Grotte di Matera

Travelers visiting Matera should be aware that "Grotte di Matera" is not a specific, single tourist attraction with its own ticketing or opening hours. Instead, the term generally refers to the cave dwellings that form the core of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1993. The Sassi consist of two districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, which are ancient cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period, with evidence of settlement dating back to 7000 BC.

The houses are dug directly into the calcarenitic rock, known locally as "tufo," and the town grew on the slope of the Gravina ravine. The term "sasso" derives from the Latin saxum. In the 1950s, the Italian government forcibly relocated most of the population due to extreme poverty, but the area has since been restored and revitalized.

Visitors can explore these cave dwellings as part of the historic center. Many have been converted into hotels, restaurants, and museums. While specific admission fees do not apply to walking through the streets, entry to specific museums or private cave hotels may require tickets. It is advisable to check individual venue websites for current pricing. Exploring the Sassi offers a profound insight into the unique troglodyte architecture and history of Basilicata. For travelers, it serves as an essential stop to appreciate this exceptional example of human adaptation to the landscape. The combination of historical depth and architectural uniqueness makes it a memorable destination. It complements visits to other landmarks in Matera, such as the Rupestrian Churches, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s identity.