Matera: Lombard Cemetery & Cave Dwellings Tour

Join us for a captivating tour exploring three iconic landmarks of Matera in a single day—the Lombard Cemetery, the Church of Santa Maria d'Idris, and a Cave House. Traverse the historical center of Matera, immersing yourself in the charm of cave constructions.

Matera Guided Tour: Lombard Cemetery & Cave Constructions

Gather at the designated time in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, situated in the heart of Matera's historic center. First, we'll embark on a guided stroll through the old town, unveiling the stories behind three significant monuments.

During this Matera guided tour, the Church of Santa Maria d'Idris will be our first stop—an intricately carved cave temple nestled into the cliffs. You'll learn intriguing facts, including how its name is linked to the ancient water flow through these mountains.

We'll explore the history of the temple, featuring a seventeenth-century religious painting and the figure of San Eustaquio, Matera's patron saint. Notably, a tunnel connects the church to the cave crypt of San Giovanni di Monterrone, adorned with captivating frescoes.

Adjacent is Matera's Lombard Cemetery, situated on the grounds of an ancient monastic complex. We'll delve into the reflections of Carlo Levi, a doctor, painter, and intellectual who found profound contemplation within this cemetery.

Concluding our tour, we'll step inside a cave house to gain deeper insights into Matera's ancient way of life when these unique cave constructions flourished. It promises to be a fascinating experience!

Finally, we'll bid farewell after the 2-hour exploration at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli.