Tour of the three Crypts in the Murgia Materana with Transfer

Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Matera: A Closer Look at the Crypts and Underground Sites Tour

If you’re considering a visit to Matera and want to go beyond the typical sightseeing, this Tour of the three Crypts in the Murgia Materana with Transfer offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s underground secrets. While we haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of an experience that’s both culturally enriching and visually captivating.

What we love about this experience is how it combines historical sites with expert-guided insights—a real plus if you’re into uncovering stories behind ancient artifacts—and the convenience of private transportation, which makes a potentially complex itinerary quite straightforward. Plus, the inclusion of frescoes and art in each crypt makes this more than just a walk through old buildings—it’s a journey into the artistic soul of Basilicata.

One thing to keep in mind is that, since the tour is primarily self-guided with an audio guide inside the crypts and no live guide included, it might feel a bit more hands-off than fully guided tours. This could be a downside if you prefer a more narrative-driven experience. Still, for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace, it can be quite flexible.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate art, history, and archaeology, and who are comfortable with a 4-hour tour that involves some walking and sightseeing. It’s especially great for those who want a private, less crowded experience and are comfortable with a bit of self-guided exploration.

Key Points

• Private transfer and transportation make the experience stress-free and comfortable.
• The Crypt of the Original Sin offers stunning frescoes and a sense of discovery, especially after its 1963 rediscovery.
• Art and frescoes in the Crypt of St. Michael are notable, including Byzantine and 17th-century works.
• The tour is well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and good organization, with many praising the overall experience.
• It’s a cost-effective way to explore multiple underground sites in one go, especially with a group of up to five.
• The tour is flexible and perfect for travelers wanting a personalized experience without a live guide but with rich audio content.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at Martulli Viaggi’s office in Matera, where you’ll meet your driver and hop into a comfortable private minivan. This initial step sets the tone—expect a friendly welcome and a smooth ride, with the driver handling all logistics so you can focus on the upcoming sights. The 10-minute transfer to the outskirts of Matera is quick and offers a chance to start soaking in the landscape.

First Stop: Crypt of the Original Sin

This site is a true highlight. Located about 10 km from Matera, it’s a cave that was transformed into a church in the 9th century by Benedictine monks. Its fame largely stems from the frescoes painted by the Painter of Materas Flowers, which you can admire while listening to an audio guide.

Travelers who’ve visited rave about the crypt’s “surprising” beauty and the vividness of the frescoes, which give you a tangible sense of early Christian art. The rediscovery in 1963 added a new chapter to its story, turning it into one of Matera’s top attractions. The experience here is relatively short—about 30 minutes—but packed with visual details that stay with you.

Second Stop: Madonna della Palomba

Back in the heart of Matera, this site is not just a church but an artistic and spiritual jewel. The Church of Madonna della Palomba is rich in art and history, offering a different vibe from the underground crypts. It’s a place that enchants visitors with its serenity and the chance to view sacred art and architecture. Expect another 30-minute visit, which is enough to appreciate its charm without feeling rushed.

Third Stop: Crypt of St. Michael in Altamura

The final highlight is the Crypt of St. Michael the Archangel located inside the Masseria Jesce. This crypt is well known for its 14th-century frescoes, including a Byzantine Deesis and Marian scenes painted by Didaco de Simone in the 17th century.

Many reviews mention how impressive the frescoes are, giving a glimpse into the religious art of different eras. The crypt’s different artistic layers make it a fascinating site for anyone interested in the evolution of religious iconography, and the frescoes’ preservation adds to the experience. It’s a relatively short stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Returning to Matera

After these sites, your driver will drop you back at the starting point, making the whole trip smooth and stress-free. The entire experience lasts roughly 4 hours, including travel and visits, which makes it ideal for those with limited time but a curiosity for underground architecture and art.

The Value of This Tour

At $515.88 for a group of up to five, this private experience offers good value, especially considering private transport, entrance tickets, and the convenience of a self-guided approach with an audio guide. For travelers who want a personalized, flexible visit without the obligation of a large tour group or a guide narrating throughout, this setup works well.

It’s also worth noting that the reviews are largely positive regarding organization and the quality of the sites. One traveler mentioned that the organization was “perfect,” and many praise the knowledgeable guides (even if just through audio) for making the experience both interesting and accessible.

While some reviews pointed out the cancellation of a different Murge tour due to weather, the actual crypt tour seems quite reliable. Weather can always be an issue for outdoor or underground visits, so it’s worth checking the forecast and being prepared.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable exploring at your own pace, appreciate art and history, and want to avoid overly crowded groups, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who value private transportation and flexibility.

It’s also a good fit for travelers interested in religious art, frescoes, and archaeological sites. Since there’s no live guide, it’s better suited for confident explorers or those who enjoy listening to an audio guide. Families with older children might find it engaging, but it’s not specifically designed for young kids due to the nature of the sites.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Tour of the three Crypts in the Murgia Materana with Transfer offers a thoughtful mix of history, art, and underground exploration. The combination of private transport, well-preserved sites, and the opportunity to see frescoes spanning centuries makes for a memorable outing.

If you’re after a tour that balances ease of logistics with enriching sights, and you’re comfortable with a bit of self-guided touring, this could be a fantastic choice. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer a more intimate experience rather than large groups or guided narrations.

However, if you’re someone who thrives on guided storytelling or wants a tour with a live guide throughout, you might want to explore other options. But for those open to self-guided audio exploration, this offers a solid, well-organized window into Matera’s underground treasures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids with an interest in history or art might enjoy it. Keep in mind that some sites involve walking and exploring underground spaces, which may not be ideal for very young children.

What does the tour include?
It includes entrance tickets to all three crypts, an audio guide inside the Crypt of Original Sin, private transportation, and a 10% discount coupon for local food and drinks.

Are there any optional guides or live guides?
No, the tour does not include a live guide, only an audio guide during the Crypt of Original Sin. The organization and the driver are there to make the process smooth.

How long does each site stop last?
Most stops are around 30 minutes each, giving enough time to appreciate the frescoes and artifacts without rushing.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since some sites involve walking and exploring uneven surfaces. A camera and water are also good to have on hand.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is mostly indoors or is accessible by private transport, so weather isn’t a big concern. However, the activity might be canceled if conditions are severe, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the price per person or per group?
The listed price is for a group of up to five people, making it a relatively cost-effective way to see three significant sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Martulli Viaggi office in Matera, and the driver will pick you up there.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Just arrive on time, and perhaps read up a little about Matera’s underground sites to enhance your appreciation. No special preparation is necessary.

Choosing this tour means opting for a comfortably paced, art and history-focused experience that’s flexible and well-reviewed. If you want a glimpse into Matera’s hidden underground world without the fuss of large groups, this could be just the right fit.