Ape Tour in Matera: Rolling Through History with a Twist
- Little Luxe Family Travel
- Nov 20, 2024
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring an ancient city while feeling like a cross between Indiana Jones and Mario Kart champion, then buckle up, because the Ape tour in Matera, Italy, is the ride of a lifetime!
First things first: what’s an Ape buggy, you ask? Picture a golf cart that had a wild fling with a Vespa and decided to take you on a joyride through time. This adorable three-wheeled wonder is your chariot for a whirlwind tour of Matera, the city that went from being Italy's best-kept secret to the coolest kid on the historical block.
Stop 1: Piazza San Pietro Caveoso – Where It All Begins
Our journey starts at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, the heart of Sasso Caveoso. This square is like the front porch of Matera, where you can sip on an espresso and watch history come alive. But don’t get too comfy—you’ve got a whole city to explore, and the Ape’s got places to be!
Stop 2: Piazza Duomo – The Cathedral with a View
Next, we zip over to Piazza Duomo, where you can hop out and wander through the cathedral at your own pace. It’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and maybe take a selfie that screams, “Look, Mom, I’m cultured!”
Stop 3: Sassi di Matera – The Main Event
Hold onto your hats because now we’re diving deep into the Sassi di Matera. This is where the magic happens, folks. The Sassi are ancient cave dwellings that once made Matera a “national shame,” but now they’re the pride of the city. With panoramic stops along the way, you’ll get a crash course in Matera’s glow-up from ghost town to UNESCO darling. And trust me, the view from the Ape is worth every bump in the road.
Stop 4: Chiesa di Sant'Agostino – Say Cheese!
Time for a quick stop at Chiesa di Sant'Agostino. This spot is all about the views, so make sure your camera (or your Instagram) is ready. Your guide will drop some knowledge, and you’ll drop some jaws when you see the scenery.
Stop 5: Antica Matera Casa Grotta – Home Sweet Cave
Ever wondered what it was like to live in a cave? Well, wonder no more! A visit to a typical "cave house" gives you a glimpse into life in the Sassi districts up until the 1960s. Spoiler alert: it’s cozier than you’d think but still not quite Airbnb material.
Stop 6: Chiesa Rupestre di San Pietro Barisano – Rock Solid Faith
Last but not least, we swing by Chiesa Rupestre di San Pietro Barisano, one of the largest rock churches in Matera. You can explore this ancient beauty on your own, just be careful not to lose track of time—there’s a lot to take in!
Stop 7: Piazza Duomo – And We’re Back!
Our grand tour wraps up where it began, at Piazza Duomo. By now, you’ll be feeling like a Matera pro, with a head full of history and a camera full of memories.
In just over an hour, you’ve traveled through time, explored ancient caves, and seen Matera like never before—all from the comfort of a little Ape buggy. It’s the perfect mix of fun, culture, and a dash of adventure. So, the next time you’re in Matera, don’t just walk through history—roll through it in style!
If walking is more your style, check out this 2 hour Matera walking tour.
And for an even more unique twist, check out the James Bond Matera Tour.
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