Tour tra i Templi dell’Olio e gli Olivi Patriarchi

A Taste of Matera’s Olive Heritage and Local Traditions

This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the olive-growing roots of Matera’s countryside, blending history, gastronomy, and music into a three-hour journey. I haven’t been on it myself, but the details paint a vivid picture: walking among ancient olive trees, tasting homemade Matera bread, and preparing a traditional dish, all guided by someone who clearly loves sharing their local culture.

Two things stand out immediately. First, the tour’s focus on authentic, hands-on experiences—from reliving daily life in ancient cave houses to making “la cialledda,” a hearty dish steeped in local tradition. Second, I appreciate how it combines sensory pleasures, like tasting extra virgin olive oil directly from the trees and sipping Primitivo wine while being serenaded with traditional songs, creating a genuinely immersive setting.

One potential consideration is that the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking through the countryside and inside caves. Also, at around $49 per person, you’re paying for a rich cultural experience that’s about more than just sightseeing—it’s about connecting with local life, which might be a good value if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Matera.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic rural immersion: Walk among ancient olive trees and become part of an age-old tradition.
• Hands-on culinary experience: Make “la cialledda” and taste Matera bread baked in a traditional oven.
• Local flavors and products: Enjoy Primitivo wine and a selection of Slow Food Presidium products like Pezzente salami and oven-baked olives.
• Historical insight: Visit the caves of an ancient farmhouse, reliving daily life from centuries ago.
• Cultural immersion: Experience traditional music and songs from Matera, adding a melodic touch to your visit.
• Exclusive access: Tour private areas and enjoy views of the Canyon of the Gravina di Matera away from crowds.

Exploring the Heart of Matera’s Countryside

The tour begins at the f.torraca school, a modest but practical meeting point that sets the tone for a relaxed, engaging experience. From there, you’ll be guided into the countryside of the Matera Murgia, an area famed for its unique landscape and ancient olive groves. Walking among these centuries-old olive trees is a quiet reminder of how integral olive cultivation has been to the region’s identity. As one review praises Francesco, the guide, calling him “a very friendly and open person,” you’ll quickly feel welcomed and eager to learn.

The highlight here is the connection between nature and tradition. You’ll walk along paths that have seen generations of harvesters, touching trunks that have stood for hundreds of years. The guide will probably share stories about the trees’ history, making it clear that these aren’t just old plants—they’re witnesses to history.

Inside the Cave: Living History

Next, you’ll step into the caves of an ancient farmhouse, which serve as a tangible link to the past. These caves, preserved and accessible, offer a peek into how people once lived, worked, and farmed. The limited space and historical significance of these sites make them especially meaningful, allowing you to imagine daily life in a simpler, more grounded time.

Tasting and Cooking: Savoring Matera’s Flavors

No experience of Italian countryside is complete without food, and this tour delivers on that front big time. Under the shade of old olive trees, you’ll enjoy Matera bread baked in a traditional wood-fired oven—crusty, fragrant, and warm, seasoned with extra virgin olive oil pressed from the very trees you just admired. The act of tasting this bread, seasoned with local oil, is a simple yet powerful way to connect with the land.

Then, you’ll step into a workshop setting where you’ll prepare “la cialledda,” a dish that embodies Matera’s humble, hearty cuisine. Made from stale bread, fresh vegetables, and herbs, it’s a dish born of necessity but elevated through tradition. Sharing this meal at the end, just as harvesters still do during their breaks, creates a genuine sense of community.

Wines and Slow Food Products

The tour includes a tasting of Primitivo wine, a local favorite with a rich flavor. Alongside the wine, you’ll receive a bundle of Slow Food Presidium products, such as Caciocavallo Podolico, oven-baked olives from Ferrandina, and Pezzente salami from Montagna Materana. These products highlight the region’s dedication to preserving traditional, high-quality foods.

Melodic Traditions

Throughout, you’ll be treated to traditional music and songs from Matera, performed with local instruments. These sounds add a lively, authentic dimension to the experience, reinforcing the cultural depth of the region.

The Logistics: What You Need to Know

The experience lasts about three hours, making it accessible even for travelers with tight schedules. It’s priced at $48.97 per person, which is quite reasonable given the range of experiences packed in—walking, tasting, cooking, and culture. The tour is led by an English and Italian-speaking guide, with Francesco being particularly praised for his friendly, humorous approach.

The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites. It’s ideal for curious travelers who love engaging with local culture and aren’t afraid of a bit of physical activity.

Booking and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change. You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility while planning your trip.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic cultural encounters and are eager to understand local traditions beyond the usual sightseeing. Foodies will appreciate the chance to taste and even prepare traditional dishes, while history enthusiasts will enjoy the visit to ancient caves. It’s also a great choice if you want a small-group experience that feels more like a local gathering than a tourist trap.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, loves good food, and isn’t shy about walking outdoors, this tour will suit you well. However, those with mobility restrictions should consider other options, as walking and uneven terrain are involved.

A Close Look at the Experience

The journey into Matera’s countryside reveals the profound link between land and tradition. Walking among centuries-old olive trees isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a living narrative. These trees have borne witness to generations of harvests, and touching their gnarled trunks offers a visceral connection to the land’s history.

The inside caves serve as a stark reminder of humble rural life, making the experience intimate and educational. It’s rare to get such a clear glimpse into the daily routines of past inhabitants, especially in a preserved setting that feels both genuine and heartfelt.

Food plays a starring role here. The Matera bread baked in wood-fired ovens is crusty and fragrant, and tasting it with local olive oil elevates simple ingredients into something memorable. The act of making “la cialledda”—a traditional bread and vegetable salad—connects you directly with the region’s resourcefulness and culinary roots.

Chances are you’ll find the wine and Slow Food products a highlight, especially if you’re interested in regional specialties that aren’t mass-produced. The caciocavallo, olives, and salami are all crafted with care, supporting local artisans and preserving traditions.

The Cultural Touch

Adding music and songs from Matera’s traditional repertoire makes for a genuine, lively atmosphere. It’s not just about sights and tastes but also about feeling part of the local culture—an emotional connection that lingers long after the tour ends.

How the Tour Feels

What I find especially appealing is how this experience balances education with enjoyment. It’s not overly commercialized or staged—rather, it’s designed to foster authentic interactions with local people and their land. The guide’s friendly demeanor, especially Francesco’s humorous approach, helps break down barriers and makes the whole experience fun and approachable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers more than just a walk through scenic countryside. It’s an invitation to step into Matera’s rural soul, to taste its flavors, hear its songs, and touch its history. It’s an insightful, engaging way to understand how land, food, and culture intertwine here.

If you value experiential travel—learning through doing and tasting—this will be a memorable part of your visit to Matera. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy authentic, small-group outings that include a mix of history, food, and music.

For travelers who want to go beyond the surface and connect deeply with local traditions, this tour is undoubtedly a worthwhile choice. Just remember, it involves walking and some uneven terrain, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours long, offering a manageable but immersive experience of Matera’s countryside and traditions.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is there a specific meeting point?
Yes, the tour begins at the f.torraca school and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the experiential and gastronomic tour, tasting of typical dishes, visits to private areas, and a view of the Canyon of the Gravina di Matera.

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

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the countryside and caves.

What kind of food will I prepare or taste?
Expect Matera bread baked in a wood-fired oven, la cialledda (a bread and vegetable salad), and local Slow Food products like salami, olives, and cheese.

Is this experience good value?
Considering the range of activities—walking, tasting, cooking, culture—most travelers find the $48.97 price reasonable for such a memorable and authentic experience.

This tour offers a heartfelt slice of Matera’s land, flavors, and traditions. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the region beyond the usual sights, seeing local life and history. If you’re curious, eager to taste and touch the land’s stories, and enjoy small-group journeys, this experience is well worth considering.