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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
San Pietro Caveoso Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning rupestrian church carved into Matera's ancient Sassi, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and breathtaking views.
"Definitely pay the couple of euros to light up the ceiling and chapels! A must-visit."
👟 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Caveous Interior
Step inside to discover ancient chapels and a breathtaking frescoed ceiling.
Panoramic Views
Enjoy stunning vistas of the Sasso Caveoso district and the Gravina canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sassi
Beyond the Facade
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
📸 Capture the Light
Visit early or late for the best natural light to photograph the church and its views.
📍 Explore the Piazza
The church is located in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a vibrant square perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.
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.
💡 Small Fee for Big Impact
Pay the few euros to light up the ceiling and chapels; it's worth it for the full experience.
📸 Capture the Light
Visit early or late for the best natural light to photograph the church and its views.
📍 Explore the Piazza
The church is located in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, a vibrant square perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Yes, many guided tours of Matera include a visit to San Pietro Caveoso Church as part of their itinerary, offering historical context and insights.
📸 📸 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.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
Inside, you can explore ancient chapels, admire Baroque elements, and see statues of saints. The illuminated ceiling and frescoes are a highlight.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of San Pietro Caveoso
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.
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.
Experiencing the Sassi and Beyond
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. 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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit