Matera’s Ancient Cave City
Port
Taranto
Activity Level
high
Duration
5:30 Hours
Join us on a guided journey through the extraordinary Sassi di Matera, one of Italy’s most captivating ancient treasures. Carved into the walls of a dramatic river canyon, these timeless cave dwellings offer a rare glimpse into prehistoric life—some structures date as far back as 10,000 BC, making this one of the earliest human settlements in the country.
As you wander through the maze of stone-carved homes and churches, you’ll see how the Sassi were ingeniously built: pathways double as rooftops, and entire neighbourhoods are seamlessly carved into the rock face. You’ll step inside an authentic cave dwelling and explore one of Matera’s remarkable grotto churches, beautifully decorated and steeped in history.
High above the town stands the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria della Bruna. Built in elegant Apulian Romanesque style, its soaring 52‑metre bell tower dominates the skyline and offers sweeping views over this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Film lovers may recognize Matera as the atmospheric backdrop for Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, adding a touch of Hollywood mystique to this ancient wonder.
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