Attractions and Places To See around Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera - Top 20

The park is situated on the Murgia plateau, characterized by deep ravines formed by the Gravina torrent. A key natural feature is the Gravina River itself, which you can cross via the Suspension bridge over the Gravina. For breathtaking panoramic views of Matera and the Sassi, especially at dusk, visit Belvedere Murgia Timone, located on the opposite side of the Gravina gorge from the city.

The park is rich in historical and cultural sites, primarily its numerous rock churches and ancient cave dwellings. You can visit the Rock Church of Santa Rita, a 12th-century rock-cut church, or the Church of Saints Peter and Paul (San Pietro Caveoso), Matera, known for its Baroque facade and rich interior. The Sassi districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, are also part of this UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing continuous human occupation from the Paleolithic era.

Yes, the park offers several hiking opportunities. You can access the 'Sentiero 406' hiking trail from the Sentiero 406 Trailhead, which leads across the Suspension bridge over the Gravina to the Belvedere. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera, which include routes like the 'View of Matera from the caves' loop.

The best time to visit is typically during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring. Summers can be very hot, especially during central hours, so it's advisable to avoid strenuous activities during midday if visiting in July or August.

Many sites within the park are suitable for families. Exploring the ancient cave dwellings, such as the Casa Grotta in the Sassi of Matera, offers a realistic glimpse into past life and is often appreciated by children. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul (San Pietro Caveoso), Matera is also listed as family-friendly. The unique landscape and historical context provide an engaging educational experience for all ages.

To understand how inhabitants lived in the Sassi, you can visit a faithfully reconstructed typical Sassi dwelling like the Casa Grotta in the Sassi of Matera. These sites offer a realistic reconstruction of the living conditions and traditions of the past, providing valuable insight into Matera's unique history.

There are various cycling routes nearby. For touring bicycles, you can find options like the 'Sedile Square – Church of San Biagio loop from Rioni Sassi' or an 'easy Bike loop from Rioni Sassi'. If you prefer gravel biking, consider routes such as 'The Sassi of Matera – View of Matera's Sassi loop from Matera Centrale'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the cycling guide and gravel biking guide for the region.

The park is home to over 150 rock churches. Significant examples include the Rock Church of Santa Rita, carved into the rock near the Gravina River canyon. Other notable rock churches mentioned in the region's history include Santa Maria de Idris, San Pietro Barisano (the largest), and Santa Lucia alle Malve, known for its well-preserved frescoes.

The Palombaro Lungo is an impressive ancient underground cistern located beneath Vittorio Veneto square in Matera's old town. It's a fascinating example of Matera Sotterranea, showcasing the ingenious water collection systems developed by the city's inhabitants over centuries.

Yes, within the Murgia Materana Park, you can explore archaeological remains of a Neolithic town. These ruins include farms, sheep pens ('jazzo'), water tanks, and wells, offering insight into the daily life of the region's prehistoric inhabitants and their adaptation to the environment.

Visitors frequently praise the unique historical and cultural value of the area. The Suspension bridge over the Gravina is often highlighted for its breathtaking views of Matera. The rock-cut churches, like the Rock Church of Santa Rita, are appreciated for their rich history and fascinating architecture. Many also find the reconstructed cave dwellings, such as the Casa Grotta in the Sassi of Matera, to be a very realistic and insightful experience.