snaps of the church of Saint Mary of Idris, which is also known as the Rock Church or Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris in Italian.

Dating back to the 15th century, this unique Catholic church is carved into the limestone rock of the Monterrone hilltop and overlooks breathtaking views of the Sassi and beyond.

For a small fee you can visit inside the church, and although it’s quite small it’s definitely worth visiting this one of a kind sacred space. Inside the church is made up of two small rooms and you can see the beautiful remains of medieval frescoes.

Find out more about ticket admissions and how to visit the church here.

San Pietro Caveoso (aka Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso)

Situated just next to Saint Mary of Idris’ church, this is the only church in Matera that has not been carved into the rocks.

Perched on the cliff edge of the cliff overlooking the main square, the church was originally built in the 13th century the church has been renovated over time and today it stands with a 17th century Romanesque baroque style facade.

Free to visit! Inside you can explore the ancient frescoes and marvel and the beautifully decorated ceilings.

Walk around the old town

Marvel at the rocks that have stood here since 7500 years BC! Simply wandering through the tiny winding cobbled streets and seeing where you end up is definitely the most magical way to experience this ancient city.

Not only is the city beautiful and mesmerising to stroll through, you’ll also find yourself captivated by its past. The historic significance of Matera can certainly be felt when visiting. If you’re looking to discover more about Matera’s history, then consider booking a guided tour like this one.

Visit a cave house

You can’t go to Matera without visiting one of its carved limestone caves and grottoes. Famed for its labyrinth network of underground cave houses that date back to some of the first human settlements in the world.

There are a number of cave house experiences, but I recommend just picking one or two to visit as it can get slightly repetitive after a while. The uninhabited cave houses are an experience where you’ll learn more about the typical dwellings of a family and their animals before Matera was changed.

Suggested cave house to visit:

Casa Grotta “C’era una volta”

One of the most popular to visit, Casa Grotta is a small museum filled with the traditional furnishings and sculptures of people and a donkey to illustrated just how tight the living quarter were. There’s also an audio guide which offers informative information while you visit.

Casa Grotta nei Sassi

Another cave house filled with the traditional furnishings and tools of the people that once inhabited these dwellings, this cave house is situated nearby to the Rock Church.

 The Laboratory Museum of Rural Life 

This distinctive ethno-anthropological museum is located in a restored 16th century building and the exhibition is dedicated to the local rural community, as well as the ancient crafts of working in old Matera.

Displaying an extensive collection of tools and historical artefacts, it’s definitely visiting to get a better understanding of Matera’s cultural heritage and history!

Located next door to Casa Grotta, the museum is in the ancient Sassi district and is open daily.

Matera Cathedral

Known in Italian as Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Bruna, the Duomo of Matera was completed in 1270 and it sits as the highest and most visible point of the city.

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this beautiful Catholic church is the heart of the city and inside visitors can marvel at the Baroque architecture and see the frescoes of the Chapel of San Giuseppe that lie inside.

Located just off the main square, the cathedral offers the perfect viewpoint over the Sassi and beyond, making it a prime spot for taking photos!

Matera Olive Oil Museum, MOOM

Olive trees grow across the whole Italian peninsula and millions of acres of land are devoted to the production of olive oil, so it will come as no surprise that Italy’s oldest city is home to a museum dedicated to the tasty golden liquid!

The museum is tucked away in an old underground oil mill and is pretty small, but you’ll be guided through an informative exploration of the traditional techniques and tools used in the production of olive oil as well as getting to try some for yourself, making it well worth a visit!

Church of Purgatory

Located just outside the Sassi di Matera is another one of the Matera’s unique churches, known locally as Chiesa del Purgatorio, this church was built between 1725 and 1747 as a place for the people to pray for souls who were trapped in purgatory.

The church doors are adorned with skulls, bones and other death-related decor and inside you can see paintings depicting imagery along the same themes.

Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli 

For one of the best viewpoints of Matera, take a short walk to the lower end of Via Ridola, here you can capture the iconic postcard picture of the city as well as enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi in all its glory!

Sassi in Miniatura

Situated nearby to Matera Cathedral you can visit a limestone model of Matera in miniature!

It took artist Eustachio Rizzi three years to create Sassi in Miniatura, an impressive scale model carved entirely from stone. Free to visit (although donations are welcome) it’s a view point you won’t want to miss.

Ipogeo Matersum

Translated as Underground Matera, this museum is a space where time stands still, offering visitors to truly take in the deep rooted history of this ancient city.

Walking through where people lived and worked, you could easily consider this network of caves another city below the city. An underground neighbourhood of the remains of homes, churches, and even a quarry.

It’s definitely worth the visit, giving time to reflect on the cultural heritage and impressive nature of Matera city and those who lived here.

Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

One of the most important places of Christian pilgrimage in Italy, this beautiful 13th century basilica is dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi (a mystic poet and Catholic friar who founded the religious order of the Franciscans).

A distinctive landmark to those approaching Assisi, the church is situated on the busy square of Piazza san Francesco and is free to visit!

MUSMA di Matera

The Museum of Contemporary Sculpture of Matera is a small museum entirely dedicated to sculptures, ceramics, pottery and various other artefacts.

The exhibition is displayed within the carved interior of a cave and houses over 300 works of art, illustrating the history of 20th-century Italian and international sculpture. 

For a small fee you can visit, and it’s definitely worth it just to explore the historic building its housed in as well as discovering unique world renowned sculptures. Find out more about how to visit MUSMA here.

Dine on local cuisine with a view

Filled with places to eat and drink, there’s nothing better than enjoying traditional Italian cuisine with a view! Whether it’s sitting for a glass of wine as you rest from exploring or indulging in the homemade cuisine, the streets of Matera are lined with charming spots you’ll want to try.

While visiting we ate at Il Terrazzino on the rooftop terrace and the view was absolutely breathtaking! That being said, personally we felt the the price for the food was a little more on the pricier side for what you get.

Church of Madonna della Virtù

Arguably one of the most important monuments of Matera, this monastic complex is carved into the rocky limestone cliffside and comprises of dozens of chambers and chapels over two floors.

Believed to date back as far as the 10th or 11th century, inside visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes, some of which depict San Leonardo and a Crucifixion from the 18th Century. 

Murgia Materana Park (aka Parco della Murgina Materana)

The rugged landscapes that surround Matera are not to be missed when visiting, so if you’re up for an adventure it’s definitely worth exploring the regional park that surrounds the city.

Murgia Park stretches over a rocky surface of 8,000 hectares and is scattered with hidden churches tucked away in caves of the landscape. Aside from its archaeological intrigue, the views from all over the park are truly captivating! In fact, the park (as well as Matera city) has gained status as a UNESCO site.

Palombaro Lungo

One of Matera’s greatest sight’s, the Palombaro Lungo is a huge subterranean cistern carved into the rock that lies just beneath the main plaza. The largest public cistern of the city, it’s used to collect rainwater and can hold up to an impressive 5 million litres of water!

Not a natural cave, this cistern was carved out of the limestone rock in the 16th century and has since been expanded on over the years. Nowadays, visitors are welcome (for a small fee of €3) to wander through and immerse themselves in this historical site.

Where to stay in Matera

If you want to see Matera without the crowds, then you should consider an overnight stay. This way, you can enjoy the city of caves without the day trippers, head out for an evening stroll to see the houses lit up, and even enjoy an evening meal in one of the cave restaurants.

By staying in Matera you’ll also get the chance to experience staying in a cave, albeit with all the conveniences of modern life.

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita: This four-star hotel will allow you to stay within the Sassi di Matera and stay in simple stone rooms with optional extras like terraces. Amenities of the hotel include Wi-Fi, a restaurant onsite, a hot tub, and an airport shuttle for an extra charge. Check prices and availability here.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa: Just a few minutes walk from Mater’a Cathedral, if you want to have an unforgettable stay in Matera, be sure to check yourself into this five-star accommodation. Highlights include a spa, pool, and restaurant onsite. Check prices and availability here.

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