Sassi in Miniatura
Explore an astonishing 12 sqm miniature replica of Matera's Sassi, crafted with incredible detail by local artisans. A unique perspective on a UNESCO ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See artisans at work
Sassi in Miniatura
Best Time
See artisans at work
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an astonishing 12 sqm miniature replica of Matera's Sassi, crafted with incredible detail by local artisans. A unique perspective on a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"The miniature Sassi is downstairs, and it is shockingly big and beautiful. Almost as good as the real Sassi."
Explore the Lower Level
Don't miss the main attraction: the massive miniature Sassi replica downstairs! It's truly impressive.
See Artisans in Action
You can often watch the artists at work, adding a special touch to your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Miniature Sassi Replica
Downstairs exhibition area
An astonishingly detailed 12 sqm replica of Matera's Sassi, offering a unique perspective on the ancient city.
Artisan Workshop
Main shop floor
Witness skilled artisans crafting ceramics and other unique souvenirs, bringing the artistry of Matera to life.
Handcrafted Souvenirs
Main shop floor
Discover high-quality, locally made ceramics, lamps, and decorative items that make for perfect mementos.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Miniature Matera Visit
Souvenirs & Craftsmanship
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore the Lower Level
Don't miss the main attraction: the massive miniature Sassi replica downstairs! It's truly impressive.
See Artisans in Action
You can often watch the artists at work, adding a special touch to your visit.
Quality Souvenirs
Find unique, locally made ceramics and lamps that are higher quality than typical tourist shops.
Payment Options
Be aware that sometimes the POS system might be down; it's good to have cash on hand.
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore the Lower Level
Don't miss the main attraction: the massive miniature Sassi replica downstairs! It's truly impressive.
See Artisans in Action
You can often watch the artists at work, adding a special touch to your visit.
Quality Souvenirs
Find unique, locally made ceramics and lamps that are higher quality than typical tourist shops.
Payment Options
Be aware that sometimes the POS system might be down; it's good to have cash on hand.
Shipping Considerations
Shipping to the US is available but can be costly, sometimes exceeding the item's price.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunningly detailed miniature replica of Matera's Sassi, calling it a must-visit for its scale and artistry. The shop also impresses with high-quality, locally made ceramics and lamps, and the chance to see artisans at work. Some minor inconveniences include potential payment issues with the POS system.
"This is a phenomenal souvenir shop. You can see them working on pieces in the shop as well. They’ve got magnets, clocks, little mortal and pestles (not functional since the stone is soft) and of course the lamps! Really great quality goods compared to other shops. They do offer shipping to the US but unfortunately it costs more than the pieces themselves. Go downstairs and check out the absolutely stunning miniature displays."
Selina Iqbal
"I went to this store to buy some things with my friends for about 80€.
The gentleman said that the POS is not working, I think it is very bad and it is ugly!
I do not recommend it under any circumstances for tourists!"
Aris Meintanis
"This place must be visited. The miniature Sassi is downstairs, and it is shockingly big and beautiful. Almost as good as the real Sassi. I was very impressed!"
Reka Tatai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sassi in Miniatura is located within Matera, often accessible by foot if you are already exploring the Sassi districts. If arriving by car, look for parking near the historic center and then walk. It's a popular spot for tourists visiting the main Sassi areas.
Yes, it's generally well-marked and situated in a popular tourist area. Many visitors stumble upon it while exploring the Sassi.
Many visitors recommend walking through the actual Sassi districts first to get a feel for the city, then visiting the miniature version for a unique perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the shop and the miniature replica display downstairs is typically free. It's an exhibition space within a souvenir shop.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during typical daytime business hours, especially when tourists are active. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs if you're visiting during off-peak seasons.
No, the miniature Sassi display is usually accessible without a separate admission fee as part of the shop experience.
Absolutely! The shop offers a wide range of handcrafted souvenirs, ceramics, and lamps.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the shop and for the miniature display. Capturing the intricate details of the replica is highly recommended.
The entire miniature replica downstairs is a fantastic photo opportunity. Try to get wide shots to capture its scale and close-ups of specific architectural details.
While generally permitted, it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors and the artisans if they are working.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find high-quality ceramics, decorative lamps, magnets, and other unique items inspired by Matera's architecture.
Yes, many of the items are handcrafted by local artisans, making them special and authentic souvenirs.
Often, yes! Visitors report seeing artisans at work, which adds to the experience and appreciation of the craftsmanship.
Prices vary, but many visitors find the value to be good for the quality of handcrafted items. You can find smaller items like magnets to larger decorative pieces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that while the miniature display is engaging, the shop itself is still a retail space. Ensure children are supervised to avoid accidental damage to the delicate displays or merchandise. The experience is generally free, making it an accessible and enjoyable addition to a family's Matera itinerary.
🎁 Souvenir Hunters
Don't overlook the opportunity to see artisans potentially working on their crafts, providing insight into the creation process. While shipping is an option, be mindful of the costs. It's often best to purchase items you can easily transport, or be prepared for potentially high shipping fees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Sassi in Miniatura
Many visitors are struck by the sheer scale and intricacy of the model. It's particularly rewarding to explore after you've walked through the actual Sassi, as you can then recognize specific cave dwellings, churches, and alleyways you've encountered. The craftsmanship involved in recreating such a vast and complex landscape on a smaller scale is truly remarkable, making it a must-see for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply appreciating incredible artistry.
Beyond the main exhibit, the shop itself showcases a range of high-quality, locally made souvenirs. You can find beautiful ceramics, decorative lamps, and other artisanal items that reflect the cultural heritage of Matera. Some visitors have even had the chance to witness the artisans at work, adding an interactive element to the shopping experience and a deeper understanding of the creative process.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
While the miniature display is the highlight, the shop also offers a selection of well-crafted souvenirs. Unlike some mass-produced tourist trinkets, the items here are often noted for their quality and local origin, including ceramics and lamps.
For those looking to take larger items home, shipping options are available, though it's worth noting that the cost can sometimes be higher than the price of the items themselves, especially for international destinations like the US.
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