Chiesa di Sant'Agostino
A historic church in Matera offering breathtaking Sassi views and a hidden underground marvel with rare Western-style frescos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chiesa di Sant'Agostino
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic church in Matera offering breathtaking Sassi views and a hidden underground marvel with rare Western-style frescos.
"Great location, definitely one of the nicest viewpoints in all Matera, worth to see."
Ask for the Underground
Inquire at the sacristy to access the incredible underground church with its unique frescos. :key:
Capture the Sassi View
The exterior offers stunning panoramic views of Matera's Sassi. Perfect for family photos! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underground Rupestarian Church
Sacristy access
Explore ancient frescos and medieval history in this hidden subterranean gem, a former predecessor to the main church.
Panoramic Sassi View
Exterior viewpoint
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sassi di Matera from the church's prime location, perfect for memorable photos.
Impressive Frescos
Interior and underground
Marvel at the beautiful Western-style frescos, a unique artistic treasure that stands out from regional Byzantine influences.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask for the Underground
Inquire at the sacristy to access the incredible underground church with its unique frescos. :key:
Capture the Sassi View
The exterior offers stunning panoramic views of Matera's Sassi. Perfect for family photos! :camerawithflash:
Free Admission
Enjoy the church and its art without an entry fee. Donations are welcome. :moneywithwings:
Western-Style Frescos
Discover rare Western-style frescos, a distinct artistic feature compared to typical Byzantine art. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask for the Underground
Inquire at the sacristy to access the incredible underground church with its unique frescos. :key:
Capture the Sassi View
The exterior offers stunning panoramic views of Matera's Sassi. Perfect for family photos! :camerawithflash:
Free Admission
Enjoy the church and its art without an entry fee. Donations are welcome. :moneywithwings:
Western-Style Frescos
Discover rare Western-style frescos, a distinct artistic feature compared to typical Byzantine art. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino for its stunning location offering panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera and its impressive, free-to-access interior. The highlight for many is the opportunity to explore the unique underground church with its rare Western-style frescos, though access requires asking at the sacristy. While the exterior view is often preferred over the interior by some, the overall experience is highly recommended.
"There is a stunning view and the church is really great located. I liked even more the external appearance than interior. Important: in the sacristy (with office) ask for letting you into the underground church that was the former medieval predecessor rich in equipment and frescos that contrary to most other in Matera are western style (less bizantic)"
Sebastian Liksza
"You can find a very nice of view of Sassi Matera."
Peyman Ahmadi
"Great location of the church, definitely one of the nicest viewpoints in all Matera, worth to see"
Paulina Kancerek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chiesa di Sant'Agostino is centrally located in Matera, making it easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the Sassi districts. If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas and walk. It's a popular spot, so many visitors find it convenient to include in their walking tours of the historic center.
Yes, the church boasts a great location and offers one of the nicest viewpoints of the Sassi di Matera. It's often visited in conjunction with other key sites within the Sassi districts, making it a convenient stop on your itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. While there's no charge, donations are appreciated to help maintain the church and its historical treasures.
The church generally follows typical opening hours for religious sites, often open during daylight hours. For specific times, especially if you wish to visit the underground section, it's best to check locally or inquire at the sacristy.
Absolutely! The underground Rupestarian Church of San Giuliano, a former medieval predecessor, is a must-see. You'll need to ask at the sacristy (with the office) for access, as it's not always open to the public.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful frescos, and the church itself is architecturally significant. The real highlight for many is the opportunity to visit the underground church, which contains remarkable medieval equipment and Western-style frescos. +1
Yes, the church offers excellent photo opportunities. The exterior provides stunning panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera, and the interior, especially the underground church, has unique artistic elements perfect for capturing.
The underground church is special because it was the former medieval predecessor, rich in equipment and Western-style frescos. These are distinct from the more common Byzantine art found in other Matera cave churches.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, being located in the heart of Matera's historic center, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and trattorias in the vicinity of Chiesa di Sant'Agostino. You'll find plenty of options to enjoy local Basilicata cuisine after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is the exterior viewpoint offering a sweeping panorama of the Sassi di Matera. Inside, the unique frescos, particularly those in the underground church, also make for compelling photographic subjects.
Generally, photography is permitted inside the church, but it's always good practice to be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage. Flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate frescos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Furthermore, the stunning view of the Sassi di Matera from the church's exterior is a fantastic spot for family photos and a chance to talk about the history of the city. It’s a memorable and educational stop that doesn't require extensive walking within the church itself, making it manageable for families with young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
The real value lies in the unparalleled views of the Sassi di Matera offered from its exterior, a sight that would typically cost money to access from a viewpoint. Additionally, the chance to explore the underground church (by asking at the sacristy) provides a rich historical and artistic experience that rivals paid attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and History of the Underground Church
What makes this underground church particularly fascinating are its Western-style frescos. Unlike the predominantly Byzantine art found in many other cave churches of Matera, these frescos offer a glimpse into a different artistic tradition. The richness of its equipment and the unique style of its artwork make it a truly exceptional find, offering a stark contrast and a deeper understanding of the region's diverse artistic influences.
Exploring this hidden chamber provides a profound connection to the centuries of history embedded within Matera's landscape. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary discoveries lie just beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered by the curious traveler.
Capturing the Iconic Sassi View
Many visitors find this spot ideal for family photos or simply to pause and absorb the breathtaking scenery. The panoramic vista is particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the ancient stones. It’s a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the historical grandeur.
For photographers, this viewpoint offers a fantastic opportunity to capture the essence of Matera. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the expansive views provide a memorable backdrop. Remember to bring your camera and take advantage of this spectacular, and free, photo opportunity.
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