Casa Cava - A motorcycle is parked in front of a house
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Casa Cava

4.6
·1k reviews·Matera, Italy

Explore Casa Cava, a unique cultural center in Matera's ancient tufa quarry, offering live music, historical exhibits, and a glimpse into cave living.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Casa Cava - A motorcycle is parked in front of a house

Casa Cava

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Casa Cava, a unique cultural center in Matera's ancient tufa quarry, offering live music, historical exhibits, and a glimpse into cave living.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Casa Cava is a very good visit! Well maintained and very clean, used for conferences (inside a cave!!), I think is a great idea."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Matera's Sassi are hilly with uneven paths. You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular sites like Casa Cava and cave churches, booking ahead ensures entry and saves time. :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Casa Cava's Underground Ambiance

Casa Cava's Underground Ambiance

Matera, Italy

Explore a unique cultural center within a former tufa quarry, hosting live music and historical exhibits.

Matera's Sassi Districts

Matera's Sassi Districts

Matera, Italy

Wander through ancient cave dwellings, a UNESCO site offering a glimpse into millennia of human history.

Cave Churches of Matera

Cave Churches of Matera

Murgia Materana Park

Discover ancient rock-hewn churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes, a testament to early Christian life.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Matera's Cave Wonders

Matera's unique cave dwellings, like Casa Cava, are popular. Booking tickets in advance is wise, especially for guided tours or specific exhibits, to avoid disappointment and long queues. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more intimate experience.

Embrace the Sassi's Terrain

Matera's Sassi districts are a UNESCO World Heritage site with uneven, ancient pathways. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Casa Cava and the surrounding cave city. Be prepared for inclines and steps.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Now just imagine living in a cave in Italy... 😁😁😁 #italy #matera #travel #basilicata #italia #italian #viaggio
@handluggageonly
337.9K likes • 3.9M views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Matera's Sassi are hilly with uneven paths. You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular sites like Casa Cava and cave churches, booking ahead ensures entry and saves time. :admission_tickets:

Next time you are in Italy, you need to visit Matera! We stayed in a beautiful cave apartment for 60€ per person (a night) and it is one of my new favorite places:) #matera #europetravel #europetiktok #italyplanning #italytravelguide #basilicata #materaitaly
@gabbyelisa
73K likes • 428.4K views
Discover La Casa Cava, a stunning Tuscan-style retreat with a 65-foot solar-heated pool, a self-sufficient orchard, and breathtaking vineyard views. Extraordinary property of the day represented by Adrián Toscano of @sanmiguelsir.
sothebysrealty
627 likes • 14.3K views

Explore Beyond Casa Cava

Matera is a city of caves! Don't miss the Sassi districts and the ancient cave churches. :world_map:

Stay in a Cave

Experience Matera fully by staying in a renovated cave apartment for a unique night. :bed:

Casa Cava is the hottest dancefloor in town❤️‍🔥 Come see for yourself tonight;) #moescantina #rivernorth #rivernorthchicago #chicagoresturants #chicagohappyhour #chicagofoodie #tacotuesday #tacothursday #happyhour #tacosandtequila #margaritas #chitown #drinkspecials #latineats
moescantina
27 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Matera's Sassi are hilly with uneven paths. You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular sites like Casa Cava and cave churches, booking ahead ensures entry and saves time. :admission_tickets:

Explore Beyond Casa Cava

Matera is a city of caves! Don't miss the Sassi districts and the ancient cave churches. :world_map:

Stay in a Cave

Experience Matera fully by staying in a renovated cave apartment for a unique night. :bed:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Casa Cava is praised as a brilliant and well-maintained cultural center within a unique cave setting, ideal for speeches and events. Visitors appreciate the historical insights and the charming atmosphere of Matera. However, some find it to be a small venue primarily showing a documentary, suggesting other 'casa' experiences might offer more.

"It is an amazing place to make speeches. The cave is well maintained and the decision to use the cave as conference room is brilliant! The town is also wonderful for a long walk. This is one marked city in my heart. Highly recommended."

XW H.

"This place is a very good visit!
Well maintained and very clean, used for conferences (inside a cave!!), I think is a great idea.
Casa cava is a cave very small but cute. Highly recommended to visit if you are in Matera which is wonderful and must visit once in a lifetime. It has a place in my heart.
Also the staff is brilliant and very welcoming, thanks a lot!!"

Vic

"It isbgood to know and listen more about Matera, you will learn things you did not know."

Guillermo Guagliardo

What People Like

Unique cave venue
Historical insights
Well-maintained space

What People Dislike

Small venue size
Limited exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Casa Cava is located in Matera, Italy. If arriving by air, the nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI). From Bari, you can take a bus or train to Matera. Many visitors also use Matera as part of a larger Puglia road trip, with routes from cities like Rome and Naples. TikTok

Matera's historic center, the Sassi, is a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by its ancient cave dwellings. While beautiful, it involves many steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. TikTok

Driving directly into the Sassi districts can be challenging due to ZTL (limited traffic zones) and narrow streets. It's often best to park outside the historic center and explore on foot. TikTok

The best way to explore the Sassi is on foot, allowing you to discover hidden alleys and breathtaking viewpoints. Consider guided tours to learn more about the history and architecture. Reddit

While walking is the primary mode of transport within the Sassi, there are local buses that can help you navigate between different parts of the city, especially if you have mobility concerns. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Casa Cava functions as a cultural center and often hosts events. While entry might be free for general exploration, specific exhibitions or performances may require tickets. It's advisable to check their official schedule or inquire locally. Reddit

The cost for Casa Cava can vary depending on whether there's a special exhibition or event. Some reviews suggest a small fee for a documentary, around 4 euros. It's best to confirm current pricing on-site or their official channels. Reddit

Opening hours for Casa Cava can vary, especially as it's a cultural center that hosts events. It's recommended to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any scheduled closures. Reddit

Yes, many of the cave churches within the Sassi and the Murgia Materana Park require a ticket for entry. These are often part of a combined ticket or can be purchased individually. Reddit

Tickets for Matera's attractions, including cave churches and museums, can typically be purchased at the site itself, at local tourist information offices, or sometimes online through official websites. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Casa Cava is a unique cultural center located in a former tufa quarry. It's known for its atmospheric underground spaces, often used for live music performances, conferences, and historical exhibits about Matera. TikTok

Inside Casa Cava, you can experience the impressive architecture of the former quarry. Reviews mention it's used for conferences and sometimes shows a documentary about Matera's history. Reddit

Absolutely! Casa Cava is frequently used as a venue for speeches, conferences, and live gigs due to its unique underground setting. The acoustics and ambiance are often praised. Reddit

Casa Cava is situated within a former tufa quarry, a material extensively used in the construction of Matera's ancient cave dwellings. It offers a tangible connection to the city's long history of subterranean living and architecture. TikTok

Beyond Casa Cava, you must explore the Sassi di Matera (cave dwellings), the Duomo di Matera (cathedral with a view), and the Palombaro Lungo (underground water cistern). The Murgia Materana Park offers stunning views and more cave churches. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

For incredible photos, head to the viewpoints overlooking the Sassi, especially during sunrise or sunset. The narrow alleys, cave entrances, and the Duomo di Matera offer endless photographic opportunities. TikTok

Photography rules can vary inside Casa Cava, especially during events. Generally, for personal use, it's often permitted, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or ask staff. TikTok

The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset provides the most magical light for photographing Matera's ancient stone structures. Midday can be harsh, but offers good visibility. TikTok

The exterior of Casa Cava, blending into the Matera landscape, can be photogenic. Inside, the unique cave architecture itself offers a distinct photographic subject, especially if there's an event or exhibition. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the Sassi. A versatile zoom lens is useful for street photography in the alleys. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots, especially at dusk or dawn. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Matera offers a unique adventure for families, with its ancient cave dwellings sparking imagination. While the terrain can be challenging with strollers, exploring the Sassi and visiting places like Casa Cava can be fascinating. Consider focusing on the more accessible paths and perhaps engaging in a guided tour that makes history come alive for children. TikTok

Look for family-friendly accommodations, some of which are renovated cave apartments that kids find incredibly exciting. The sheer novelty of living in a cave can be a highlight of the trip. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes, and plan for breaks, as the exploration can be tiring for little legs. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Matera is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, offering a rich historical and cultural experience. Casa Cava provides a unique venue to learn about the city's past, and the Sassi are perfect for aimless wandering and discovery. You'll find plenty of opportunities for quiet contemplation and stunning photography. TikTok

Engaging with local culture is easy here, whether through attending an event at Casa Cava or simply enjoying a meal in a local trattoria. The city's compact nature makes it easy to navigate independently, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a comfortable place to explore on your own. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Matera is a photographer's dream, with its ancient stone architecture and dramatic landscapes. Casa Cava offers unique interior shots with its cave setting, while the Sassi provide endless opportunities for capturing atmospheric street scenes and panoramic vistas. TikTok

Plan to shoot during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Explore the various viewpoints overlooking the Sassi for breathtaking wide shots. Don't forget to capture the intricate details of the cave dwellings and the textures of the ancient stone. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Matera's Cave Dwellings

Matera is renowned for its Sassi, ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock. These settlements date back to the Paleolithic era, making Matera one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. For centuries, people lived in these natural caves, adapting them into homes, churches, and workshops. TikTok

In the mid-20th century, the Sassi were considered a national shame due to poor living conditions, lacking basic amenities like running water and electricity. This led to a government-led relocation of residents in the 1950s. However, a remarkable revitalization effort began in the late 20th century, transforming the Sassi into a unique tourist destination. Today, many caves have been beautifully restored into homes, hotels, restaurants, and cultural spaces like Casa Cava. TikTok

Casa Cava itself is a testament to this history, being located within a former tufa quarry. It showcases how these natural formations were ingeniously utilized for human habitation and activity. Visiting Casa Cava offers a direct connection to Matera's deep past and its incredible transformation. Reddit

Experiencing Casa Cava: More Than Just a Cave

Casa Cava is more than just an ancient cave; it's a vibrant cultural hub in Matera. Its unique underground setting provides an unparalleled atmosphere for various events, from intimate live music performances to larger conferences and speeches. The natural acoustics of the quarry are often highlighted as a significant feature. Reddit

While some visitors note that it primarily functions as a cultural center, often showing a documentary about Matera's history, this experience is still highly valued by many. The documentary offers insights into the city's past, and the clean facilities are appreciated. It's a place to learn and absorb the essence of Matera in a truly distinctive environment. Reddit

For those interested in the arts and local history, Casa Cava offers a memorable experience. It's a space that bridges the ancient past with contemporary cultural life, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring Matera's unique heritage. TikTok

Navigating Matera's Terrain and Accessibility

Exploring Matera, especially the Sassi districts where Casa Cava is located, requires a certain level of physical fitness. The city is built on steep hillsides, with numerous steps, narrow alleys, and uneven stone pathways. Comfortable and sturdy footwear is absolutely essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. TikTok

While the historic nature of the Sassi presents accessibility challenges, efforts have been made to improve access. Some main routes are more manageable, and there are local buses that can help connect different parts of the city. However, be prepared for a significant amount of walking and inclines if you wish to fully immerse yourself in the Sassi. TikTok

For visitors with mobility issues, it's advisable to plan your route carefully, perhaps focusing on the more accessible areas or utilizing local transport where possible. Many visitors find that the effort is well worth the reward of experiencing such a unique and ancient city. Reddit

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