Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano Matera
Matera's largest rock church, offering a journey through history with immersive multimedia and fascinating crypts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light for photos
Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano Matera
Best Time
Softer light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Matera's largest rock church, offering a journey through history with immersive multimedia and fascinating crypts.
"Out of the rock churches in Matera, this was the most fascinating one. "
🚗 Park Nearby
Utilize public garages a short walk away for easy access to the church and surrounding Sassi. 🚗
🎧 Multimedia Guide
Enhance your visit with the immersive multimedia guide for a deeper understanding. :iphone:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 824 reviews
Type
Church
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crypts
Underneath the main church
Explore the fascinating underground chambers, a unique and slightly eerie experience that reveals the church's deeper history.
Immersive Multimedia Experience
Engage with the history and spirituality of Matera through a captivating, narrated multimedia journey.
Modern Crucified Christ Statue
Admire a powerful and modern artistic interpretation of the crucified Christ, leaving a lasting impression.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for a Deeper Dive
Explore the Crypts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Nearby
Utilize public garages a short walk away for easy access to the church and surrounding Sassi. 🚗
🎧 Multimedia Guide
Enhance your visit with the immersive multimedia guide for a deeper understanding. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Matera's streets are steep and winding; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Tips
Capture stunning photos during the 'golden hours' for softer, more dramatic lighting. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Nearby
Utilize public garages a short walk away for easy access to the church and surrounding Sassi. 🚗
🎧 Multimedia Guide
Enhance your visit with the immersive multimedia guide for a deeper understanding. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Matera's streets are steep and winding; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Tips
Capture stunning photos during the 'golden hours' for softer, more dramatic lighting. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano to be a fascinating and unique rock church in Matera, particularly praising its intriguing crypts and the emotional multimedia experience. While some historical elements have been damaged by vandalism, the modern art and the overall atmosphere leave a strong impression. It's considered a quick yet impactful visit.
"Out of the rock churches in Matera, this was the most fascinating one. The altars displayed are simply stunning (albeit vandalised in the 70s), the short video is quite emotional, and the basement is a truly unique experience (slight scary but nonetheless enjoyable).
Don't skip this one, a quick and fascinating visit! Loop"
Andreea Anghel
"Another beautiful church to admire. Make sure you go to the “basement”. It is fascinating. So sad that many items were vandalized in the 70’s"
Irene Estlund
"A church that is an example of the local vandalism of the 70s - heads of several statues are no longer there as well as the painting that used to hang above the altar. However, we were very impressed by the modern statue of the crucified Christ that is hanging on one of the walls of the church. It's impressive ragged beauty left us stunned. Regretfully, there was no name of the artist who created the statue and we found no info on it online as well. Whoever she or he is, it's the best image of Christ I've seen."
Dmitry N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the Sasso Barisano district of Matera. It's best to park in one of the nearby public garages, such as the one about an 8-minute walk away, and then explore the ancient streets on foot. 🚗
Yes, it's accessible by foot, but be prepared for steep, winding streets typical of Matera's Sassi districts. Comfortable shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
While public buses serve Matera, the most practical way to reach the church is often by parking nearby and walking, as the Sassi are largely pedestrianized. 🚌
Using a map or a GPS app on your phone is helpful. The church is a prominent landmark within the Sasso Barisano. :world_map:
No, private vehicles are generally restricted in the Sassi districts. Parking in designated garages is the recommended approach. :noentrysign:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are typically required, especially if you wish to experience the immersive multimedia content or explore the crypts. Booking in advance is often recommended. 🎟️
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times before your visit. :clock1:
Admission fees usually cover access to the main church, the crypts, and the multimedia experience. Prices can be found on the official ticketing platform. :moneybag:
You can explore the main church area independently, but the immersive multimedia experience and guided access to the crypts often require a specific ticket or tour. 🚶
Check for potential discounts for students, seniors, or family packages when purchasing tickets online or at the venue. :discount:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the main church area, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions, especially in sensitive areas or during multimedia presentations. :camerawithflash:
The early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer softer, more atmospheric light, ideal for capturing the church's unique architecture and the surrounding Sassi. 🌅
The views from the church's exterior, the intricate details of the altars, and the atmospheric crypts offer excellent photographic subjects. 🎨
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the site. It's advisable to inquire on-site or check their policy beforehand. :tripod:
The crypts can be dimly lit, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be beneficial. Consider using a wider aperture to capture more light. :low_brightness:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit