[2025 Matera Attraction] Travel Guide for Church of Saint Mary of Idris (Updated May)

📍Church of Saint Mary of Idris Cave Church, Matera, Italy ✔️One of the iconic landmarks of Matera, a place that showcases the city's unique history and religious significance ✔️The church is located in the Sassi area of ​​Matera, and is particularly located on the top of the San Pietro Caveoso rock, which gives it a unique landscape and deep religious value. The church is located on the top of the rock (Sasso Barisano) and was built in a form carved directly into the rock. #TravelAbroad

I just got back from an incredible trip to Matera, Italy, and I can't stop thinking about it! 🏞️ Matera, located in the Basilicata region, is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The entrance fee for the main cave sites is around 10 euros, and it's worth every cent to explore such a unique and historic place. Walking through the narrow, winding streets of the Sassi district felt like stepping into a different era. The stone houses carved into the cliffs are fascinating, and the views over the Gravina gorge are stunning. 🌄 Don't miss visiting the rock churches with their beautiful frescoes, particularly the Church of Santa Maria de Idris. Nearby, the city offers plenty of charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine, including fresh pasta and hearty bread. For a change of pace, take a short drive to the nearby town of Altamura, known for its historic center and famous bread. Matera is a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. If you love exploring unique places, it's a must-visit! #Matera #Italy #SassiDiMatera #TravelItaly 🏞️🇮🇹

Matera, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is one of the most fascinating and historically rich cities in the country. Known for its ancient cave dwellings, called "sassi," and its well-preserved medieval architecture, Matera offers a unique glimpse into Italy's distant past. What to Expect Visitors to Matera will discover a city that feels like a journey back in time. The sassi are ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs, creating a labyrinth of homes, churches, and alleyways that have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. The city is divided into two main districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, both offering stunning views and historic charm. Experiences and Recommendations Start your exploration with a guided tour of the sassi, which will provide historical context and show you some of the most remarkable cave dwellings and rock churches. The Church of Santa Maria de Idris and the Crypt of Original Sin, known as the "Sistine Chapel of cave churches," are must-see sites. Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a restored cave house that offers insights into the daily life of Matera’s past inhabitants. The Museo Laboratorio della Civiltà Contadina showcases traditional tools and crafts, highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage. The Cathedral of Matera, perched atop the Civita hill, offers breathtaking views of the sassi and the surrounding landscape. Its Romanesque architecture and detailed frescoes make it a worthwhile visit. #mytravelhacks#localguides#familytrip

Matera, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is known for its ancient cave dwellings called "sassi." Carved into the soft limestone cliffs, these dwellings date back thousands of years, making Matera one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. What to Expect Visitors to Matera will encounter an otherworldly landscape where ancient sassi cling to the hillsides, creating a labyrinthine network of caves, stairways, and stone facades. The city is divided into two main districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, both offering a fascinating glimpse into the past with their rock-hewn churches and residences. The Cathedral of Matera, perched atop the hill, offers panoramic views of the sassi below. Experiences and Recommendations Exploring the sassi districts on foot is essential, providing an intimate perspective of the unique architecture and the chance to visit several cave churches adorned with centuries-old frescoes. Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario is a restored cave house that offers insight into the daily lives of Matera's former residents. Don't miss the ancient Church of Santa Maria di Idris, which combines a rock-cut structure with a medieval facade. For a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight in a cave hotel, which blends modern comfort with historical charm. #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides