Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio
Explore Matera's ancient Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site of cave dwellings, offering breathtaking views and a journey through millennia of history...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Matera's ancient Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site of cave dwellings, offering breathtaking views and a journey through millennia of history.
"The absolute best view point of Matera - whole Matera is in front of you. Be sure to come both, day and night."
👟 Comfortable Shoes are a Must
The Sassi are full of stairs and uneven paths. Prioritize comfort for exploring Matera's unique terrain.
📸 Capture Day & Night Views
The Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio offers a completely different, magical experience after dark.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio (Three Arches)
Matera, Basilicata, Italy
The iconic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Sassi di Matera, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Sassi di Matera
Matera, Basilicata, Italy
Ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, a UNESCO site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Palombaro Lungo
Underground, Matera
An ancient, vast underground cistern system that collected rainwater, offering a unique glimpse into Matera's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Embrace the Sassi's Unique Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes are a Must
The Sassi are full of stairs and uneven paths. Prioritize comfort for exploring Matera's unique terrain.
📸 Capture Day & Night Views
The Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio offers a completely different, magical experience after dark.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Accessing Palombaro Lungo is budget-friendly, costing around €3, making it a worthwhile underground adventure.
🎶 Evening Ambiance
Sometimes local musicians play at the Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio in the evenings, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes are a Must
The Sassi are full of stairs and uneven paths. Prioritize comfort for exploring Matera's unique terrain.
📸 Capture Day & Night Views
The Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio offers a completely different, magical experience after dark.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Accessing Palombaro Lungo is budget-friendly, costing around €3, making it a worthwhile underground adventure.
🎶 Evening Ambiance
Sometimes local musicians play at the Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio in the evenings, adding to the magical atmosphere.
🗺️ Use Google Codes for Navigation
Specific Google codes can help pinpoint viewpoints like Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio and others.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matera, particularly its Sassi districts, is overwhelmingly praised for its unique historical significance and breathtaking beauty, often described as magical and unlike anywhere else. Visitors rave about the stunning viewpoints, especially Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio, and the immersive experience of staying in ancient cave dwellings. Some find the extensive walking and stairs challenging, and occasional crowds can detract from the tranquility.
"I will let the pictures decide for you if it is worth visiting.
I had my booking in the middle of city and it was the most memorable experience.
In the morning you could hear the birds singing and enjoy the city’s lights.
During the day I was exploring the streets of the movie sets of James Bond: no time to die.
Truly amazing city, one of my favorite from Italy and in my top 3 from Europe.
Enjoy traveling"
Gabriela
"The absolute best view point of Matera - whole Matera is in front of you. Be sure to come both, day and night. Really amazing."
Dejan Braki
"Magical little town of Matera, in southern Italy’s Basilicata region, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993; UNESCO described it as the “most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region.”…"
Amelia A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio, also known as 'Tre Archi,' is located within the historic center of Matera. It's easily accessible on foot once you're in the Sassi districts. Many visitors arrive in Matera via Bari Airport (BRI), then take a bus or train to Matera.
Yes, Matera is connected by train and bus services, particularly from nearby cities like Bari. Once in Matera, the Sassi are best explored on foot, though local buses serve some areas.
Driving directly to the viewpoint is not recommended due to pedestrian zones and limited parking in the Sassi. It's best to park outside the historic center and walk.
Walking is the primary way to explore the Sassi. Be prepared for many stairs and uneven surfaces. Consider guided tours for deeper insights into the history.
Matera can be a day trip from Bari, but an overnight stay is highly recommended to fully experience its charm, especially the views at different times of day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio is a public viewpoint and does not require an entrance ticket. You can enjoy the views freely.
As an outdoor viewpoint, Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio is accessible at all hours. However, the best times for photography are during daylight and golden hours.
The Sassi districts themselves are free to wander. However, specific attractions within the Sassi, like cave houses or museums, will have their own admission fees.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of approximately €3 to visit the Palombaro Lungo, an impressive underground cistern.
For some attractions, especially during peak season, booking in advance might be advisable. The Matera City Pass can offer discounts and access to multiple sites.
📸 📸 Photography
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio is a prime spot. Other excellent viewpoints include Piazza Pascoli, Piazza Duomo, and the Murgia Timone area for panoramic shots of the Sassi.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs of the Sassi from this viewpoint.
Drone usage in Matera, especially within the historic Sassi area, is often restricted due to its UNESCO status and proximity to residential areas. Check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the Sassi. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography during sunrise, sunset, or at night.
Photography policies vary for different cave dwellings and museums. Some may allow photos without flash, while others might prohibit it. Always check signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several cafes and restaurants near the viewpoint. Bar Caffè Tripoli is mentioned as a nearby spot for coffee and traditional pastries.
Look for local specialties like 'peperoni cruschi' (crispy dried peppers), 'orecchiette' pasta, and lamb dishes. Matera also has excellent bread.
Yes, many restaurants and cafes in the Sassi offer stunning views of the ancient city, especially those located on higher terraces.
Dining prices can vary. You can find more affordable options in trattorias away from the main tourist paths, while restaurants with prime views might be more expensive.
While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options. Vegan options might require specific requests.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a break, look for cafes offering local pastries like 'maritozzi' or enjoy a gelato. While the sheer scale of Matera can be tiring, the novelty of sleeping in a cave hotel or exploring the ancient city often captivates younger visitors. Remember to pace yourselves and focus on the most engaging sites rather than trying to see everything.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider staying in a cave hotel for a truly immersive experience. Solo travelers can also benefit from guided tours to gain deeper historical insights and connect with fellow travelers. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or other visitors at viewpoints or in trattorias. Matera's compact nature makes it easy to navigate, and its beauty is captivating at any time of day.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Beyond the main viewpoints, explore lesser-known alleys and courtyards for unique shots. Consider visiting Casa Noha for its historical multimedia presentation, which can inspire photographic themes. While drones offer aerial perspectives, be aware of potential restrictions in the UNESCO-protected areas. A wide-angle lens and a tripod will be your best friends for capturing the grandeur of Matera.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Matera's Sassi
Many of these cave dwellings have been transformed into charming hotels, restaurants, and artisan shops, offering visitors a unique opportunity to stay within history. The Palombaro Lungo, an immense underground cistern, showcases the ingenuity of Matera's past inhabitants in managing water resources. The sheer scale and preservation of the Sassi make it a truly unforgettable destination, offering a profound connection to ancient civilizations.
Key Takeaways for Exploring the Sassi:
* Wear comfortable shoes: The terrain is challenging with many stairs and uneven paths.
* Allow ample time: Getting lost (in a good way!) is part of the experience. Plan for at least half a day, or ideally an overnight stay.
* Consider a guided tour: Local guides can provide invaluable historical context and point out hidden gems.
Capturing the Iconic Views: Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio
The best time to visit for photography is undoubtedly during the golden hours – sunrise and sunset. The warm, soft light bathes the ancient stones in a magical glow, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the Sassi. Many visitors also recommend experiencing the view at night, when the Sassi are illuminated, offering a completely different, enchanting perspective. On occasion, local musicians might even play here in the evenings, adding a beautiful auditory layer to the visual spectacle.
Photography Tips for Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio:
* Timing: Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light.
* Composition: Use the arches as natural frames for your shots.
* Night Photography: Bring a tripod if you plan to capture the illuminated Sassi after dark.
* Explore nearby: Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas for different angles and perspectives of the Sassi.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit