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Historic neighborhood · Matera, Basilicata
Sasso Caveoso
The oldest and most rustic of the two Sassi, with houses carved in steps like an amphitheater, the church of San Pietro Caveoso and, above, the rock churches of the Monterrone overlooking the Gravina ravine.
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 Caveoso
Sasso Caveoso lies south of the Civita and faces Montescaglioso. The houses are arranged in steps, like the cavea of a theater, which explains the name. It is the neighborhood where Matera's rock‑cut origins are most evident: many masonry facades hide caves carved into the limestone.
The Sassi have been inhabited continuously since prehistoric times. In the mid‑20th century, overcrowding and a lack of water and sewage made the neighborhoods a social problem: a 1952 law relocated residents to new districts. After decades of vacancy, the Sassi were restored and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
In the square by the ravine stands the church of San Pietro Caveoso, from 1218, with a 17th‑century Baroque façade and bell tower. Above it rises the Monterrone, a rock with the rock churches of Santa Maria de Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone. Just ahead is Santa Lucia alle Malve, and on a nearby side street is the Casa Grotta of Vico Solitario.
From Sasso Caveoso you get a close view of the Gravina, the ravine that separates the town from the Murgia. Across the way are the caves of the Parco della Murgia Materana.
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 2 to 3 hours to tour the neighborhood and visit two or three rock churches.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the low light brings out the stone. In summer, from June to August, avoid the hottest hours around midday.
How to get there
From Piazza Vittorio Veneto, walk down Via Ridola and follow the signs to Sasso Caveoso; it’s about a 10-minute walk. City minibuses reach close to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso.
Tip
The rock-cut churches of Sasso Caveoso are run by a cooperative and use a combined ticket; check before you go. Wear shoes with firm soles: the stone steps can become slippery.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sasso Caveoso
What's the difference between the Sasso Caveoso and the Barisano?
The Caveoso is more rustic, with stepped houses and more exposed caves. The Barisano has more worked facades, carved portals and today hosts many hotels and restaurants.
Why were the Sassi abandoned?
A 1952 law moved residents to new neighborhoods because of overcrowding and lack of sanitation.
Can you enter the cave-houses?
Yes. The Casa Grotta de Vico Solitario shows a house furnished as it was before the depopulation, and several caves house museums and shops.
How much time should you allow?
2 to 3 hours, including entries to rock churches.