What you will see in Matera during a Sightseeing tour
Embarking on a sightseeing tour in Matera, you’re not just stepping onto the cobblestone streets of an ancient city, you’re walking into the pages of history. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Underground City), Matera is one of the world's oldest inhabited cities and a true marvel of Italy. With its unique landscape dotted with cave dwellings, churches, and breathtaking views, a sightseeing tour in Matera with Happytripz will uncover the hidden beauty and secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Sassi di Matera
The Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings that have made Matera famous worldwide, are undoubtedly the highlight of any sightseeing tour. These limestone caves were once home to people seeking refuge and have been continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years. As you meander through the winding paths and alleyways, you’ll glimpse the remarkably preserved structures that serve as a living museum to human settlement through the ages. For those with a knack for archeology and history, exploring the Sassi with Happytripz is akin to unraveling the layers of time. Learn more about the Sassi di Matera here.
Cathedral of Santa Maria della Bruna
The Cathedral of Santa Maria della Bruna, sitting atop the highest point in the city, is another must-see during your tour. From this vantage point, Happytripz guides will show you panoramic views of the surrounding hills and dwellings, while regaling you with tales of the city’s past.
The Park of the Rupestrian Churches
Beyond the city, the Park of the Rupestrian Churches invites visitors into a spiritual past where over 150 churches, chapels, and hermitages are carved directly into the rocky ravines. The intricately frescoed crypts and sanctuaries are often hidden gems that escape the untrained eye but will be a centerpiece in your sightseeing experience.
As you wander through Matera with Happytripz, here are some other incredible sites you'll encounter:
- Tramontano Castle: Catch a glimpse of the unfinished Renaissance fortress that stands as a reminder of the manor’s feudal history.
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: Visit a typical cave-house from the 18th century to see what daily life was like before relocation policies in the 1950s.
- Belvedere di Murgia Timone: Breathe in the pure air from one of the most stunning lookout points for a postcard-worthy view of Matera. Located across the ravine, it's accessible by a hike, that's both refreshing and enlightening.
Matera’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture makes it an engrossing destination for travelers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or a culture seeker, Happytripz ensures that your sightseeing tour of Matera is as enlightening as it is captivating. Together, we’ll tread lightly through ancient streets, taking in the silence and awe of a city carved from the earth itself. Discover Matera with Happytripz and take home memories of a city that time forgot, but history will always remember.
