Porta Pistola Belvedere
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Matera's ancient Sassi and the dramatic Gravina gorge from this stunning belvedere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Porta Pistola Belvedere
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Matera's ancient Sassi and the dramatic Gravina gorge from this stunning belvedere.
"Breathtaking views of Matera and ravines, definitely worth the trip!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The hike can be strenuous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Matera Views
Porta Pistola Belvedere
Breathtaking vistas of Matera's ancient Sassi and the Gravina gorge. A must-see for photographers and view-seekers.
The Tibetan Bridge
Gravina Gorge
A thrilling suspension bridge offering unique perspectives of the gorge and surrounding landscape. An adventurous addition to the hike.
Cave Exploration
Gravina Gorge
Discover ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffs, offering a glimpse into Matera's historical past. Explore responsibly.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Porta Pistola
What to Bring for the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The hike can be strenuous.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats and sunscreen are essential, as there's little shade on the trail.
🚶♀️ Hike from Matera
Enjoy a scenic walk from Matera's Sassi, taking about 30-40 minutes one way.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The hike can be strenuous.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats and sunscreen are essential, as there's little shade on the trail.
🚶♀️ Hike from Matera
Enjoy a scenic walk from Matera's Sassi, taking about 30-40 minutes one way.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
The terrain can be challenging with loose rocks and shale. Be mindful of your footing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Matera and the Gravina gorge from Porta Pistola Belvedere. The hike is considered a rewarding adventure, offering unique perspectives of ancient cave dwellings and the Tibetan bridge. While the terrain can be challenging, the free access and stunning scenery make it a highly recommended experience for most.
"Amazing 😍 The view is great. Easy to get by bike or feet from the parking which is 1.4-1.5 km away from a few view points. Child, dog friendly. For free."
ewelina b-u
"Fantastic walk from Matera. Count 3 hours relax round trip so you can walk around the caves etc… best early morning as it gets very hot!"
charles nouwen
"Short drive from Matera gives you a breathtaking view of the city and ravines. You can also hike here and take the bridge from Matera if the sun is not too strong. Definitely worth the trip to take in views of Matera and surroundings!"
Adam Tomczak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to hike from Matera's Sassi, specifically from the Vecchia Matera area near MyWay bakery. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes one way and offers stunning views. Alternatively, you can drive closer to some viewpoints, but the hike provides the full experience.
Yes, there are parking areas about 1.4-1.5 km away from some viewpoints. From there, it's a pleasant walk to reach the belvedere.
Public transport directly to the belvedere is limited. The best approach is to travel to Matera by bus or train (from Bari) and then undertake the hike.
The hike can be challenging due to rocky terrain and potential for loose shale. While many visitors complete it, those with weak ankles or balance issues should be cautious.
The hike from Matera leads you across a bridge into the gorge, offering access to caves and the Tibetan bridge. Be prepared for uneven ground.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Porta Pistola Belvedere is a natural viewpoint and hiking area, and access is generally free of charge.
As it's an outdoor natural area, there are no official opening or closing hours. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
The hike itself and access to the viewpoints are free. You only need to consider costs for transportation to Matera and any personal gear you might need.
Yes, families with children can visit, but parents should be extra vigilant due to the rocky terrain and potential hazards. Younger children may need to be carried in certain sections.
While not always advertised, local guides may be available in Matera who can lead tours to Porta Pistola and the surrounding gorge, offering historical insights.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find stunning panoramic views of Matera's Sassi, the Gravina gorge, ancient cave dwellings, and the Tibetan bridge. It's a great spot for photography.
The hike from Matera and back, including time to explore the viewpoints and caves, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours depending on your pace and how much you explore.
The Tibetan bridge is a suspension bridge and can sway. It's generally considered safe, but visitors should proceed with caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Expect rocky paths, loose shale, and some uneven surfaces. It's important to have good grip and be mindful of your footing.
There are no facilities directly at Porta Pistola Belvedere. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any snacks or drinks in Matera before you start your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical.
You can capture sweeping panoramas of Matera, dramatic shots of the Gravina gorge, close-ups of the cave dwellings, and dynamic images of the Tibetan bridge.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The main belvedere offers the classic panoramic view. Exploring slightly off the main path (safely) can reveal unique angles of the Sassi and gorge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sassi of Matera: A Living History
From Porta Pistola, you can truly grasp the scale and ingenuity of this ancient settlement. The belvedere provides a perspective that highlights how the Sassi are integrated into the natural topography of the Murgia plateau. It's a testament to human resilience and adaptation, showcasing a way of life that has persisted for thousands of years.
Visiting the Sassi is an immersive experience. Consider staying in a cave hotel for a truly unforgettable stay, as recommended by many travelers. Exploring the Sassi requires comfortable footwear and a willingness to get lost in its charming, winding streets.
Hiking the Gravina Gorge
Key features of the gorge hike include the Tibetan bridge, a thrilling suspension bridge that spans the gorge, offering spectacular views and a sense of adventure. You'll also encounter ancient cave dwellings carved into the gorge walls, some of which were once inhabited. The natural flora and fauna of the Murgia Materana are also a highlight, with unique plant species found in this ecosystem.
When hiking the gorge, it's crucial to be prepared. Wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be aware of the terrain. Some parts of the trail can be steep and covered in loose rocks, so caution is advised. The effort is well worth it for the incredible views and the sense of discovery.
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