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Church · Matera, Basilicata
Chiesa rupestre di Santa Maria de Idris
Rock-cut church atop the Monterrone, the rock in the middle of Sasso Caveoso, linked by a corridor to the crypt of San Giovanni in Monterrone, with frescoes dating from the 12th to the 17th centuries.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Chiesa rupestre di Santa Maria de Idris
Santa Maria de Idris sits atop the Monterrone, a large limestone rock in the middle of Sasso Caveoso. From the outside you see only a small masonry façade with an espadana bell gable; the rest of the church is carved into the rock.
The name may come from the Greek Odegitria, ‘she who shows the way’, or from water that sprang from the rock. Inside there are 17th‑century frescoes, such as a Madonna and Child and Sant'Eustachio, the city’s patron.
A narrow corridor leads to the crypt of San Giovanni in Monterrone, the oldest part. There are frescoes from the 12th to the 17th centuries, including a Christ Pantocrator holding a gospel in Greek, a sign of Byzantine influence in Matera.
From the terrace in front of the church the view covers the Sasso Caveoso, San Pietro Caveoso down below and the Gravina ravine.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with side light across Sasso Caveoso.
How to get there
Climb the stairway that starts at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, near Santa Lucia alle Malve; it’s a few minutes but involves steps.
Tip
The church is part of the rock‑church circuit with a combined ticket; check before you go. Photographing the frescoes is not allowed in several of the rock churches; follow the signs.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chiesa rupestre di Santa Maria de Idris
What does Idris mean?
It may derive from the Greek Odegitria, 'she who shows the way', or from the water that sprang from the rock.
What is the oldest?
The frescoes of the crypt of San Giovanni in Monterrone, dating from the 12th century, connected to the church by a corridor.
Is the climb difficult?
There are a few flights of stone steps, short but steep.
Do you need a ticket?
Yes, it is part of the rock-church circuit. Check before you go.