Matera Underground: Into the rocks Music and Wine Experience

Introducing Matera Underground: Into the rocks Music and Wine Experience

Imagine descending into a centuries-old underground space carved into the rocks of Matera, where sounds and flavors come together in a way that feels both intimate and extraordinary. This experience offers a musical journey paired with an expertly curated wine tasting, all within a cavernous setting that’s steeped in history and atmosphere. It’s not your typical wine tasting — here, the environment amplifies the sensory experience, making each note and sip resonate.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines education with entertainment. The knowledgeable guides, like the friendly sommelier, help you understand how music can change the way we perceive wine. Plus, the setting in a hypogeum—a space originally used for water collection and storage—adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue that’s hard to find elsewhere. The fact that the experience lasts just an hour and a half keeps it manageable without feeling rushed, and the ability to learn how to make a wine-music combo makes it both fun and practical.

One thing to consider is that this experience takes place underground, so it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or anyone uncomfortable in enclosed, dark spaces. Also, it’s a bit of an investment at $168.79 per person, but when you factor in the immersive environment, expert guidance, and the quality of wines and music, it’s a memorable value for those looking to add a distinctive touch to their Matera trip.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique underground setting lends an authentic and atmospheric backdrop for the experience.
• Expert guidance from a sommelier and musicians enhances understanding and enjoyment.
• Music and wine pairing techniques are explained, offering a new way to appreciate both.
• Music selections feature works by professional composers, adding a lush, multisensory layer.
• Limited accessibility — the underground site isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments.
• Perfect for curious travelers who enjoy learning about wine, music, and history in a special environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Depths of Matera Underground

Starting just a short walk from the main square, Vittorio Veneto, this tour begins in a small, welcoming meeting spot where your guide—likely someone from CREA Experience—sets the tone. You’re then led into a 500-square-meter hypogeum, a cavern carved into the rock dating back to between 1500 and 1700. Walking through what once was a water cistern or cellar, you begin to realize how deeply Matera’s history is woven into the space.

The space’s features are as fascinating as the experience itself. You’ll see ancient water collection systems, cisterns, and rock-hewn chambers that once served as homes or storage areas. This environment, with its natural acoustics and textured walls, creates a natural amphitheater for the music performance, making every note feel alive and vibrant.

The Musical Journey in a Hypogeum

As the lights dim slightly, the musical part of the experience kicks off. You’ll hear performances of works by professional composers, performed by talented musicians who seem to blend seamlessly into the space. The music isn’t just background noise; it’s woven into the atmosphere, with melodies that evoke feelings of serenity and wonder.

One reviewer noted, “The music was so lush and textured, I could feel it vibrating through the stone walls.” The acoustics of the underground chamber amplify sound in a way that’s impossible in a regular concert hall, giving each note a sense of depth and resonance. The guided insights from the performers and the sommelier help you understand how different styles of music can influence your perception of wine, making the tasting more engaging and memorable.

The Art of Wine and Music Pairing

Here’s where the experience gets especially interesting. Your guide explains how music can alter the tasting profiles of wine—sometimes making a wine seem brighter or softer depending on the melody playing. It’s a playful and insightful way to experience wine beyond just tasting; it involves listening, feeling, and understanding.

You’ll sample a selection of wines, each chosen to complement or contrast with the musical pieces. The sommelier shares personal insights into the wines, pointing out characteristics such as sparkling textures or lush fruitiness that echo the melodies. Several guests remarked, “The pairing was surprisingly effective, and I learned to appreciate wine in a whole new way.”

Practical Aspects: Duration, Cost, and Logistics

At 1.5 hours, this experience strikes a balance—long enough to immerse yourself without feeling dragged out. The price, at $168.79 per person, includes both the wine tasting and the musical performance, guided by knowledgeable professionals. While it may sound steep compared to traditional tastings, the value lies in the setting and the multisensory approach.

The meeting point is conveniently located near Matera’s main square, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Since transportation isn’t included, plan to walk or arrange your own transport to the site. Be prepared for the underground environment: comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended since it can be cool and uneven underfoot.

Note that food and drinks are not allowed inside the hypogeum, so enjoy your pre- or post-tour meals in nearby cafes. Also, this activity isn’t suitable for visitors with mobility issues due to the underground setting.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who have a curiosity for hidden places, local culture, and multisensory experiences. If you enjoy wine and music but want to see how they can interact in a tangible way—this is a memorable choice. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate authentic, intimate settings rather than big, commercial venues.

The experience is intimate and interactive, making it best suited for small groups or couples. If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational, and sensory-rich activity that’s different from most wine tastings—this will fit the bill.

Price and Value Considerations

While $168.79 is a significant spend for a 1.5-hour activity, the quality of the setting, guides, and experiences justifies the cost for many. If you’re someone who values authentic environments and multisensory learning, you’ll find this experience worthwhile. It’s not just about tasting wine; it’s about experiencing wine as a form of art, amplified by history, acoustics, and storytelling.

Everyone in the reviews praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning acoustics—these are the core strengths. The limited accessibility, however, is a consideration for some travelers, and this activity isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

Matera Underground’s Music and Wine Experience is a beautifully crafted, unique activity that brings together history, sensory pleasure, and cultural storytelling. It’s an excellent choice if you’re eager to explore a different side of Matera—away from crowded streets and typical tours—and want to connect more deeply with the city’s soul through its underground spaces.

The guide’s insights, paired with the evocative sounds and well-selected wines, make this experience stand out. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authenticity and multisensory adventures, and are prepared for an underground journey into both history and harmony.

If you’re willing to invest a little time and money, this tour offers a memorable peek into Matera’s secret depths—both geological and cultural—that will stay with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Is transportation to the site included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to walk or arrange your own transport to the meeting point, which is near the main square in Matera.

How long does the activity last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a compact, yet immersive activity.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the underground setting isn’t accessible for those with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended because the space is underground and can be cool.

Are food and drinks allowed inside?
No, food and drinks are not permitted inside the hypogeum to preserve the environment.

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

To sum it up, the Matera Underground: Into the rocks Music and Wine Experience offers a distinctive way to enjoy the city’s historic underground spaces while engaging your senses with carefully curated wines and music. This tour suits curious travelers seeking a deeper, more authentic connection to Matera’s subterranean heritage—an experience that combines history, art, and taste in one unforgettable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby