An amazing 2.5-hour walkig tour to discover the incredible geological and multi-millennial history of the Unesco heritage of Matera, renamed "city of stones". Group visit of the historic center, of the most significant monuments and of the famous rocky churches.
Matera has an enchanting landscape that was chosen by many artists and directors like Pasolini and Mel Gibson as a location for cinematographic masterpieces. It has a magic atmosphere that you will undoubtedly appreciate with this group visit of its historic center.
You will meet your guide in the centre of Matera to start the walking group tour. It is said to be one of the oldest places in Europe, dating back to the Palaeolithic Age, with some parts of the town crumbling and the rest being restored into swanky hotels.
In 1993, the "Sassi" were declared a Unesco Heritage Site and the town was decleared European Capital of Culture 2019. Matera is also where Mel Gibson filmed "The Passion of the Christ" and Pier Paolo Pasolini "Il Vangelo Secondo Matteo", so the town has been appreciated on the big screen too.
Matera is also known as "the Town of Rocks", "Città dei Sassi" in Italian. There are two "Sassi" areas: Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. In the first, be sure to see the rupestrian churches with monastic complex being one of the most significant monuments in the city.
During the 2.5-hour walking group visit of Matera historic center, you will also visit an ancient rupestrian church. Among the other attractions, you may also visit with your guide the Casa-Grotta in Sasso Caveoso, a historic "Sasso" that will give you a look into life in old Matera.
During the 2.5-hour walking group tour, your local guide will take you through the picturesque alleys of the "Sassi": we can assure that every corner deserves a picture! Another attraction of Matera that should be on your itinerary with the guide will be the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Bruna.
This church was built in the Apulian Romanesque style embellished internally by baroque decorations. Your guide will be an expert of local history, art and culture, so you will be free to ask any questions you should have.
Stop in Matera during a 9day escorted tour in Sicily and Apulia or on a private half day tour departing from Bari.
Meeting point information and local telephone numbers at your destination are included on your Confirmation Voucher.
We suggest wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. In summer, remember to bring a hat and a bottle of water; in autumn/winter, don't forget an umbrella.
Remember to wear appropriate clothing to have access inside the churches on the tour (no shorts, miniskirts, tank tops, or shirts that leave the shoulders uncovered).
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