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Historic neighborhood · Matera, Basilicata
Sasso Barisano
The Sasso facing north, toward Bari, with houses that have elaborately worked facades, carved portals and the rock church of San Pietro Barisano, the largest in the city.
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 Sasso Barisano
Sasso Barisano lies north of the Civita, along the old road that led out of Matera toward Bari, from which its name comes. The caves here are generally hidden behind masonry facades, with portals, friezes and small hanging gardens.
After the depopulation of the 1950s and the recovery of the Sassi, many cave-houses became hotels, restaurants and studios, and Barisano is the busiest part of the Sassi at night.
The main sight is the rock church of San Pietro Barisano, the largest in Matera. The first nucleus, from the 12th and 13th centuries, was enlarged in the 15th and 16th centuries and in the 18th century acquired the three naves and the 1755 façade. Under the floor are the rooms where priests’ bodies were left in niches carved in the tuff until decomposition.
From Piazza Vittorio Veneto a viewpoint gives the first view of Barisano, with the cathedral high on the Civita. Streets like Via Fiorentini descend through the quarter down toward 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 1h30 to 2 hours, including the visit to San Pietro Barisano.
Best time
In the morning for soft light photography. At night, the illuminated quarter is the liveliest of the Sassi.
How to get there
Descend from Piazza Vittorio Veneto via the steps that start at the viewpoint above the quarter; it’s a few minutes on foot.
Tip
San Pietro Barisano is part of the rock-church circuit run by the cooperative that manages the visits; check times before you go. Combine it with the viewpoint at Piazza Vittorio Veneto just above.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sasso Barisano
Why is it called Barisano?
Because it lies along the old road that left Matera in the direction of Bari.
What is San Pietro Barisano?
The largest rock-cut church in Matera, carved into the rock, with frescoes and funerary spaces beneath the nave.
Is it the best neighborhood to stay in?
It has the most hotels in cave houses and more nightlife, but there are stairs to reach many accommodations.
Can you see the neighborhood from above?
Yes, from the viewpoint at Piazza Vittorio Veneto.