Civita and Barisano Path
Walking RouteThis route navigates the northern ancient district and the central rocky spur that divides the city. The architecture here exhibits more intricate carved portals and built facades that conceal the caves behind them. The walk involves navigating steep staircases that connect the wealthy upper plateau with the densely packed lower neighbourhoods. It is an exploration of architectural evolution, showcasing the transition from primitive caves to elegant Renaissance styling. The atmosphere is slightly more developed and bustling with artisanal shops and cafes.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
This walk highlights the incredible architectural diversity of the city, showing how inhabitants upgraded their cave dwellings into respectable urban homes. It provides a fascinating contrast to the more primitive southern district.
WALKER'S FIELD NOTES
- • Many artisan shops along this route close for a long afternoon break, so a morning stroll ensures they are open.
- • The early morning light hitting the facades in this district creates fantastic, highly textured photographic opportunities.
- • The stairs leading down from the Cathedral to Via Fiorentini are a maze; allow yourself to get slightly lost to discover hidden courtyards.
- 1ATTRACTION
Cathedral Square
PIAZZA DUOMOSituated on the highest point of the rocky spur, this elegant plaza offers commanding, dual views over both valleys. It represents the historical seat of religious and aristocratic power in the city.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1230, making it 796 years old
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Architectural Styles
- Romanesque Art In Apulia
to next stop - 2PHOTO SPOT
Via Fiorentini
A bustling, highly picturesque street that cuts through the heart of the northern district. It is lined with beautifully restored facades, charming boutique hotels, and inviting local craft shops.
to next stop - 3PHOTO SPOT
Church of San Pietro Barisano
CHIESA DI SAN PIETRO BARISANOThe largest rupestrian church in the city, featuring a traditional masonry facade that hides an expansive, entirely excavated interior. It perfectly demonstrates the blending of built and carved architectural styles.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 4ARCHITECTURE
Convent of Saint Augustine
CONVENTO DI SANT'AGOSTINOAn impressive sixteenth century monastic complex perched on a rocky cliff edge. The plaza in front of the church offers one of the most spectacular, unobstructed views across the deep gorge.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Architectural Styles
- Baroque
Other Walking Routes
Check out other routes in Matera
Sasso Caveoso Circuit
This captivating walk takes you deep into the southern district of the ancient city, known for its amphitheatre like shape. The architecture here features more predominantly excavated caves rather than built structures, giving it a highly primitive and authentic feel. Strollers will wander down gently sloping paths, passing by historic cave dwellings and dramatic rock formations. The views looking upward towards the cathedral spire are consistently stunning. It is a slow, immersive journey into the very heart of the subterranean lifestyle.
view route
Piano Evening Promenade
This relaxing stroll takes place on the flat, upper plateau of the city, known locally as 'Il Piano'. It features elegant Baroque architecture, wide paved streets, and grand municipal buildings. It is the absolute centre of the city's social life, particularly during the traditional evening passeggiata. The route links several impressive plazas, each offering dramatic balconies that look down into the dark, twinkling valleys below. It is an effortless, elegant walk filled with the sounds of clinking glasses and lively conversation.
view route
Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Murgia Materana Plateau Trail
This awe inspiring ride takes you straight into the heart of the rocky, rugged landscape that faces the ancient city. Cyclists will navigate across the vast limestone plateau, surrounded by low shrubs and wild herbs. The defining feature of this route is the continuous, breathtaking views of the cave districts cascading down the opposite side of the ravine. The terrain can be rocky and requires some effort, but the cinematic vistas are unparalleled. It feels like riding through an ancient, biblical film set.
Subterranean Wonders Route
This fascinating journey uncovers the hidden depths of the city, focusing on what lies beneath the cobblestone streets. It explores the incredible engineering and primitive living conditions that defined the subterranean lifestyle. Visitors will discover vast water cisterns, historically accurate cave homes, and mysterious crypts. The tour highlights the ingenuity of ancient inhabitants who mastered survival in a harsh, rocky environment. It is a highly educational exploration of the literal foundations of the settlement.