GemmaIf you’re planning your first trip to Matera, Italy, get ready for a journey unlike any other. This ancient city, carved into limestone cliffs and brimming with history, looks like something straight out of a movie set—or perhaps an artist’s wildest dream. But beyond its stunning facades, Matera offers experiences that will stay with you long after you leave. From my own personal experience, this is one of those cities where wandering without a strict plan actually works in your favor—you’ll discover treasures in every corner.
Here’s a detailed guide on 10 things you absolutely need to do in Matera if it’s your first visit.
Explore the Sassi di Matera
No trip to Matera is complete without exploring the Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings that give this city its unique character. These stone homes, carved into the cliffs, are a living museum. Walking through the winding alleys, you’ll notice the interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the stone walls, and the sheer ingenuity of the architecture.
Tip: Try to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to catch the soft sunlight that makes the Sassi glow. From my own personal experience, the quiet mornings are perfect for feeling like you’ve stepped back in time—without the crowds.
Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
For a closer look at what life was like in Matera decades ago, head to Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario. This museum preserves a traditional cave house exactly as it was lived in during the 20th century. You’ll see handmade furniture, simple kitchen tools, and modest living spaces that reveal the resourcefulness of the inhabitants.
It’s both fascinating and humbling. You might find yourself imagining the stories of the families who once called these caves home.
Wander Through the Rupestrian Churches
Matera isn’t just about homes carved into rock—it’s also rich with spiritual history. The city boasts over 150 rupestrian (rock-hewn) churches, many adorned with frescoes that have survived for centuries.
Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Barisano are particularly noteworthy. Don’t rush your visit—take the time to appreciate the details, the colors, and the way the sunlight filters through small windows, illuminating the sacred art. These churches are quiet and reflective spaces, perfect for slowing down your pace.
Take in the Panoramic Views from Belvedere
If you love viewpoints, Matera won’t disappoint. Head to the Belvedere di Murgia Timone or the Piazza Vittorio Veneto for panoramic views of the Sassi and the surrounding valleys. The landscape here is dramatic, almost otherworldly, with rolling hills punctuated by the stone city clinging to cliffs.
From my overall experience, these spots are magical at sunset. The city glows in warm, golden light, and the shadows of the cave dwellings stretch across the hills like a living painting.
Experience Matera’s Culinary Scene
Italian food needs no introduction, but Matera adds its own twist. From homemade orecchiette pasta to the famous Pane di Matera, the local bread, every meal is a chance to taste tradition. Make sure to try local cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables sourced from nearby farms.
For a more immersive experience, consider joining a cooking class. Learning how to make pasta from scratch or preparing a local dessert gives you a tangible memory of the city. From my own personal experience, nothing beats the satisfaction of enjoying a meal you helped create in a setting as stunning as Matera.
Discover the Palombaro Lungo
Beneath the city streets lies Palombaro Lungo, a massive underground cistern that once collected water for the residents. This hidden gem showcases the ingenuity of Matera’s inhabitants, who created a functioning water system centuries ago.
Visiting the cistern is like stepping into a hidden world—echoing chambers, stone tunnels, and the faint trickle of water remind you that this city is as practical as it is beautiful. It’s also cooler underground, which is a nice break if you’re visiting in summer.
Take a Guided Walking Tour
While wandering alone has its charm, a guided walking tour can add layers of understanding to what you see. Knowledgeable guides share stories that history books often overlook: who lived where, how families survived in cave homes, and the transformation of Matera from poverty-stricken area to UNESCO World Heritage site.
These tours often include behind-the-scenes access to private homes or lesser-known churches. From my overall experience, the storytelling makes the city come alive in ways that you might miss on your own.
Explore Modern Art and Cultural Spaces
Matera is not stuck in the past—it’s a city that balances history with contemporary culture. Check out art galleries, workshops, and cultural centers scattered throughout the city.
The MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture) is particularly fascinating. It combines modern art with the ancient cave setting, creating a surreal and thought-provoking experience. This mix of old and new is one of the things you’ll truly love about Matera.
Enjoy a Scenic Walk Along the Gravina
The Gravina, a deep ravine surrounding Matera, offers scenic walking trails with breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re into photography or just enjoying nature, this area provides a quiet escape from the bustling streets.
From my own personal experience, a stroll here during late afternoon offers a sense of peace and wonder. The light hits the rock formations just right, making the entire area feel like a secret waiting to be discovered.
Attend a Local Festival or Event
Matera comes alive during its festivals, which celebrate everything from religious traditions to food and music. If your visit aligns with one of these events, make sure to participate.
Events such as the Matera Balloon Festival or traditional folk celebrations provide a deeper connection to the city’s culture. You’ll see locals in traditional dress, taste seasonal treats, and experience a lively, authentic side of Matera that most first-time visitors miss.
Matera is more than a destination—it’s an experience that unfolds layer by layer. From exploring ancient cave dwellings to tasting local delicacies, wandering through sacred churches, and discovering hidden cisterns, every moment offers something new. First-time visitors often find themselves unexpectedly enchanted by its charm, history, and unique blend of old and new.
Take your time, wander off the beaten path, and embrace the city’s slow, meditative pace. From my overall experience, you’ll leave Matera not just with photos and souvenirs, but with memories that feel carved into your own story.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.