Convicinio di Sant'Antonio, Matera

Cave, Church and Historic Site in Matera

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko

Tucked into the Sassi of Matera, the Convicinio di Sant'Antonio is a small but fascinating complex of adjoining rock-cut churches clustered around a shared entrance space. It's one of those places that feels like you've stepped into Matera's living geology: stone, shadow, and centuries of worship and daily life layered into the same carved rooms.

Most visitors see it as part of a walking tour through the Sassi (especially if you're already exploring the Caveoso/Casalnuovo side), and it pairs well with nearby viewpoints over the Gravina ravine. Even if you can't go inside, the surrounding lanes and cave dwellings make this corner of Matera worth a detour.

History and Significance of the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

The Convicinio di Sant'Antonio is best understood as a “cluster” rather than a single church: multiple rupestrian (rock-hewn) chapels sit side by side, sharing a common access area. This layout reflects how Matera's Sassi evolved as dense, interwoven neighborhoods where sacred spaces, homes, and work areas often overlapped.

The complex is generally dated to the medieval period (often placed between the 11th and 13th centuries), when Matera's cave architecture supported both religious communities and everyday settlement. Over time, many rupestrian spaces in Matera shifted in function, and parts of the complex were adapted for more practical uses in later centuries.

What makes the site meaningful today is how clearly it communicates Matera’s identity: a city where architecture is carved, reused, and reinterpreted across generations. Visiting helps you read the Sassi not as “ruins,” but as a long, continuous story of habitation.

Things to See and Do in the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

If the site is open, focus on the feeling of moving from one chapel space to the next within a tight footprint. Look for differences in carved forms, altars, and the way each chamber uses light and depth; even small variations can hint at different phases of use and different devotional purposes.

Outside, slow down and treat the surrounding lanes as part of the experience. This area is rich in cave façades, stairways, and quiet corners that show how the Sassi were organized vertically, with paths and thresholds stacked into the hillside.

For context, consider joining a guided walking tour of the Sassi that includes rupestrian churches. A guide can help you connect what you're seeing here to the broader network of cave sanctuaries and to Matera's shifting history from sacred landscape to lived neighborhood.

How to Get to the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

The nearest major airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła (often the most convenient), Brindisi, and Naples; from any of these, plan onward travel to Matera by bus, train-plus-bus, or car depending on schedules. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Matera on Booking.com.

By rail, Matera is typically reached via regional connections (often involving a change from Bari), and from Matera's station you can continue on foot or by taxi/shuttle toward the Sassi area. 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 to park outside the Sassi and continue on foot, since many lanes are restricted and the historic terrain is steep and stair-heavy. 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 Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

Entrance fee: Check official website.
Opening hours: Check official website.
Best time to visit: Late morning for comfortable walking light, or late afternoon for softer shadows in the Sassi; always have a backup plan because openings can be irregular.
How long to spend: 20–40 minutes if open (longer with a guide), plus extra time to wander the surrounding lanes and viewpoints.
Accessibility: Expect uneven stone paving, steps, and narrow passages; it’s challenging for wheelchairs and can be tough with strollers.
Facilities: Facilities are limited right by the site; use cafés and restrooms in the more central Sassi routes before heading down.

Where to Stay Close to the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

Base yourself in the Sassi (Caveoso/Casalnuovo or near Civita) for the easiest early-morning and evening access on foot.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa A standout for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime cave stay with a strong sense of place and easy access to the Sassi’s main walking routes.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita Chosen for its atmospheric, heritage-forward approach to cave hospitality and its memorable setting near the heart of the old Sassi.

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel Ideal if you want classic luxury with a central position by the Duomo area, making it simple to reach both Sassi districts.

Hotel Sassi A reliable mid-range option with a great location for walking itineraries, balancing comfort and convenience without overcomplicating logistics.

Pianelle Resort Included for its calm, well-regarded base in the Sassi and its good access to scenic lanes where you can explore before day-trippers arrive.

Is the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio Worth Visiting?

Yes, it’s worth visiting if you’re exploring the Sassi on foot and want a compact, meaningful example of Matera’s rupestrian religious heritage. Even on a short itinerary, it adds depth: you’re not just looking at cave homes, you’re seeing how worship spaces were carved into the same stone fabric.

Honest Pivot: if you have limited time and the site is closed (which reviews suggest can happen), don't force it. Instead, prioritize a reliably open rupestrian church or museum in Matera and treat this area as a scenic walk-by, focusing on viewpoints and the surrounding cave architecture.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (60)

Reviews are generally positive about the atmosphere and the uniqueness of the spot, with visitors calling it memorable and worth a stop. A recurring highlight is the surrounding Sassi area, where nearby caves and lanes add to the experience even if you don’t go inside. The most common downside is access: multiple recent reviewers report finding it closed or under renovation, so it’s best approached with a flexible plan and a backup nearby.

Alt Narrative

6 years ago

"Arrived today, was closed at 3pm. Worth checking out the surrounding area though, there are some old abandoned caves down here."

journalista

a year ago

"Currently the whole place is closed and is under renovations by the look of it."

Peter Davis

6 years ago

"Amazing spot. Worth visiting."

For Different Travelers

The Convicinio di Sant'Antonio can fit many itineraries, but it works best for travelers who enjoy slow exploration and don't mind adapting plans. Because access can be inconsistent, think of it as a high-reward stop that's easiest to enjoy when paired with nearby Sassi sights.

Families with Kids

Kids who like “cave exploring” often enjoy the atmosphere of the Sassi around the site, especially the stairways and carved façades nearby. Keep expectations flexible: if the interior is closed, the walk itself can still be fun.

Plan for frequent breaks and keep little hands close on steep steps and uneven stone. If you’re traveling with a stroller, consider a carrier for this part of the Sassi.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

This is a great add-on for couples doing a golden-hour walk through the Sassi, when the stone glows and the lanes quiet down. The surrounding area feels intimate and cinematic, even without a long “checklist” of things to do.

If you want a more romantic experience, pair it with a viewpoint over the Gravina and a reservation at a Sassi restaurant afterward. The best moments here come from lingering rather than rushing.

Budget Travelers

It’s a strong budget-friendly stop because the surrounding Sassi streets are free to explore and rewarding on their own. If the site is open and ticketed, it’s typically a small add-on compared with bigger attractions.

To keep costs down, build a self-guided walking loop through the Sassi and choose one paid interior (museum or rupestrian church) as your “anchor” visit. Then treat places like this as flexible bonuses.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how the complex illustrates Matera’s layered use of space: sacred, communal, and practical functions all carved into the same rock environment. It’s a small site, but it can spark big questions about medieval settlement patterns and devotional life.

To get more from the visit, go with a guide who can point out architectural clues and explain how rupestrian churches fit into Matera’s broader religious landscape. Context turns a quick look into a memorable lesson.

FAQs for Visiting Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

Getting There

Yes, but expect steep sections and stairs once you enter the Sassi. Wear shoes with good grip for stone paving.

A taxi can get you close to the Sassi access points, but the final approach is usually on foot. Ask to be dropped at a convenient Sassi entry for your planned walking route.

Parking is limited in the Sassi itself, so use designated lots outside the restricted lanes. From there, continue on foot.

Tickets & Entry

Usually not, but openings can be irregular, so planning a backup attraction is smart. If you’re on a guided tour, entry logistics may be handled for you.

Sometimes rupestrian sites are grouped under local circuits depending on management at the time. Check locally once in Matera if you’re buying a multi-site ticket.

Shift to exploring the surrounding lanes and viewpoints, then visit another rupestrian church that’s open. Matera rewards flexible routing.

Visiting Experience

No, it’s typically a short, focused stop, especially if you’re moving through the Sassi on foot. Many travelers treat it as part of a broader walking loop.

Pay attention to the carved layout and how adjacent chapel spaces relate to each other. The “cluster” feeling is the main takeaway.

Stone steps can get slippery, so take extra care. If rain is heavy, prioritize indoor museums and return to the Sassi walk when conditions improve.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes if you want deeper context on rupestrian churches and Sassi life. A guide helps you notice details you’d otherwise walk past.

Combine it with a Sassi walking route and one major interior visit (museum or a well-known rupestrian church). Keep this as a flexible stop depending on access.

Yes, and many people do. Just be ready to adjust if you find it closed.

Photography

Yes, especially for textures, doorways, and the surrounding carved streets. The best shots often come from the approach and nearby lanes.

Late afternoon often gives softer light on the stone and more atmosphere in the Sassi. Early morning can be quieter with fewer people.

Rules can vary by site management and whether the interior is open. If you’re carrying one, be prepared to keep it minimal and out of the way.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally no, due to steps, slopes, and uneven surfaces typical of the Sassi. Consider viewpoints and accessible museums for a smoother experience.

Usually not right at the complex. Plan to use facilities at cafés or larger attractions before heading deeper into the Sassi.

Limited, and shade depends on the time of day and narrow lanes. Build in café stops for comfort.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, in the broader Sassi area, though options thin out in quieter lanes. It’s easiest to plan breaks along the main pedestrian routes.

Yes, and it’s a good idea, especially in warmer months. Carry water since the walking can be more strenuous than it looks on a map.

Look for viewpoints toward the Gravina ravine and the opposite rock face. A short pause there often becomes a highlight.

Safety & Timing

Matera is generally comfortable for evening walks in busy areas, but the Sassi can be dim and uneven. Stick to well-lit routes and watch your footing.

Early morning is best for quiet lanes and cleaner photos. Midday can be busier on main Sassi paths.

Unexpected closures or limited access. Keep your plan flexible and have a nearby alternative ready.

Nearby Attractions to the Convicinio di Sant’Antonio

Casa Grotta nei Sassi: A furnished cave dwelling that helps you visualize everyday life in the Sassi.
Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Lucia alle Malve: A well-known rupestrian church with a strong sense of Matera’s carved sacred spaces.
Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli: A classic viewpoint for wide panoramas over the Sassi.
Cattedrale di Matera (Duomo): Matera's cathedral area is a natural next stop for architecture and city views.
Parco della Murgia Materana viewpoints: Across the ravine, trails and lookouts offer dramatic perspectives back toward Matera.

The Convicinio di Sant'Antonio appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Matera!

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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