Matera Private Tours

Explore Matera’s Primal Beauty with a Local Guide

For those who wander through the Sassi of Matera and find themselves captivated by the rugged landscape just beyond the Matera canyon, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore it. The Parco della Murgia Materana, an area of striking natural beauty and historical significance, is just a 10-minute drive from the city. This tour invites you to enjoy a peaceful and scenic walk along the canyon, offering breathtaking views of Matera from the opposite side, while uncovering some of the area’s most intriguing secrets.

Tour Highlights:

• Starting Point at Jazzo Gattini: We’ll begin our adventure by meeting at the parking area near the Jazzo Gattini Visitor Center. Here, you’ll leave your car, and we’ll embark on a short walk to Masseria Radogna, where I’ll retrieve the keys needed to access the rock churches we’ll visit.
• A Scenic Walk Along the Canyon: As we start our walk, I’ll share some insights about the natural landscape, including occasional information on the local flora. The focus is on enjoying the leisurely pace and taking in the surroundings. As we continue, we’ll walk along the edge of the canyon, stopping at various viewpoints to appreciate the stunning panoramas and capture memorable photos.
• Exploring the Rock Churches: During our walk, we’ll visit two fascinating rock churches: San Falcione and Madonna delle Tre Porte. These ancient chapels, carved into the rock, still preserve traces of frescoes and the history of their sacred past. I’ll provide access so we can step inside and explore these unique spaces, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of ancient Matera.
• Return to Jazzo Gattini: After visiting the churches, we’ll make our way back to the parking area with a relaxed 20-minute walk along the road, bringing our circular route to a close.

Important Notes:

• The area is completely exposed to the elements, with no shelter available. I strongly advise against taking this tour during the hottest hours of summer, as there is no shade along the path.
• The management of the park can be somewhat inconsistent, and occasionally, the rules for visiting the rock churches may change without notice. I’ll do my best to ensure a smooth experience, but please be aware that unforeseen changes may occur.

This tour is ideal for those who want to escape the bustle of the city and connect with Matera’s natural and historical heritage in a serene and relaxed setting.