Sasso Caveoso
Explore Sasso Caveoso, Matera's ancient cave district, a UNESCO site offering a journey through millennia of human history carved into rock.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Sasso Caveoso
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Sasso Caveoso, Matera's ancient cave district, a UNESCO site offering a journey through millennia of human history carved into rock.
"Matera is simply breathtaking! I have never been so moved by a place... Is simply unbelievable."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, carry water as you explore the extensive cave systems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sassi di Matera
Sasso Caveoso & Sasso Barisano
Ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, a UNESCO site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities.

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
Sasso Caveoso
Step back in time in a preserved traditional cave home, showcasing life in Matera centuries ago.

Palombaro Lungo
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
An incredible underground cistern system, a marvel of ancient engineering hidden beneath the city.

Santa Maria de Idris
Sasso Caveoso
A rock-hewn sanctuary offering breathtaking views over the Sasso Caveoso and a glimpse into religious history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Steps!
Book Ahead for Unique Stays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, carry water as you explore the extensive cave systems.
🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)
Wander through the alleys; you'll discover hidden cafes and stunning viewpoints.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture the unique landscape from above, but be mindful of regulations.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, carry water as you explore the extensive cave systems.
🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)
Wander through the alleys; you'll discover hidden cafes and stunning viewpoints.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture the unique landscape from above, but be mindful of regulations.
🏨 Cave Hotel Experience
Book a stay in a cave dwelling for an unforgettable, immersive experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Sasso Caveoso as breathtaking and profoundly moving, with many calling it one of the most incredible places they've ever seen. The unique experience of exploring ancient cave dwellings and the sheer historical depth captivate travelers, though the extensive walking and stairs are a notable challenge.
"be prepared to walk 1525251028 steps, and it seems you always go up and even on return up again if you dont want to take same path, but its totally worth it. i been there on rainy day and still worth it"
Anja Stevanović
"Matera is simply breathtaking! I have never been so moved by a place... Not even Pompei (and yes it is also magnificent and an absolute wonder of history). MATERA is one of the oldest cities in the world and is literally a jewel. The feeling of being there, trying to understand how anyone could have come up with this crazy idea of carving a whole city into stone... Is simply unbelievable."
Alina Sova
"It is very picturesque. There are a plenty of museums and hidden cafes in the narrow streets. Get comfortable shoes."
Monik Razhd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sasso Caveoso is a district within Matera. You can reach Matera by train (from Bari) or bus. Once in Matera, the Sasso Caveoso is best explored on foot. Taxis are available, but walking is the most immersive way to experience the ancient city.
Driving directly into the Sassi districts is restricted. It's best to park your car in designated parking areas outside the historic center and walk or take a local shuttle.
The best way to navigate Sasso Caveoso is by foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the area is hilly with many stairs and uneven paths.
While there are no dedicated public transport routes within the Sassi themselves, local buses operate in the wider Matera area. However, walking is the primary and most rewarding way to explore.
The Sasso Caveoso is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Matera Centrale train station. Taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Sasso Caveoso itself is an open area and generally free to wander. However, specific attractions within the Sassi, like Casa Grotta or museums, require separate tickets.
As an ancient district, Sasso Caveoso is accessible at all times. However, individual cave dwellings, museums, and churches have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon/early evening.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the Sassi. Many local guides offer walking tours that cover both Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.
Wandering through the Sasso Caveoso is free. Costs are associated with visiting specific museums, cave houses (like Casa Grotta), and churches.
For popular attractions like Casa Grotta or guided tours, booking online in advance is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a photo opportunity! Key spots include viewpoints overlooking the ravine, the narrow alleys, rock-hewn churches like Santa Maria de Idris, and the unique cave dwellings themselves.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas due to it being a UNESCO World Heritage site and a populated area. Always check local regulations before flying.
Early mornings offer soft, golden light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide dramatic shadows and beautiful sunset hues. Evenings offer a magical ambiance with the city lights.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful when photographing private residences or inside churches and museums, where flash photography might be prohibited.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and narrow alleys. A versatile zoom lens is also useful. Consider a tripod for low-light evening shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several restaurants within Sasso Caveoso offer authentic Lucanian cuisine. Look for places serving local specialties like 'peperoni cruschi' and 'crapiata'.
Yes, many establishments offer stunning views of the Sassi. Some cave hotels also have restaurants or bars with panoramic vistas.
Don't miss 'crapiata' (a hearty legume soup), 'cialedda materana' (a bread-based dish), and dishes featuring local ingredients like 'peperoni cruschi' (crispy sweet peppers).
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by looking for trattorias or pizzerias slightly off the main tourist paths.
Traditional Lucanian cuisine is often hearty and meat-focused, but many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options, especially pasta dishes and vegetable-based starters.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of snacks and water, and plan for breaks. The Palombaro Lungo offers a cool, underground exploration that can be a hit with younger visitors. Opt for guided tours that are engaging for children, focusing on stories and interactive elements rather than dry historical facts.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the ancient scenery, and look for local bakeries or small trattorias for more affordable meal options away from the main tourist hubs. Many of the most breathtaking views require no entry fee.
💖 Couples & Romantics
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the atmospheric alleys, find a hidden trattoria for a candlelit dinner featuring local cuisine, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. The magical ambiance of Matera makes it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Sassi
Today, the Sasso Caveoso is particularly known for its well-preserved ancient cave structures and its role in historical films, including the James Bond movie 'No Time to Die'. It offers a more raw and authentic glimpse into the past compared to the more developed Sasso Barisano. Exploring its labyrinthine alleys feels like stepping back thousands of years, a truly unbelievable experience that moves many visitors.
The UNESCO World Heritage status granted in 1993 has been crucial in preserving and promoting the Sassi. This recognition highlights the exceptional universal value of Matera's cave dwellings and their unique adaptation to the natural landscape. The ongoing efforts focus on sustainable tourism that respects the historical integrity of the site while allowing visitors to experience its profound history and beauty.
Experiencing Life in a Cave Dwelling
Some of the more luxurious cave suites even offer private jacuzzis with breathtaking views over the Sassi, creating a truly romantic and unforgettable atmosphere. Exploring these spaces gives you a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to appreciate the ingenuity of the people who first carved out these homes. It's a chance to live history, not just observe it.
For those who prefer a glimpse without an overnight stay, visiting a Casa Grotta (cave house museum) is essential. These preserved dwellings, like Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, are furnished as they would have been centuries ago, offering a vivid portrayal of daily life, tools, and living conditions within the Sassi. It’s a powerful way to understand the resilience and resourcefulness of Matera's former inhabitants.
Engineering Marvels: The Palombaro Lungo
Exploring the Palombaro Lungo is like descending into the heart of Matera's history. The network of channels, tunnels, and interconnected chambers showcases the sophisticated water management systems developed by the inhabitants over centuries. It's a testament to their ingenuity and deep understanding of their environment.
Visiting this subterranean wonder provides a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions of ancient urban living. It’s a cool, quiet escape from the sun-drenched streets above and a fascinating insight into the infrastructure that supported life in the Sassi for so long.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit