From Matera: Crypt of Original Sin Tour with Local Tasting

If you’re thinking about taking the Crypt of Original Sin Tour near Matera, you’ll find this experience offers some genuinely memorable moments, especially if you’re interested in ancient art and local wine. We’ve gathered a lot of feedback and details to help you decide if it’s the right fit, because like many tours, it has its positives and its quirks.

What we like most about this tour is how it combines history and local flavor in a relatively short time — just 2.5 hours — making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. Plus, the chance to see 8th-century frescoes in their original context and then unwind with a wine tasting at Masseria Dragone makes for an interesting mix.

However, some travelers have raised concerns about timing and communication issues, which can impact your overall experience. The logistics and the actual execution don’t always align perfectly with what’s advertised, so it’s worth knowing what to expect.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate historical art, enjoy wine tasting, and are comfortable with some minor inconveniences. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a compact cultural experience with flavorful local touches, but if seamless organization or a more in-depth exploration is your priority, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Historical significance: The tour gives you access to an 8th-century cave church with stunning frescoes.
• Guided insight: The audio guide enhances understanding of the art and history.
• Convenient transport: Pickup and transfer from Matera make logistics easier.
• Wine tasting: Enjoy local wines at Masseria Dragone, though reviews vary on timing and quality.
• Mixed reviews: Experiences differ a lot, especially regarding timing, transport, and value.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired visitors, or those with gluten intolerance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Crypt of Original Sin Tour

The Crypt’s Rich History and Art

We’ll start with the star of the show: the Crypt of Original Sin itself. This 8th-century cave church is more than just a dark hole in the ground — it’s a site where preserved frescoes tell stories from biblical scenes, including Adam and Eve, which give the crypt its dramatic name. The frescoes are quite striking, especially considering their age, and they show typical features of Benedictine art of that period.

As you walk through the cave, you’ll get a sense of how monks used this space for worship centuries ago. The audio guide, included in the tour, is a helpful tool that sheds light on the symbolism and techniques behind the paintings, making the experience more engaging. We appreciated how knowledgeable the guides were, explaining the frescoes’ background and their significance.

Transport and Logistics

The tour kicks off from the meeting point in Matera, at Martulli Viaggi, which is quite straightforward to find. Expect a 20-minute drive in an air-conditioned minivan — a nice touch given the southern Italian heat. The transportation is usually described as a minivan, but some reviews mention feeling like they were in a private car, which might come down to the group size.

The return transfer makes things easier, especially after a morning of exploring. Just keep in mind, the actual pickup and drop-off can sometimes feel a little disorganized, depending on the day.

Visiting the Cave Church

Once inside the cave, you’ll be able to see the frescoes up close — though, as some reviews point out, restrictions on photos and close-up views can make it a bit frustrating for those wanting to capture every detail. You’ll probably be in a small group, which helps with seeing the art, but don’t expect a leisurely walk; the tour is designed to be informative and efficient.

The cave church itself is a quiet, contemplative spot. It’s fascinating to stand where monks once worshipped, surrounded by centuries-old artwork. The frescoes depict biblical scenes, and their preservation is impressive considering the age and conditions.

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The Wine Tasting Experience

After exploring the crypt, you’re taken to Masseria Dragone for the wine tasting. This part of the tour is a mixed bag, according to reviews. Some say it’s a nice chance to sample local wines, and the setting is attractive, but others found the timing rushed and the experience somewhat underwhelming.

Expect a tasting that includes two pieces of cheese or bruschetta — which might feel a little skimpy if you’re expecting a more generous spread. The tasting is intended to showcase regional wines, and the setting gives a taste of rural Italian life, which we found charming. Just be aware that some visitors felt the tasting was too early in the day or too hurried.

Overall Duration and Value

The whole experience lasts about 2.5 hours, which is a good length if you’re short on time but still want a glimpse of Matera’s hidden corners. The price covers transportation, entry to the crypt, the audio guide, and the wine tasting, so it’s generally seen as decent value, especially compared to more extensive tours.

However, some reviews mention feeling that the experience was not as advertised — particularly regarding the timing of the wine tasting and the transport quality. One traveler expressed disappointment about the quick pace and the limited amount of wine and food provided.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a history buff curious about early Christian art or interested in seeing a unique cave church, this tour delivers a lot of value. It’s also a good pick for wine enthusiasts wanting to taste local varieties in a rustic setting. The inclusion of transportation makes it convenient for visitors staying in Matera.

That said, if you prefer a leisurely, unhurried experience with more focus on the art or wine, or if you’re sensitive to logistical hiccups, this might not be your best choice. Also, if you’re traveling with mobility issues, note that the cave is not accessible for those with certain impairments.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a compact yet meaningful look into Matera’s ancient past and regional wine culture. Its highlight is undeniably the crypt’s frescoes, which are quite special, especially for history lovers. The wine tasting adds a relaxing element, though it’s not without some criticisms regarding timing and presentation.

Expect an experience that’s a bit uneven — some parts, like the knowledgeable guides and stunning art, hit the mark well. Others, like logistics and the tasting itself, can leave you feeling a little disappointed if you have high expectations.

Overall, it’s a decent choice for those who want a quick cultural fix and enjoy local wines, but keep your expectations in check regarding organization and the scope of the tasting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t specifically designed for kids, and restrictions like no high heels, food, drinks, or baby carriages suggest it’s more adult-oriented. The cave’s darkness and fragile frescoes might not be ideal for young children.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including transportation, inside the crypt, and the wine tasting.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the pickup and drop-off from Matera are included, typically in an air-conditioned minivan. Some reviews mention feeling like they were in a private car, depending on the group size.

Are photos allowed inside the crypt?
No, the tour restrictions prohibit photos and close-up looks at the frescoes, which some travelers found limiting.

What is included in the wine tasting?
You’ll taste local wines along with two pieces of cheese or bruschetta, though some felt the tasting was rushed or limited.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this experience offers a window into ancient art and rural Italy’s flavors, but it’s not the most polished experience out there. If you enjoy historical sites and are open to a somewhat rushed but genuine taste of Matera’s cultural side, this tour can be quite rewarding. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews and arrive with realistic expectations about organization and pacing.

You can check availability for your dates here: