The Sassi are further enriched by the charm of the rock churches, mystical places where religiosity has determined the evolution of human life, lived in environments carved into the rock, often equipped with refined architectural decorations and fascinating frescoes with elements of oriental art.
In the two districts of the Sassi, Caveoso and Barisano, it is possible to visit many rock churches characterized by different peculiarities: from the grandeur of San Pietro Barisano, often used for musical concerts to the variety and richness in the iconography of Santa Lucia alle Malve.
Of great charm and charm, the rock complex of Convicinio di Sant’Antonio welcomes visitors through an elegant portal that leads into a rectangular courtyard, overlooked by four churches with different characteristics. The Sasso Caveoso dominates the Monterrone rocky boulder, inside which there are the churches of Santa Maria de Idris and San Giovanni, which form, through an internal tunnel, a single church complex. Characterized by a masonry facade softened by pointed arches and pilasters is the church of Santa Maria de Armenis, currently home to interesting art exhibitions.
A small jewel of Matera rock art is offered by the church of Santa Barbara, rich in precious frescoes and characterized by the original iconostasis. A visit to the rupestrian complex of Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci is required, where, in the suggestive spaces dug out of the rock, an exhibition of international sculpture that has already been exhibited is hosted by the members of the La Scaletta cultural club. in previous editions, the works of great artists such as Artuto Martini, Duilio Cambellotti and Pericle Fazzini.