Matera: Crypt of Original Sin & light luch

The Matera: Crypt of Original Sin & Light Lunch tour offers a compelling combination of history, art, and culinary tradition in the heart of Basilicata, Italy. With a duration of 1.5 hours and a provider rating of 4.5, this experience is designed for those who want to explore one of Matera’s most evocative sites, the Crypt of Original Sin, and end with a relaxed tasting at a historic masseria.

The tour includes an entrance ticket to the crypt, along with an audio guide available in several languages—making it accessible and informative for international visitors. After the exploration, a light lunch featuring authentic Lucanian products provides a delicious finale to the visit. It’s a perfect blend of cultural discovery and culinary enjoyment, suited for travelers interested in history, art, and regional flavors.

Key Points

• Visit the Crypt of Original Sin with an entrance ticket and audio guide available in multiple languages.
• Explore 8th-9th century frescoes created by the Painter of the Flowers of Matera, depicting biblical stories from Creation to Original Sin.
• Learn about the Lombard period when the crypt served as part of a Benedictine rocky coenoby.
• Enjoy a traditional light lunch at a historic masseria with local Materan dishes.
• The tour lasts 1.5 hours and takes place at Masseria Casal Dragone in Matera.
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or bachelor/bachelorette groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Crypt of Original Sin in Matera

The Crypt of Original Sin is the star of this tour. Dating back to the Lombard period, it was once the center of a Benedictine rocky coenoby. Inside, visitors find frescoes from the 8th-9th century that vividly depict biblical scenes. These paintings are attributed to the Painter of the Flowers of Matera, whose work brings to life stories from Creation to Original Sin.

The walls feature extraordinary figures, including the Apostles, the Virgin Queen, and Archangels. Thanks to a delicate restoration, the frescoes have regained much of their original splendor after years of natural decay. The audio guide enhances the experience by explaining the significance of each scene in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, and Russian.

Inside the Benedictine Rocky Coenoby

The crypt is part of a sacred complex that once hosted Benedictine monks during the Lombard era. Its walls tell a silent story of religious life and artistic devotion from over a millennium ago. The restoration process has helped preserve the frescoes, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism embedded within the walls.

The crypt’s historical significance lies in its connection to Matera’s ancient monastic traditions. Visitors often note the sense of reverence that the setting imparts, making it more than just an art display—it’s a glimpse into the spiritual world of the past.

Practical Details of the Visit to the Crypt

The meeting point for the tour is inside Masseria Casal Dragone, at the reception area with coordinates (40.61845779418945, 16.55694580078125). The experience is scheduled to last around 1.5 hours, offering enough time to explore the crypt in detail with the help of the audio guide.

Since cameras, drones, and recording devices are not allowed inside the crypt, visitors are encouraged to focus on the visual and spiritual experience. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the site.

The Light Lunch at Masseria Casal Dragone

Following the exploration, visitors are welcomed to a historic masseria for a light lunch. This meal features typical Lucanian products, giving a taste of regional flavors in a traditional setting. The masseria’s atmosphere complements the historical theme, providing a relaxed space to enjoy local delicacies.

The lunch is designed as a banquet-style experience, emphasizing authentic ingredients and regional cooking styles. It’s an ideal way to finish the tour, pairing culinary tradition with cultural storytelling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Logistics and Booking Options

The tour can be booked with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures a full refund if plans change. The host or greeter speaks English, making communication straightforward for international visitors.

The group size is designed for a manageable, engaging experience, though specific size details aren’t provided. Since bachelor and bachelorette parties are not allowed, the focus remains on the historical and cultural exploration.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Matera

This tour is part of a broader selection of visits and guided walks in Matera. It stands out for combining artistic discovery—through the frescoes—and a culinary experience at a historic masseria. Other options include guided walking tours of the Sassi, visits to cave churches, and artisan workshops, but this package’s unique feature is the Crypt of Original Sin paired with regional eating.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

While the tour offers a rich experience, it’s important to note that it is not suitable for visitors with mobility impairments. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces and be prepared for a moderate pace exploring the crypt. Cameras and recording devices are not allowed in the crypt, so plan to enjoy the experience without photography inside.

Final Verdict: A Unique Blend of Art, Faith, and Flavors

The Matera: Crypt of Original Sin & Light Lunch tour provides a fascinating journey into early medieval art and Benedictine spirituality. The opportunity to see 8th-9th century frescoes created by an anonymous master adds depth to the visit, while the culinary segment offers a delightful taste of local Materan cuisine.

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and foodies eager to explore Matera beyond just its famous Sassi. The well-rated guide, informative audio, and authentic regional food make it a worthwhile choice for a compact, meaningful outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments. It is designed for visitors able to navigate the crypt’s environment comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the exploration of the crypt and the light lunch.

Are there any restrictions on photography inside the crypt?
Yes, cameras and audio recording are not allowed inside the crypt to preserve the site.

What languages is the audio guide available in?
The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, German, French, and Russian.

What does the light lunch include?
The lunch features typical Lucanian products served at a historic masseria, offering regional flavors in a relaxed setting.

Where exactly does the tour start?
The tour begins inside Masseria Casal Dragone, at the reception area with coordinates (40.61845779418945, 16.55694580078125).

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What type of experience is this?
It combines artistic discovery with culinary tradition in a historical setting, perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth and regional taste.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the audio guide is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, German, French, and Russian.

How do I reserve my spot?
Bookings can be made with the “reserve now, pay later” option for flexible planning.

This Matera experience promises a meaningful look at early Benedictine art, complemented by a regional tasting, making it an engaging choice for those interested in Italy’s cultural and culinary treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby