Guided tour of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso

Explore Matera’s Sasso Districts for an Authentic Experience

The guided tour of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso offers a comprehensive look into one of Italy’s most captivating towns. Priced at $39.86 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour is ideal for visitors eager to uncover the secrets of Matera’s ancient stones. The tour begins at Via Don Giovanni Minzoni and ends in Piazza Pascoli, providing a seamless experience through the city’s historic heart.

What makes this tour stand out is its detailed exploration of Matera’s rock churches, neighborhoods, and film locations. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engagement, making the journey more than just sightseeing. While a moderate walking pace and comfortable shoes are recommended, the tour’s depth and inclusions make it a worthwhile choice for history, architecture, and film fans alike.

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Key Points

• Complete 3-hour guided exploration of Matera’s Sasso districts
• Includes entry to key churches: Santa Maria de Armenis, Santa Maria de Idris, and Casa Grotta
• Visits iconic spots: Guerricchio balcony, Piazza Duomo rock church, and film locations
• Led by a knowledgeable, engaging Italian guide
• Suitable for those comfortable with walking; no strollers or mobility aids allowed
• Affordable price with flexible cancellation options

Discovering the Historic Districts of Matera

This tour focuses on the two main districts of Matera, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. These neighborhoods are famous for their rock formations, ancient buildings, and churches carved into stone. The tour offers a complete picture of the city’s layout, highlighting how residents have lived in these rocky environments for centuries.

Walking through Via Beccherire and Piazza Duomo, visitors get a sense of the urban fabric that has persisted over generations. The Guerricchio balcony provides a stunning view overlooking Sasso Barisano, making it an ideal spot for photos. The tour culminates in the Piazza Pascoli, where the sense of history and storytelling converge.

Exploring the Rock Churches of Matera

A major highlight is visiting the rock churches, including Santa Maria de Armenis and Santa Maria de Idris. These rock-cut structures reveal the spiritual life of past inhabitants, with some dating back centuries. The entry tickets included in the tour ensure travelers can explore these churches of significant historical and artistic value.

The Santa Maria de Armenis church stands out for its baroque architecture, while the Santa Maria de Idris is known for its unique rock-hewn design. The tour also features a visit to the Grotta house, showcasing how people used to live in these caves. The Barbaric cemetery further enriches the narrative, offering insights into ancient burial customs.

Walking Through Matera’s Film Fame and Neighborhoods

Matera’s distinctive landscape has served as a backdrop for many film productions, and the tour highlights the neighborhoods and locations used in movies. Walking through these areas, visitors can imagine scenes from famous films and understand why filmmakers are drawn to Matera’s timeless ambiance.

The tour’s path takes you along saliate (stairs) and scalini (small steps), emphasizing the city’s vertical urban layout. The neighborhoods are lively with history, providing a vivid sense of how residents have adapted to the rocky terrain over centuries.

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The Unique Experience of Casa Grotta and Cemeteries

Included in the tour is a visit to the Casa Grotta, where visitors see a typical cave dwelling. This reconstructed home offers a glimpse into the everyday life of ancient Materans, illustrating how houses were carved into the rock.

The barbaric cemetery is another significant stop, offering insights into burial traditions. These sites deepen the understanding of local customs and the community’s connection to their environment.

Guides and Tour Logistics: What You Need to Know

This tour features a live Italian-speaking guide, known for their enthusiasm and expertise. Reviews praise the guide, especially Simone, for making the experience engaging and informative. The group size is manageable, ensuring personal attention, though this tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

The meeting point is marked by a statue of a bersagliere (Italian soldier) at Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, making it easy to locate. The tour ends back at the starting point in Piazza Pascoli, completing a full circle through Matera’s historic fabric.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and What to Bring

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve and pay later, offering travelers full flexibility. The full refund is available if cancellation occurs up to 24 hours in advance. The tour lasts about 3 hours, so wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended to handle the walking terrain.

Note that baby strollers and baby carriages are not permitted, due to the uneven surfaces and stairs. The activity takes place mainly in dry weather, with no need to worry about rain unless it is exceptionally heavy.

Comparing to Similar Matera Tours

This comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into Matera’s history, architecture, and film fame. It stands out among other options by including entry to multiple rock churches and the Casa Grotta, as well as focusing on the two main Sasso districts.

While some tours might offer shorter or private experiences, this option balances depth and affordability, making it a good choice for those wanting a thorough introduction without excessive cost.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and film buffs interested in Matera’s cinematic appeal. It suits walkers comfortable with moderate terrain, given the stairs and uneven surfaces. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed sightseeing pace.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides guarantee an engaging experience, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a complete overview of Matera’s Sasso neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts on the Matera Sasso Guided Tour

This 3-hour guided exploration of Matera’s Sasso districts offers exceptional value through entry to key rock churches, visits to historic neighborhoods, and insights into local customs and film locations. With a high rating of 4.7 stars from three reviews, it clearly appeals to those looking for an enriching and authentic experience.

While not suitable for everyone due to walking requirements, the expert guides and comprehensive itinerary make it an excellent choice for anyone eager to understand Matera’s unique landscape and history. The affordable price and flexible cancellation policy further enhance its appeal to savvy travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers tickets to the churches Santa Maria de Armenis, Santa Maria de Idris, and Casa Grotta.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a relaxed yet in-depth look at Matera’s Sasso neighborhoods.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to stairs and uneven terrain. Baby strollers and carriages are not allowed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, marked by a statue of a bersagliere, and concludes at Piazza Pascoli in Matera.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on stone surfaces and stairs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

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