Attractions and Places To See around Altamura - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Altamura include a blend of historical, cultural, and natural sites within Italy's Puglia region. The city is situated on the Murge plateau, offering diverse landscapes from ancient cathedrals to significant geological features. Visitors can explore centuries of history alongside unique natural wonders, including impressive karst formations and prehistoric discoveries. The area provides a comprehensive experience of both human heritage and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Altamura
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Last updated: October 9, 2026
Matera Cathedral (Cathedral of the Madonna of the Bruna and Saint Eustace)
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Suspension bridge over the Gravina
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Church of Saints Peter and Paul (San Pietro Caveoso), Matera
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Church of San Francesco d'Assisi and Dalí sculpture, Matera
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Sassi of Matera
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The southern Italian city of Matera is impressive and attractive, but at the same time also mysterious and a bit rough. It looks more like a labyrinth of stone houses, steep staircases and narrow streets. The Sassi di Matera, or Stones of Matera, is full of caves that were once inhabited and were therefore a disgrace to Italy. Times have changed suddenly, and today the Sassi di Matera are the pride not only of the city, but also of the entire Basilicata region, in which Matera is located.
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Matera is an Italian city in the Basilicata region, the capital of the province of the same name. It lies on the edge of the Murgia plateau. Its surroundings are home to the most important caveman settlements in the Mediterranean region. Since 1993, the "Sassi di Matera" (Stones of Matera), the oldest part of the city, have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Matera is an Italian city in the Basilicata region, the capital of the province of the same name. It lies on the edge of the Murgia plateau. Its surroundings are home to the most important caveman settlements in the Mediterranean region. Since 1993, the "Sassi di Matera" (Stones of Matera), the oldest part of the city, have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The Cathedral of Matera (Italian: Cattedrale della Madonna della Bruna e di Sant'Eustachio) is a Roman Catholic church in Matera, Italy. The cathedral of the Archdiocese of Matera-Irsina bears the title of a minor basilica. The church was built in the 13th century in the Apulian Romanesque style and stands on the highest point of the city between the two Sassi. Source and further information can be found at: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathedrale_von_Matera
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Metera with its Sassi and rock churches is impressive.
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The Cathedral of Matera , which has the official name of Cathedral of the Madonna della Bruna and Sant'Eustachio , is the main Catholic place of worship in Matera , the mother church of the Archdiocese of Matera-Irsina . The cathedral was built in Apulian Romanesque style in the 13th century on the highest spur of the Civita that divides the two Sassi . Built on the site of a previous Norman castle and as recent excavations on a previous early Christian place of worship attest, it is the most majestic cathedral in the region. On the site of the ancient Benedictine monastery of Sant'Eustachio , protector of the city, where Pope Urban II had already stayed between 1093 and 1094, the cathedral was built starting in 1230 , a few years after Pope Innocent III had elevated the city of Matera to the rank of archdiocese in union with Acerenza; it was erected at the behest of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia , Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire and Count of Matera . To ensure that the new temple dominated with its mass the surrounding buildings and the two underlying valleys of the Sassi, it was necessary to raise the rocky base by over six metres.
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Dreamy Matera 👍 Old town and the caves 👍
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Cathedral of San Pietro Caveoso 👍 Also worth seeing from the inside 👍
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Altamura?
Altamura is rich in history. You can visit the magnificent Altamura Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), a 13th-century Romanesque masterpiece. Wander through the labyrinthine Historic Center with its narrow streets and unique 'claustri'. For insights into prehistoric times, explore the Palazzo Baldassarre - Museum of Human Evolution, which details the discovery of the Altamura Man, or the Altamura National Archaeological Museum.
Are there any natural attractions or unique geological features near Altamura?
Absolutely. The most prominent natural feature is the Pulo of Altamura, one of the largest karst sinkholes in the Murge area, offering stunning views and prehistoric caves. You can also discover the Dinosaur Footprints at Contrada Pontrelli, one of the world's richest sites for dinosaur tracks, and learn about the Altamura Man at the Lamalunga Cave.
What family-friendly activities are available around Altamura?
Many attractions around Altamura are suitable for families. Exploring the Historic Center and its ancient bakeries can be an engaging experience. The Matera Cathedral and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in nearby Matera are also marked as family-friendly. The natural sites like the Pulo of Altamura offer open spaces for exploration.
Where can I experience local culture and traditions in Altamura?
Altamura is famous for its 'Pane di Altamura'. You can visit ancient bakeries like Forno Antico Santa Caterina or Antico Forno Santa Chiara to taste this PDO-certified bread and observe traditional baking techniques. The Historic Center itself, with its 'claustri', offers a glimpse into the city's unique urban layout and social history.
What outdoor activities can I do in the Altamura area?
The region around Altamura, particularly within the Alta Murgia National Park, is ideal for outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for hiking, running, and gravel biking. For detailed routes, explore the hiking trails around Altamura, running trails, or gravel biking routes.
Are there any notable viewpoints or scenic spots near Altamura?
Yes, several locations offer breathtaking views. The Pulo of Altamura provides a unique panorama, especially at sunset. From the Suspension bridge over the Gravina near Matera, you can get a stunning perspective of the gorge and the city. The Matera Cathedral, perched on the highest point, also offers commanding views.
What is the Alta Murgia National Park, and what can I do there?
The Alta Murgia National Park surrounds Altamura and is characterized by dramatic karst landscapes, rolling hills, and ancient ruins. It's a haven for nature lovers and hikers. Within the park, you can visit sites like the Pulo of Altamura and the Dinosaur Footprints. It's perfect for trekking and exploring the unique Apulian environment.
Can I visit Matera from Altamura?
Yes, Altamura serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby Matera. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi). Key attractions there include the Matera Cathedral, the Suspension bridge over the Gravina, and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul.
Are there any museums in Altamura worth visiting?
Altamura offers several museums. The Palazzo Baldassarre - Museum of Human Evolution provides multimedia exhibits on the Altamura Man. The Altamura National Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from prehistoric to Roman times. Additionally, the MUDIMA - Diocesan Museum Matronei Altamura, located within the cathedral, displays religious art and relics.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Altamura?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from natural sites like the Pulo of Altamura, often highlighting its unique beauty and suitability for outdoor activities. The historical depth of sites like the Matera Cathedral and the charm of Matera's Sassi are also highly appreciated for their cultural and visual impact.
Are there any specific hiking trails I should consider near Altamura?
Yes, the area offers various hiking trails. A popular option is the 'Pulo di Altamura – loop tour in the Alta Murgia National Park', which is a moderate 2.7 km hike. For more challenging routes, consider 'From Casal Sabini on the Footsteps of Dinosaurs along the Peuceta Way'. You can find more options on the hiking guide for Altamura.
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