Sasso Barisano

The Sasso Barisano of Matera represents one of the two main historic districts of the city, along with the Sasso Caveoso. This neighborhood is an extraordinary example of troglodytic architecture, with its houses carved into the limestone rock and its winding alleys that tell centuries of history and daily life. The origin of the Sasso Barisano dates back to prehistoric times, but it is during the Middle Ages that the neighborhood takes on the conformation that we know today. The houses, churches, and palaces were carved directly into the rock, creating a unique urban landscape. The terrain and the skill of the inhabitants in exploiting the natural characteristics of the area allowed the construction of a real underground village, which develops on multiple levels and offers a fascinating play of light and shadow. Walking through the Sasso Barisano, one feels like taking a journey back in time. Narrow alleys, stairs carved into the stone, and small squares alternate with caves used as dwellings, stables, and warehouses. Many of the buildings in the neighborhood still retain the original architectural elements, such as stone portals, arched windows, and carved chimneys. The cave houses, often spread over multiple levels, offer an extraordinary example of architecture adapted to the needs of daily life. One of the most fascinating elements of the Sasso Barisano is the presence of numerous rock churches, a testimony to the deep religiousness that has characterized the life of the inhabitants of Matera over the centuries. Among these, stand out the Church of San Pietro Barisano, the Church of Sant’Agostino, and the Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve. These churches, carved into the rock and decorated with medieval frescoes, represent an artistic and cultural heritage of inestimable value. The Church of San Pietro Barisano, in particular, is the largest rock church in Matera. Originally built in the 12th century, the church has undergone numerous expansions and modifications over the centuries. The interior of the church, with its three naves and numerous side chapels, is decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the saints. The underlying crypt, used as an ossuary, adds an additional element of mystery and charm to this extraordinary place of worship. The Sasso Barisano is not only an open-air museum but also a lively and vital neighborhood. In recent decades, thanks to numerous restoration and redevelopment projects, many of the ancient cave houses have been transformed into modern residences, boutique hotels, restaurants, and artisan shops. This process of rebirth has allowed the preservation of the historical and cultural heritage of the neighborhood, integrating it with the needs of contemporary life. One of the most interesting aspects of the Sasso Barisano is its ability to combine tradition and innovation. The ancient construction techniques, based on the use of local stone and the skillful management of water resources, have been reinterpreted in a modern key to create comfortable and sustainable living spaces. Many of the restored buildings are equipped with natural heating and cooling systems, which exploit the thermal properties of the rock to ensure an optimal indoor climate in every season. A visit to the Sasso Barisano also offers the opportunity to discover the artisanal and culinary traditions of Matera. The artisan shops in the neighborhood produce ceramics, textiles, and stone objects using ancient techniques, while the restaurants and trattorias offer typical dishes of Lucanian cuisine, prepared with local and seasonal ingredients. Among the dishes not to be missed are the “crapiata,” a soup of legumes and cereals, and the famous bread of Matera, a naturally leavened bread baked in a wood-fired oven.