Sassi of Matera: Complete Tour for up to 15 People

Matera’s Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer visitors a truly immersive experience. This comprehensive tour guides you through the ancient labyrinth of cave dwellings, uncovering the captivating history and cultural heritage of this continuously inhabited settlement. Equipped with headphones and led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore the iconic Cathedral, rock churches, and uncover the fascinating stories that have shaped this extraordinary architectural marvel. With space for up to 15 guests, this tour provides an in-depth and personalized look into the Sassi, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for this unique and captivating destination.

Key Points

• The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO-listed Sassi of Matera, including the Cathedral and rock churches.
• The tour accommodates up to 15 people and provides headphones if the group exceeds 10 travelers.
• The meeting point is at the panoramic Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a 10-minute walk from the starting location.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are permitted.
• Experienced guides offer insights into the Sassi’s history, architecture, and cultural significance, ensuring a captivating and informative experience.

Overview of Matera and Sassi

Matera, an ancient city in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, is renowned for its remarkable Sassi – a unique labyrinth of cave dwellings carved into the surrounding limestone cliffs.

The Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era.

The Sassi are divided into two main districts – Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano – each with its own distinct character and architectural features.

Visitors can explore the winding alleys, ancient churches, and troglodyte dwellings that make up this captivating historic site, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Matera.

Included Tour Experiences

The Matera tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating Sassi, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.

The tour includes a guided visit to the Cathedral, which stands as a testament to the city’s long and storied past, as well as entry to the rock churches of Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s religious history.

Visitors will be equipped with headphones if the group exceeds 10 people, ensuring they can hear the guide’s informative commentary clearly.

The tour package covers all the essential aspects of Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi, delivering a truly enlightening experience.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour’s meeting point is Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a panoramic place just a 10-minute walk from the starting location. Travelers will convene at this designated spot before embarking on their immersive exploration of Matera’s captivating Sassi.

Meeting Point	Pickup Location	End Point
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso	Panoramic place	Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
10-minute walk from start	–	–
Travelers meet here	–	–
Embark on tour from here	–	–
Conveniently located	–	–

After the tour, you will return to the same Piazza San Pietro Caveoso where the experience began, completing the loop of their Sassi discovery.

Tour Details and Confirmation

Upon booking, travelers typically receive confirmation within 12 hours, ensuring a seamless start to their Matera adventure.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller access and service animals are permitted. While not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

The tour can accommodate a maximum of 10 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience. Participants will explore the Sassi of Matera, including the Cathedral and the rock churches of Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone, with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide.

Headphones will be provided if the group exceeds 10 people, ensuring everyone can hear the commentary clearly.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Canceling a tour less than 24 hours before the scheduled start time results in no refund, as the policy strictly prohibits changes within that timeframe.

Travelers can request a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The tour operator offers alternative dates or a full refund in the event of poor weather conditions that force the cancellation of the tour.

A minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to proceed as scheduled.

The cancellation policy ensures the tour operator can effectively plan and manage the tour, while providing flexibility for travelers who need to change their plans in advance.

Adherence to this policy helps maintain a smooth and reliable tour experience for all participants.

Accessibility and Restrictions

According to the tour details, the Matera tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is located near public transportation.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. Visitors should be aware of the physical demands of the tour, as it involves navigating narrow streets and uneven terrain.

The tour is designed for a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable experience. Guests should consider their mobility and health status before booking to ensure the tour meets their needs and abilities.

Tour Guide Service

The tour guide service is included in the Matera tour, providing knowledgeable and experienced guides to lead visitors through the historic Sassi of Matera. These guides offer insights into the city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural significance, ensuring a captivating and informative experience for all participants.

The guides are well-versed in the intricate details of the Sassi, from the ancient rock-hewn dwellings to the hidden churches and caves that dot the landscape. They’ll share fascinating stories and anecdotes, bringing the past to life and providing a deeper understanding of the unique and UNESCO-listed Sassi.

With their expertise, visitors can explore this remarkable destination with confidence, gaining a true appreciation for its remarkable heritage.

Additional Information

Along With the guided tour, the Matera experience includes access to notable landmarks like the Cathedral and the rock churches of Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone, enriching visitors’ understanding of the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage. The tour also provides headphones for groups exceeding 10 people, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience. Guests should note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted. Plus, pregnant travelers and those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions may want to consult with their healthcare providers before booking.

Meeting Point	End Point
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, Panoramic place, 10 minutes walk from start point	Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Confirmation	Cancellation Policy
Within 12 hours of booking	Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s important to respect any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide to ensure an enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider doesn’t offer discounts for students or seniors. However, they may consider providing discounts for larger groups or travelers booking in advance. It’s best to check with the tour provider for their current offers and policies.

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours, though the exact duration may vary depending on the pace and interests of the group. Visitors should plan accordingly, allowing sufficient time to fully explore the historical Sassi district of Matera.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a scheduled lunch stop. However, visitors can explore the local restaurants and cafes in Matera during free time throughout the tour or at the end of the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for exploring historic sites. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended, as the tour involves navigating narrow streets and cave dwellings.

Recap

The Sassi of Matera tour offers visitors a truly unique and immersive experience. With knowledgeable guides, headphones, and access to the ancient cave dwellings, Cathedral, and rock churches, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site‘s fascinating history and architectural marvel.

The comprehensive tour caters to small groups of up to 15 people, providing an intimate and unforgettable exploration of this continuously inhabited settlement.