San Pietro Caveoso Church - people walking in front of cathedral near the mountains
1 / 10

San Pietro Caveoso Church

4.9
·111 reviews·Matera, Italy

A stunning rupestrian church carved into Matera's ancient Sassi, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and breathtaking views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, softer light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
San Pietro Caveoso Church - people walking in front of cathedral near the mountains

San Pietro Caveoso Church

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, softer light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning rupestrian church carved into Matera's ancient Sassi, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and breathtaking views.

4.9
(111 reviews)

"Definitely pay the couple of euros to light up the ceiling and chapels! A must-visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

The Sassi are rocky and uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the church and its surroundings.

💡 Small Fee for Big Impact

Pay the few euros to light up the ceiling and chapels; it's worth it for the full experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Facade

Baroque Facade

Admire the intricate Baroque-style facade with its three portals and statues of saints.

Caveous Interior

Caveous Interior

Step inside to discover ancient chapels and a breathtaking frescoed ceiling.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Enjoy stunning vistas of the Sasso Caveoso district and the Gravina canyon.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sassi

San Pietro Caveoso Church is nestled within Matera's ancient Sassi districts. Wear comfortable shoes for the rocky paths and be prepared for steps. Consider visiting early or late to avoid peak crowds and capture the best light.

Beyond the Facade

While the exterior is striking, don't miss the chance to explore the interior. A small fee often grants access to illuminated chapels and the stunning frescoed ceilings, offering a deeper appreciation of its history.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, softer light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hotel en Matera: Hotel Corte San Pietro #hotel #hotelroom #matera #italia #italy #travellife #viajarporelmundo #viajeros #italytravel
@ahivamos_ok
5.6K likes • 54.7K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

The Sassi are rocky and uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the church and its surroundings. Reddit

💡 Small Fee for Big Impact

Pay the few euros to light up the ceiling and chapels; it's worth it for the full experience. Reddit

the best breakfast in my life 🥞 . 📍Sextantio Grotte Civita - a cave hotel in acient Italian town Matera . #matera #puglia #hotelmatera #hotelpuglia #rec
@mariammelikbakhsh
3.1K likes • 79.4K views
📍Matera, Italy ❤️🇮🇹 Italy’s magical city of stone. 💯 👉Rock carved hilltop church - Church of Saint Mary of Idris 👉 San Pietro Caveoso church next to piazza #epictravel #esthersepictravel #materaitaly #magicalmatera #materachurches #materastonecity #italylove #materabasilicata #explorematera #magicalstonecity #travelitaly #explore #traveltheworld #lovetotraveltheworld #theworldiswideandlifeissho...
orchiddz08
179 likes • 6.3K views

📸 Capture the Light

Visit early or late for the best natural light to photograph the church and its views. Instagram

📍 Explore the Piazza

The church is located in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a vibrant square perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Instagram

🇮🇹🎤Iniziata nel 1218, la chiesa dei santi Pietro e Paolo a Matera - popolarmente conosciuta come chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso - ha subito modifiche e ristrutturazioni nel corso dei secoli con la condeguente perdita di molte delle caratteristiche costruttive originali. Nel XVII secolo l' edificio fu totalmente ristrutturato e dotato dell’attuale facciata e della torre campanaria, mentre l’interno v...
diffondarte
48 likes • 365 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

The Sassi are rocky and uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the church and its surroundings. Reddit

💡 Small Fee for Big Impact

Pay the few euros to light up the ceiling and chapels; it's worth it for the full experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Light

Visit early or late for the best natural light to photograph the church and its views. Instagram

📍 Explore the Piazza

The church is located in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a vibrant square perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(111 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise San Pietro Caveoso Church as an amazing and beautiful site, with many highlighting the value of the small fee to illuminate the interior chapels and ceilings. The journey through the rocky paths to reach the church is also noted as a memorable part of the experience.

"Amazing place and such a beautiful church!
We were lucky to assist to a violin concert and this made the experience perfect!"

Vlad Popa

"One of the beautiful small towns in Puglia
🥰🥰🥰🥰"

Ioana D

"Definitely pay the couple of euros to light up the ceiling and chapels!"

Madeleine T

What People Like

Beautiful church interior
Illuminated chapels
Stunning views

What People Dislike

Uneven paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

San Pietro Caveoso Church is located in the heart of the Sassi di Matera. If you're arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas outside the Sassi and walk in. Many visitors find it easiest to reach by foot from the main town center, following signs towards the Sassi. Taxis can also drop you off near the entrance to the Sassi districts. TikTok

The Sassi are a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by winding, narrow streets and many stairs. While beautiful, they can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main church area is often free, but there's a small fee (typically a couple of euros) to access and illuminate the interior chapels and ceiling. This fee helps with the preservation of the site. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs posted at the entrance. Generally, it's open during daylight hours. Instagram

Yes, many guided tours of Matera include a visit to San Pietro Caveoso Church as part of their itinerary, offering historical context and insights. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For the best photographic opportunities, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The soft light during these 'golden hours' enhances the textures of the stone and provides beautiful views of the Sassi. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed inside the church, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs. Flash photography might be discouraged to protect the frescoes. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

This rupestrian church is carved directly into the limestone rock of the Sassi. Its history dates back to the 13th century, with significant renovations in the 17th century. Instagram+1

Inside, you can explore ancient chapels, admire Baroque elements, and see statues of saints. The illuminated ceiling and frescoes are a highlight. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's located in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and is very close to the Church of Santa Maria di Idris, another significant rupestrian church. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Pietro Caveoso Church offers a unique historical adventure for families. The 'rock-hewn' nature of the church and the surrounding Sassi can spark children's imaginations, making history feel tangible. While the paths can be uneven, the novelty of exploring a cave church can be exciting. Consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities can be sparse within the Sassi. The small fee to light up the interior is often a hit with kids, who enjoy seeing the colorful frescoes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

San Pietro Caveoso Church is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. While there's a small fee for interior illumination, the main church access is often free. The real value lies in the incredible historical and visual experience it offers within the context of the free-to-explore Sassi. Pack your own water and snacks to save on costs in the tourist areas. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, San Pietro Caveoso Church and its surroundings are a dream. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stone, especially during golden hour, is spectacular. Capture the intricate details of the Baroque facade and the panoramic views over the Sassi. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the illuminated frescoes inside, though be mindful of any flash restrictions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of San Pietro Caveoso

San Pietro Caveoso Church, also known as the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, boasts a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1218. Originally a rupestrian church carved into the rock, it has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. The most notable renovation occurred in the 17th century, which gave the church its current Baroque facade and interior layout. This blend of ancient rock-hewn architecture and later Baroque embellishments makes it a fascinating historical site. Instagram+1

The church is an integral part of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches. Its location in the Sasso Caveoso district offers a glimpse into the unique urban fabric of Matera, where human habitation has been continuous for millennia. The church's presence underscores the deep religious and cultural heritage embedded within this extraordinary landscape. Instagram+1

Visitors often remark on the 'winding and rocky path' leading to the church, which adds to the immersive experience of exploring the Sassi. The church's proximity to other significant sites like the Church of Santa Maria di Idris further enhances its appeal, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Matera's rock-hewn heritage. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Sassi and Beyond

San Pietro Caveoso Church is more than just a religious site; it's a gateway to understanding the unique lifestyle and history of Matera's Sassi. The church's location in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso places you at the heart of this ancient district, surrounded by cave dwellings and other historical structures. Instagram+1

Many visitors recommend paying the small fee to illuminate the interior. This allows you to truly appreciate the frescoes and the architectural details within the chapels, transforming the experience from a quick look to a deeper engagement with the site's artistry and history. Reddit The panoramic views from the church's vicinity offer breathtaking vistas of the Sasso Caveoso and the Gravina canyon, making it a prime spot for photography and contemplation. Instagram+1

Beyond the church itself, the surrounding Sassi offer endless opportunities for exploration. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and imagine life in these ancient cave homes. The experience is often described as magical and unforgettable, with many travelers suggesting ample time to simply get lost and absorb the unique atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

You may also like