Church of Saint Mary of Idris

Historic Center and Sassi TourIt consists of a walking tour from the main square of the historic centre, Piazza Vittorio Veneto (starting point, arch-shaped fountain reference), with a panoramic view of the Sasso Barisano.Continue through the historic center until you reach Piazza Duomo where it will be possible to view the Cathedral from the outside and then enter the Sasso Caveoso. From here there will be a visit to the furnished house of peasant civilization, a frescoed rock church, a visit to the barbaric cemetery and the various neighborhoods.Everything will be explained by an authorized guide, which will allow you to understand the history of the city.The tour will end in Piazza Giovanni Pascoli in the historic center, close to the Sasso Caveoso.

Starting from Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso, you will explore the Sassi, the ancient districts of the city. Discover Matera's charm, from the most beautiful and breathtaking viewpoints, to the most hidden and fascinating corners. Entering the caves of Matera, you will see how families once lived. You will learn about the ingenious system for the rainwater collection, essential for the survival of the population. Knowing all the secrets of Matera, you will learn how this city went from being the 'shame of Italy' to be a UNESCO site and a jewel of the Italian cultural heritage.

On this tour you will have the opportunity to visit two extraordinary destinations in southern Italy, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Alberobello and Matera. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will discover the history, architecture and traditions of these unique places. Alberobello: The first stop is Alberobello, famous for its characteristic trulli, cone-shaped dwellings made of white stone. As you stroll through the historic districts of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, you will admire the Sovereign Trullo and the Church of St. Anthony. Your guide will tell you about the history and construction techniques of these dwellings, conveying the charm of a traditional way of life. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to participate in a "tasting of typical local products," savoring delicacies such as savory and/or sweet taralli, bitters and/or wines, etc... to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Puglia. After the guided tour, before reaching the checkpoint for departure to Matera, you will have free time to further explore the place on your own, with the opportunity to have lunch, buy souvenirs or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Matera: Next, the tour continues to Matera, famous for its Sassi, ancient dwellings carved into the rock. Exploring the Sassi of Matera, your guide will show you the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, telling you how these caves have been inhabited since prehistoric times. You'll be able to visit some of the rock churches, such as the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, with beautiful Byzantine frescoes. Your guide will also tell you about the transformation of Matera, which has become a renowned tourist destination and European Capital of Culture in 2019. You will visit house-museums to discover how people lived in the Sassi until the 1950s, such as the Neighborhood Cave House (extra £2.50). After the guided tour you will have free time at leisure to experience Matera's charming alleyways on your own, with the opportunity to have lunch, buy souvenirs or simply enjoy the atmosphere before heading back to Bari. Conclusion: This tour will offer you a unique experience between history, culture and gastronomy. Alberobello and Matera are not just tourist destinations, but true testimonies of an extraordinary cultural heritage. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most fascinating corners of Italy!

This consists of a walking tour of the Sassi district, starting from an arch-shaped fountain in the main square of the historic center. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sasso Barisano. We continue through the historical center until we reach Piazza Duomo, where it will be possible to view the exterior of the Cathedral and then move on to the Sasso Caveoso, the city's oldest and most famous district. From here there will be a visit to the furnished house of the peasant civilization, a rupestrian church, and Santa Maria De Idris where you can see some Byzantine frescoes. Make a visit to the barbarian cemetery and various neighborhoods. What will make the visit to the Sassi special will be your expert guide who will tell the story of one of the oldest towns in the world.

On board the ape calessino you will travel through all the narrow streets and alleys of the Sassi of Matera and accompanied by a licensed tour guide you will visit without fatigue one of the most picturesque cities in the world. In particular you will admire the beautiful rock complex Madonna de Idris and San Giovanni Monterrone, which contains frescoes ranging from the 12th to the 17th century. You will visit the cave house of the peasant civilization typically furnished with period furniture and tools to better understand the customs and habits of our ancestors. And finally you will pass through the archaeological zone, the setting for films such as Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ.

Explore the stones in all their essence. Our tour of the two stones is the tour that gives the most complete experience to discover the history, places and customs of the place. You will explore the guerricchio balcony overlooking the Sasso Barisano, Via Beccherire, Piazza Duomo rock church Santa Maria de Armenis, Visit Sasso Caveoso district, Church Santa Maria de Idris, Church San Giovanni in Monterrone, Grotta house, barbaric cemetery, neighborhoods and locations of the films. The tour ends in Piazza Pascoli.

We’ll meet at Tramontano Castle, where I’ll explain the rules of the game and give you a map with riddles linked to the places you’ll need to discover. You’ll have 2 hours to solve them, using both your brain and your legs — but the reward will be worth it! Along the way, you’ll explore hidden corners and discover what I consider to be the true gems of the city. I’ll stay at the starting point to assist you or give you hints, if needed. At the end of the adventure, you’ll return to me to decipher the key and unlock the treasure chest together, while I share some stories and fun facts about the places you’ve visited and we take some pictures together. Everyone will receive a certificate, but only the winner will take home the treasure! It’s the perfect activity to explore Matera in an original way, to give someone a special gift, or simply to enjoy a fun and unique experience! On request, small gifts or notes provided by you can be placed in the chest to make the experience even more personal. YOUR ITINERARY Your journey begins at the historic Tramontano Castle, where you will receive your first instructions. From there, you'll head towards Piazzetta Pascoli, and then lose yourself in the charming alleys of the Sasso Caveoso, passing by the scenic Church of Madonna dell’Idris. But that's just the beginning! As you continue, the route will lead you into the heart of Matera, from the Sasso Barisano to the lively Piazza Vittorio Veneto. There’s no set path — you’ll choose your own direction — but watch the time! During the treasure hunt, you’ll discover some of Matera’s most important attractions: the Cathedral, the Church of San Francesco, the underground ipogei, and the panoramic Church of Sant’Agostino. Through this unique tour, you'll have the chance to explore the city's history and beauty while having fun!

The Walking Guided Tour of the Sassi starts in Piazza Pascoli with a historical and anthropological introduction of the Sassi neighborhoods. The tour continues through the historic center. Along the way, the guide will illustrate Baroque churches such as the Church of Purgatory and the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi. After visiting Piazza Vittorio Veneto - the main square of the historic center - the guide will lead you to explore an extraordinary hypogeum environment and, afterward, typically furnished cave-house with household furniture and work tools used by farmers in the fields. Crossing the Barisano neighborhood you enter the Sasso Caveoso area, dominated by the Monterrone cliff. On the top of the cliff, as indicated by a wrought iron cross, there are two ancient places of worship: the two churches of Madonna dell'Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone completely carved into the rock. The tour continues with the visit to a rock-hewn church.