The City of Stone
Step into a continuous human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Discover the intricate network of caves carved directly into the calcarenitic rock.
Start Your Journey
Step into a continuous human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Discover the intricate network of caves carved directly into the calcarenitic rock.
Start Your JourneyThe Sassi ("stones") districts of Matera consist of subterranean dwellings, cisterns, and rupestrian churches carved into the steep slopes of the Gravina river ravine. The architecture is defined by subtraction rather than construction.
Historically, the roofs of lower dwellings often served as the streets or floors for the houses built above them. This complex labyrinth includes over 150 rock-hewn churches featuring Byzantine-style frescoes painted directly onto the stone walls.
Matera is located in the southern Italian region of Basilicata. The old town consists of two main districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.
Climate Parameters: The region features a Mediterranean climate. Summer temperatures are high, regularly reaching 30°C to 35°C during July and August, while winters are generally cool, averaging around 5°C to 10°C.
Due to the steep, uneven stone stairs and lack of vehicle access within the Sassi, visitors are advised to wear robust walking footwear.
* Independent walking is permitted 24/7, but interior access requires scheduled entry.
* Access passes include entrance to Casa Grotta (traditional cave house museum).
Tours depart from Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Advance reservations are highly recommended to secure access to the subterranean water cisterns (Palombaro Lungo).
+39 0835 331 011Contact the official visitor center daily from 09:00 to 19:00.