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Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera, Matera

4.6
#6 of 40 in Historic Sites in Matera
World heritage site · Historic Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot
Explore the cave dwellings and stone-carved churches of Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera. Hike from Matera up to the sassi cave-dwellings, and farther up to the rupestrian churches for wonderful views of the area. Inside the caves, appreciate the frescoes and the restoration work inside the linked churches, once used to store wine and now maintained by the government. Wander the steps, passageways, and streets among the sassi caves, where people lived for thousands of years until government policies moved them out a mere 40 years ago. Arrange to visit Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera and other attractions in Matera using our Matera tour planner.
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Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
410 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • By Gabriel H
    Just a mile or so outside of Matera, the visitor will find a number of caves that used to function as churches (and some still do!). Like the old homes in Matera, these churches were carved out of...  more »
  • By alistairbudd
    well worth the short drive from Matera , amazing view of the city and a good place for a short walk around some cave houses . Longer walks are avalaible . But we did a 1 hour stover and it was really....  more »
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Google
  • By James Tuchel
    Nice park for a walk. The caves themselves are a bit grimy! Recommend getting to the church caves
  • By Lee Hampton
    Visit a place where time forgot! Matera is a truly stunning town. You could easily spend two or three days here just walking the streets and National Park. The transition from the old town into the park is amazing and the views are simply breathtaking. Traversing the suspension bridge into the park leaves you feeling like your walking next to dinosaurs. Climbing the steep walk to the opposite side is well worth it but take plenty of water and some really good walking shoes/boots. Trainers aren’t really going to do the job. You are surrounded in history and magical culture with loads of beautiful places to eat and drink.
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