Convento di Sant'Agostino, Matera

Church, Convent and Viewing Point in Matera

Convento di Sant’Agostino
Convento di Sant’Agostino
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Davide Mauro

Perched on the edge of Matera's historic core, the Convento di Sant'Agostino is a landmark church-and-convent complex that rewards visitors with a calm atmosphere and a standout panorama over the Sassi. Even if you're not planning a long church crawl, it's an easy, high-impact stop that pairs architecture with a classic Matera view.

It fits naturally into a walking tour of the Sassi and the Civita area: come for the belvedere-style outlook, then step inside for a quieter counterpoint to the busy lanes below. If you're timing your day around the best places to see the Sassi from above, this is one of the simplest viewpoints to add without going out of your way.

History and Significance of the Convento di Sant’Agostino

The Convento di Sant'Agostino reflects Matera's long tradition of religious life intertwined with the city's rock-cut landscape. Like many historic complexes here, its story is layered: what you see above ground is only part of the picture, with older spaces and rupestrian (rock) elements connected to the site's evolution.

Over the centuries, Matera’s churches often shifted roles as communities, orders, and civic needs changed. Sant’Agostino is part of that broader pattern, standing as both a place of worship and a marker of how the city expanded and organized itself along the ridge above the Sassi.

Today, its significance for travelers is twofold: it's a scenic “threshold” between upper Matera and the Sassi below, and it's a reminder that some of the most memorable art in Matera can be tucked away in side chapels, sacristies, and underground spaces rather than in grand, museum-like halls.

Things to See and Do in the Convento di Sant’Agostino

Start outside. The forecourt and the area in front of the church act like a natural viewing terrace, and many visitors rate the panorama as a highlight—especially in late afternoon when the Sassi's stone warms in color. It's also a great place to pause on a walking route before descending back into the lanes.

Inside, look for fresco details and the overall sense of stillness that contrasts with the bustle of Matera’s main viewpoints. The church is typically a quick visit, but it’s worth slowing down to scan side areas where artwork can be easy to miss at first glance.

If available during your visit, ask on-site about access to the underground or rupestrian spaces associated with the complex. Travelers frequently mention that the below-grade rock church experience and its frescoes can be the most memorable part of the stop, turning a short church visit into something distinctly “Matera.”

How to Get to the Convento di Sant’Agostino

The nearest major airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Naples International Airport (NAP), with additional options via Brindisi (BDS) depending on your route. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Matera on Booking.com.

Matera is reachable by rail connections via Bari (commonly using regional networks), and from Matera Centrale you can continue on foot or by local transport/taxi toward the historic center. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy..

If you’re driving, aim for a parking area outside the ZTL/limited-traffic zones and continue on foot into the center, since the streets near the Sassi can be tight and access-controlled. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Convento di Sant’Agostino

  • Entrance fee: Free; donations appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Check official website.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon is ideal for the view over the Sassi and softer light for photos, while mornings tend to be quieter inside.
  • How long to spend: Plan 20–40 minutes for the church and viewpoint; add extra time if you’re able to visit any underground/rupestrian areas.
  • Accessibility: Expect steps and uneven paving around the historic center; the interior may be easier than the surrounding approaches, but mobility can still be challenging.
  • Facilities: Facilities on-site can be limited; plan for restrooms, water, and longer breaks in the nearby café and restaurant areas of central Matera.

Where to Stay Close to the Convento di Sant’Agostino

Base yourself in or just above the Sassi/Civita area for the easiest walking access to viewpoints, churches, and evening strolls.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa Aquatio is a splurge pick for travelers who want a true “sleep in the stone” experience with a polished, high-comfort finish and a spa for recovery after long walks.

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel This is a classic luxury base near the Cathedral area, ideal if you want a refined historic setting and a central position for sunrise and evening viewpoints.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita Chosen for atmosphere: candlelit common spaces and a strong sense of place that feels inseparable from Matera’s identity.

Hotel Sassi A practical, well-located option for travelers who want to be close to the Sassi without overcomplicating logistics—good for short stays and early starts.

Pianelle Resort A comfortable boutique-style stay that balances character with convenience, making it a strong mid-to-upper range choice for couples and first-timers.

Is the Convento di Sant’Agostino Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you want a high-reward stop that combines a peaceful church interior with a memorable Sassi panorama. It's the kind of place that doesn't demand a big time commitment, yet it can deliver one of your favorite views of Matera, plus the chance to spot frescoes and (sometimes) access a more hidden underground layer.

Honest Pivot: if you’re already doing multiple churches in one day and you’re not interested in viewpoints or fresco-hunting, this may feel similar to other stops. In that case, prioritize one major church plus one rupestrian church experience, and treat Sant’Agostino as optional unless you’re passing right by on foot.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (667)

Google reviewers are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere and especially the panoramic views over the Sassi. Many mention that the exterior setting and viewpoint are a standout, and several point out hidden frescoes and the option to access an underground/rupestrian church area that feels like the real “don’t miss” feature. Common downsides are minor: the interior can feel less impressive than the outside for some visitors, and the most memorable underground spaces may require asking on-site or may not be straightforward to access.

Sebastian Liksza
a year ago
"There is a stu ing view and the church is really great located. I liked even more the external appearance than interior. Important: in the sacristy(with office) ask for letting you into the underground church that was the former medieval predecessor rich in equipment and frescos that contrary to most other in Matera are western style (less bizantic)..."
daniel estrada
7 years ago
"Nice church to see, at no cost. There are beautiful frescos hidden away within, as well as some great views of Sassi Di Matera. We couldn't resisttaking some family photos here!..."
Patricia J
7 years ago
"The church is wonderful, however the below grade (downstairs) Rock (Rupestarian) Church of San Giuliano is amazing and shouldn’t be missed. Ceded in1592 to the Augustinian Friars. The frescos are truly amazing...."

For Different Travelers

Sant’Agostino works best as a flexible, low-pressure stop: come for the view, stay for the quiet, and add the underground element if it’s available. It’s easy to tailor to your pace and interests.

Families with Kids

For families, the big win is the viewpoint: it’s a quick “wow” moment that doesn’t require a long attention span. Pair it with a short walk and a snack break so kids don’t burn out on too many similar-looking stone streets.

Inside, keep it simple—spot a few key details (a fresco, an altar, a side area) and move on. If an underground visit is possible, decide based on your child’s comfort with stairs and enclosed spaces.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will love the calm and the scenery: it’s an easy place to slow down, take photos, and enjoy Matera’s atmosphere without the crowds of the most famous overlooks. Aim for late afternoon and linger outside as the light changes.

If you’re building a romantic itinerary, use Sant’Agostino as a transition point: viewpoint first, then a gentle wander back through the lanes toward dinner. It’s a small stop that can make the day feel more curated.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers get strong value here because the experience is largely about place: the view, the walk, and the ambiance. It’s a satisfying stop even when you’re keeping paid entries to a minimum.

If there’s an optional donation or a small paid add-on for a special area, treat it as a “choose your splurge” moment—worth considering if it unlocks frescoes or a unique underground space you won’t see elsewhere.

History Buffs

History lovers should approach Sant'Agostino as a layered site rather than a single-room highlight. The relationship between the built church and any rock-cut elements is part of what makes Matera distinct.

To deepen the visit, connect it to a broader route: combine it with at least one rupestrian church and a museum stop so you can place the frescoes and spaces into Matera’s wider timeline.

FAQs for Visiting Convento di Sant’Agostino

Getting There

Yes, it’s typically reached on foot as part of a Sassi/Civita walking route. Expect slopes and steps depending on your approach.
You can usually get close by taxi, but final access may still require a short walk due to restricted streets. Ask your driver for the nearest drop-off point.
Yes, it pairs naturally with Sassi viewpoints and nearby churches, making it easy to include without detours.

Tickets & Entry

Entry is generally free for the main church. Some special areas may have different access rules.
Donations are often appreciated in churches like this, especially if you receive extra access or assistance on-site. Carry a few coins.
Sometimes underground/rupestrian spaces have separate arrangements. Check on-site during your visit.

Visiting Experience

Most people treat it as a short, high-impact stop for the view and a brief interior visit. It can become longer if additional areas are open.
Focus on fresco details and side areas that can be easy to overlook. The quieter atmosphere is part of the appeal.
It often feels calmer than the busiest overlooks, though the outside viewpoint can get busier around golden hour.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Many self-guided and guided routes pass nearby because it sits naturally along scenic walking lines. It’s easy to add even if your tour doesn’t stop long.
Use it as a viewpoint stop between exploring the lanes and visiting one rupestrian church. It works well as a breather before your next descent.
Either works, but many travelers prefer to time it for late afternoon light and then continue into an evening stroll.

Photography

Yes, the viewpoint area is a favorite for wide Sassi shots and family photos. Late afternoon light is especially flattering.
Policies can vary; be respectful and avoid flash around artwork. If in doubt, ask on-site.
A wide-angle helps for panoramas, while a standard lens is great for details and interior scenes.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be difficult due to Matera’s slopes, steps, and uneven paving. Even if the entrance is manageable, the surrounding approaches may be challenging.
Don’t count on it; plan to use facilities at cafés or your accommodation before/after. Keep water with you in warmer months.
You may find places to pause outside, and churches often have limited seating inside. For a longer rest, nearby cafés are the best option.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, central Matera has plenty of options within a short walk. Plan a break around your viewpoint timing.
Yes, it’s a natural pre-dinner viewpoint, then you can head to a nearby bar for aperitivo. This is one of the easiest ways to make the stop feel special.
Matera is better for café breaks than picnics in many central spots. If you do snack outdoors, keep it tidy and respectful.

Safety & Timing

Central Matera is generally comfortable for evening walks, but watch your footing on steps and uneven stone. Stick to well-lit routes.
Late afternoon into sunset is the classic choice for warm tones on the Sassi. Morning can be quieter if you prefer fewer people.
Uneven paving and stair-heavy routes are the main hazards. Wear shoes with grip and take your time on descents.

Nearby Attractions to the Convento di Sant’Agostino

  • Sassi di Matera: The city's iconic cave-dwelling districts, best explored slowly on foot through lanes, stairways, and viewpoints.
  • Matera Cathedral (Duomo): A hilltop landmark with a commanding position over the Sassi and a classic stop on any first visit.
  • Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso: A prominent church at the edge of the ravine area, often paired with scenic walks and overlooks.
  • Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: A furnished cave-home style visit that helps you visualize traditional Sassi life in a tangible way.
  • Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli: One of Matera’s most famous panoramic terraces for wide, postcard-style views.

The Convento di Sant'Agostino appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Matera!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Check official website.

Price:

Free; donations appreciated.

Address: Via D'Addozio, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
Matera: 1 km

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