Matera: Sassi Tour and Exclusive Underground Site

Exploring Matera’s famous Sassi districts is a must for anyone interested in Italy’s less-trodden yet incredibly captivating history. This 2-hour guided tour dives into the heart of the city’s ancient rock-built neighborhoods, combining a walk through UNESCO World Heritage sites with an exclusive underground visit. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews from travelers highlight its small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see an underground space dating from the 16th and 17th centuries.

What really sets this experience apart is the visit to a private underground site of 500 m², carved entirely into the rock. Many tours focus on surface-level sights, but this tour offers a rare peek into Matera’s hidden water tanks, wine cellars, and silos—giving you a tangible sense of rural life’s ingenuity. Two standout features I love: first, the striking storytelling by guides like Nicola and Antonio, who are locals with personal insights, and second, the opportunity to explore parts of the city that hardly see travelers—like the water cisterns and cave dwellings used for centuries.

A potential consideration is the tour’s physical nature. It involves walking through uneven, sometimes tight underground spaces, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those pushing large luggage or strollers. Also, weather can affect the experience, as the tour is outdoors and may be adjusted if the weather turns bad. Still, many reviews emphasize that the small group size—limited to 15 people—creates a more personal and engaging atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and connect with the guide.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique underground site: The visit to a private 16th-17th-century carved underground space is a highlight—rarely accessible in other tours.
• Expert local guides: Guides like Nicola and Antonio receive praise for their knowledge and storytelling, enriching the experience.
• Small group setting: Limited to 15 participants, fostering intimacy and personalized attention.
• Cultural depth: Walk through both Sasso districts, see rock churches, cave dwellings, and movie filming locations—each with its own history.
• Authentic insight: The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at Matera’s water systems, rural architecture, and cave life, beyond the postcard images.
• Practicality: The 2-hour duration makes it manageable even for tight schedules, but comfortable shoes and water are recommended.

Exploring the Sassi of Matera: A Deep Dive

Matera’s Sassi are astonishing. Built into the limestone rock, they’ve been inhabited for thousands of years, and the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 highlights their global significance. As I understand it, the tour kicks off at Bar Caffè Tripoli, a local spot providing a relaxed start before heading into the winding streets, passing picturesque piazzas like Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

From there, your guide leads you through the two main districts—Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. These neighborhoods showcase a labyrinth of rock churches, caves, and alleyways. Many of these structures were carved directly out of the rock, serving as homes, churches, and communal spaces. The guides are adept at pointing out the subtle architectural differences and explaining how residents historically adapted the terrain for daily life.

The Hidden Underground Space

The actual highlight comes with the visit to the 500 m² underground site. This fascinating space, dating back centuries, was originally carved into the rock and used as water tanks, wine cellars, and silos—a testament to Matera’s resourcefulness. The space reveals how water was collected and stored, a key aspect of rural life in a city built into a limestone mountain. According to reviews, the Crea Experience site offers a rare, exclusive glimpse into Matera’s subterranean past, not accessible on typical sightseeing tours.

Walking and exploring these caves gives you a real sense of how inhabitants lived, especially in times when surface dwellings lacked modern amenities. The tour’s storytelling about rural production—like wine-making—adds a layer of cultural understanding, making the history more tangible. As one reviewer, Martina, noted, her guide Nicola’s first-hand knowledge made the experience especially memorable.

Walking Through History

The tour also includes a walk through scenic views on the way between sites, with opportunities to observe the city’s unique architecture and dramatic landscape. You’ll likely pass by some of the most interesting sites, including rock churches, which date from various periods, and the caves that served as homes until recent times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and authentic local stories will find this tour particularly rewarding. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions—guides like Nicola and Antonio are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. It’s also ideal for those who want a more exclusive look at Matera, avoiding the large crowds common with bigger bus tours.

Price and Value

At $66.84 per person, this tour offers good value. It includes a local licensed guide, entry to the underground site, and reduced access to some rock churches. Considering the depth of the experience—visiting both surface districts and an exclusive underground space—the cost reflects a high-quality, immersive experience. It’s a clever choice for travelers who want more than just surface sightseeing and are willing to invest a little more for a truly distinctive perspective.

Practical Tips

• Arrive 5 minutes early at the meeting point to meet your guide and other guests.
• Wear comfortable shoes because the terrain is uneven, and the underground spaces may have steps or narrow passages.
• Bring water—there’s no mention of food or drinks included.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or those pushing large luggage, baby strollers, or wheelchairs.
• Check the weather forecast, as the tour can be modified for bad weather.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re a curious traveler who appreciates authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters. It suits those interested in history, rural culture, and architecture who also want a personal connection with a local guide. It’s especially good for people who want to see hidden parts of Matera that aren’t on the usual tourist trail.

The Sum Up

This Sassi tour offers a well-balanced mix of surface sightseeing and exclusive underground discovery, all led by guides praised for their knowledge and warmth. It’s a fantastic way to understand how Matera’s inhabitants lived within these rock walls, and the underground visit adds a layer of uniqueness not found on many other tours. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience that feels intimate and genuine.

If you’re visiting Matera and want to go beyond postcards and typical walking routes, this tour delivers a rich, immersive look into the city’s soul. It’s especially well-suited for history lovers, architecture fans, and curious explorers eager to see the real Matera—not just the photo-perfect highlights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and focused experience.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Bar Caffè Tripoli, about 5 minutes before the start time.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes a licensed local guide, entry to the underground site, and reduced access to some rock churches.

Is the underground site safe and accessible?
The site offers a fascinating view of the underground water system and caves, but it involves walking through uneven, carved-in-rock spaces. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private or small-group bookings are available, offering a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended; avoid high heels, baby strollers, or large bags.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for those able to walk and navigate uneven terrain. Not recommended for very young children or those with mobility challenges.

This tour proves that Matera is not just a scenic backdrop but a living, breathing mosaic of history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic taste of Italy’s hidden gems, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into a city that defies expectations.