Tour of the three Crypts in the Murgia Materana with Transfer

If you’re planning a trip to Matera and want to see its hidden gems, this private tour of three crypts in the Murgia Materana offers an intriguing peek into ancient religious sites carved into stone. For around $515.88 per group of up to five people, you’ll enjoy roughly four hours of exploring unique underground spaces, all comfortably transported in a private vehicle. The tour features visits to the Crypt of the Original Sin, Santa Maria della Palomba, and the crypt of St. Michael in Altamura, with entrance tickets included, plus an informative audio guide inside the most famous crypt.

What makes this experience stand out are its carefully curated visits to lesser-known but visually stunning underground churches, paired with the convenience of private transfer. I particularly appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see authentic frescoes—like the Byzantine Deesis and Marian scenes—that are often missed on more generic tours. Plus, the opportunity to blend art, history, and landscape in one seamless experience appeals to travelers interested in cultural depth without the hassle of complex planning.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the lack of a live guide—you’ll be relying on an audio guide inside the Crypt of the Original Sin, which might feel a little detached for some. Also, while the tour is beautifully organized, if weather turns bad, the outdoor parts (like views of Matera and the Murgia plateau) might be less impressive, and the experience could be interrupted or canceled, as noted in some reviews.

• Authentic underground sites: Visit remarkable crypts with frescoes dating from the 9th to 17th centuries, including Byzantine and Marian artwork.
• Private transfer included: Enjoy stress-free travel between locations in a comfortable, private vehicle, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
• Expertly curated stops: From the captivating Crypt of the Original Sin to the frescoed Crypt of St. Michael, each stop offers a unique perspective on Basilicata’s religious art.
• Flexible, easy booking: The tour is private, with a straightforward meeting point and clear timing, suitable for small groups up to five.
• Cost and value: For about $105 per person (assuming a full group of 5), this tour offers a rich cultural experience without the crowds or hassle of large group excursions.
• Reviews praise guides and organization: Several travelers highlight knowledgeable guides like Pasquale and Romina, as well as the overall smooth flow of the day.

When I think about Matera, I think about its famous Sassi, its winding alleyways, and the sense that every stone seems to whisper stories from centuries past. But beyond the Sassi lies a different world—hidden underground churches and crypts that reveal a side of Matera few travelers get to experience. This tour, focusing on three of these crypts, is perfect for those who want to go beyond the usual and step into the quiet depths of history and art.

What to Expect from the Tour

The experience kicks off with a meeting at Martulli Viaggi’s office in Matera, where your personal driver greets you and whisks you away in a comfortable private minivan. This transportation ensures a smooth and relaxed transition between sites, especially since some of the crypts are located outside the city, like the Crypt of the Original Sin.

The first stop, about 10 km outside Matera, is the Crypt of the Original Sin, a cave turned church from the 9th century. Here, you’ll get an audio guide that enriches your understanding of the frescoes by the Painter of Materas Flowers and the church’s historical significance. Highlights include the vivid religious art and the sense of stepping directly into an ancient sacred space carved into stone.

Next, you’ll return to Matera itself for a visit to Santa Maria della Palomba, located right in the city. This site is more than just a church; it’s a spiritual and artistic treasure, with frescoed walls, an icehouse, refectory, and even a cistern—the kind of underground spaces that make you marvel at how communities once thrived in such environments.

Finally, the tour takes you to Masseria Jesce, where the Crypt of St. Michael the Archangel lies. It boasts 14th-century frescoes, including a Byzantine Deesis and Marian scenes painted by Didaco de Simone in the 17th century. As you admire these murals, you’re also standing in a landscape that has inspired countless artists and historians alike.

The Experience’s Strengths

One of the tour’s standout features is the quality of guides and organization. Several reviews mention guides like Pasquale and Romina, who are praised for their knowledge, patience, and ability to share stories in a relatable way. Even without a live guide, the audio guide inside the Crypt of the Original Sin works well, providing rich context and helping you connect the artwork with its historical background.

Another big plus is the access to rarely visited sites. Many travelers only see the Sassi, but these crypts reveal an intimate, often overlooked aspect of Matera’s religious and artistic history. The frescoes, dating across centuries, are stunning for their craftsmanship and preservation, especially the Byzantine Deesis, which offers a glimpse into early Christian iconography.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is generally smooth, be prepared for the fact that there’s no live guide throughout the entire tour, which might make some visitors wish for a bit more narration. The price of about $515.88 for a group of five offers good value, considering the private transportation and access to exclusive sites. But it’s worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan for a meal or snack afterward if you want to extend your day.

Weather can also impact the outdoor views of Matera and the surrounding Murgia plateau, especially if stormy conditions arrive unexpectedly. As one reviewer noted, such cancellations are possible in bad weather and are made for safety reasons, with the offer of rescheduling or refunds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious travelers who want a quiet, contemplative experience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate frescoes and archaeological sites and prefer a private, relaxed pace. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention and more time to ask questions.

However, travelers who prefer a lively guide and a more narrated experience might find the lack of a live guide throughout a bit limiting. Also, those only interested in urban sights may find this tour too focused on underground sites.

This Crypts of the Murgia Materana tour offers a rare, intimate look at some of the most compelling underground religious sites in Basilicata. The combination of private transfer, access to hidden crypts, and artwork of great beauty makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking depth and authenticity. The tour’s organization, along with heartfelt praise for guides like Pasquale, points to a well-executed experience that prioritizes comfort and cultural insight.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys uncovering lesser-known stories, relishing art that’s thousands of years old, and avoiding the crowds, this tour will fit you perfectly. It’s a chance to step off the beaten path and find yourself quietly immersed in history, art, and landscape—an experience you’re unlikely to forget.

For those with an interest in religious frescoes, underground architecture, or simply a wish to explore the hidden side of Matera, this tour provides excellent value and unforgettable sights.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour features private transportation from the meeting point and between all sites, making travel hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, including travel time, site visits, and time to admire the frescoes.

Are tickets to the crypts included?
Yes, all entrance tickets are included in the price, so no extra costs for accessing the crypts.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Italian or have specific needs?
While the tour doesn’t specify a language guide, the inclusion of an audio guide indicates some level of self-guided narration. It’s best to check with the provider for specific language options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended, especially as some sites involve walking through underground and sometimes cool spaces.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but a discount coupon at a local food spot is part of the package.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Bad weather can lead to the cancellation of outdoor parts or the entire tour, with the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.

This tour is an excellent way to uncover the spiritual and artistic depths of Matera beyond its famous Sassi. If you’re eager to see authentic frescoes and explore underground churches with the comfort of private transfer, it’s a highly recommended experience for a small, curious group.