Adventure in , Matera!

Murgia National Park (Parco della Murgia Materana)

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Murgia National Park (Parco della Murgia Materana)

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction

Fly into Bari, and take a local train to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its ancient cave dwellings, the "Sassi". Check into a cave hotel for a unique overnight experience. Spend the afternoon exploring Matera’s labyrinthine alleyways, steep staircases, and enchanting architecture. Dine at a local trattoria enjoying Matera bread and cruschi peppers.

Day 2: Hiking the Park

Start early and head to the Murgia National Park Visitor Center in Matera to pick up a hiking map. Take the Belvedere trail, a moderate 4-hour hike that offers panoramic views of the Sassi di Matera across the canyon. This trail is dotted with rupestrian churches and prehistoric caves which provide a peek into the area"s ancient human settlements. Key stops include the Madonna delle Tre Porte and San Falcione.

Day 3: Rock Climbing and Wildlife Spotting

Gear up for a day of rock climbing; the park offers various routes ranging from beginner to advanced. Climb the limestone cliffs for an adrenaline rush and a bird"s eye view of the park"s rugged terrain. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like the lesser kestrel and the European roller. Local guides are available for hire for those new to climbing, ensuring a safe and instructive adventure.

Day 4: Cycling Through History

Rent a mountain bike in Matera and take a guided tour through the less-traveled paths of the park. Cycle past ancient masserie (farmhouses), through aromatic herb fields, and olive groves. The route often includes a visit to the Crypt of Original Sin, a cave church with remarkable 9th-century frescoes.

Departure

Return to Matera, and take a train back to Bari for your onward journey, enriched with the spirit of adventure and tales of ancient civilizations from Murgia National Park.

Useful Tips

- Best visit time: Spring and Autumn for mild weather.

- Essential: Wear sturdy shoes and carry water, especially for hiking and cycling.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Sassi di Matera

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits in Sassi di Matera: A Journey Through Time and Terrain

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Sasso Barisano

Begin your adventure in Matera by checking into a cave hotel, offering a unique blend of ancient dwellings and modern comfort. After settling in, take a leisurely hike to the Sasso Barisano, the larger and more accessible part of the Sassi. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys and discover ancient cave dwellings, some of which have been transformed into cozy cafés and artisan workshops. Don’t miss visiting Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a furnished cave house museum that offers a glimpse into past life in Matera.

Day 2: Trekking the Murgia Materana Park

Gear up for a day of trekking in the Murgia Materana Park. Start early and head to the Belvedere on Via Madonna delle Virtù for a panoramic view of the Sassi. Cross the suspension bridge over the Gravina River and explore cave churches and prehistoric sites scattered throughout the park. The trail offers breathtaking views back towards the city, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Day 3: Rock Climbing and Via Ferrata

For the thrill-seekers, engage in rock climbing activities arranged by local adventure groups in the rugged terrain surrounding Matera. Alternatively, the Via Ferrata del Belvedere in nearby Castelmezzano provides an exhilarating mix of trekking and fixed-rope climbing, all while offering stunning vistas of the Dolomiti Lucane.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion and Departure

Before your departure, delve deeper into the culture of Matera with a visit to the Musma, a museum dedicated to sculpture housed in historic cave dwellings. Enjoy a final meal at a local trattoria, savoring rustic Basilicata cuisine that captures the essence of this timeless city.

Getting There

Matera is accessible via Bari, the nearest major airport. Regular buses and trains run from Bari to Matera, taking about 1.5 hours. Once in the city, most attractions in Sassi are best explored on foot.

Embark on this adventure in Sassi di Matera, where every stone tells a story, and every path leads to a discovery.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Madonna delle Virtù Church (Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù)

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Exploring Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù and the Sassi di Matera

Day 1: Arrival in Matera

Kick off your adventure in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning historical architecture. Settle into a cave hotel, embracing the unique opportunity to sleep in a room carved out of rock, offering a first-hand experience of historical Matera living.

Day 2: Discover Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù

Start your morning with a brisk hike through the rugged landscapes of the Murgia Materana Park. Follow the marked trails leading to the Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù, a remarkable rock church nestled deep within the Matera ravine. This 11th-century sanctuary is an extraordinary example of religious architecture carved directly into the limestone, representing centuries of spiritual and community life.

Upon arrival, immerate yourself in the serene ambiance and examine the frescoes that adorn the walls, illustrating stories from the past. The church"s simple, yet profound structure combined with its historical significance provides a contemplative retreat from the modern world.

Getting There

The most atmospheric approach to the church is by foot from Matera’s historical center, which takes about 30 minutes. Head towards the Sasso Caveoso district and follow the signs down into the ravine. The path can be steep and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes.

Day 3: Explore Sassi di Matera

Dedicate your day to exploring the Sassi di Matera, a complex of cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period. Join a guided tour to delve deeper into the history and get a glimpse of how these cave houses are being preserved. Don"t miss climbing up to the Civita, the oldest part of the town, for breathtaking views over the Sassi.

Departure

Reflect on the timeless beauty and the layers of history experienced in Matera as you prepare for your onward journey, carrying with you the spirit of adventure and historical insight.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.