Palombaro lungo
Attraction
4.5 (9337 reviews)
Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
+39 339 363 8332
Did You Know?
Carved in the 19th Century
The Palombaro Lungo, a massive cistern in Matera, was carved out of the stone in the 1800s to serve the growing population of the new city.
Abandoned in the 20th Century
The Palombaro Lungo provided drinking water until the 1920s, when it was abandoned and forgotten.
Explore the Cavernous Space
Today, guided tours are offered daily in English and Italian, allowing visitors to explore this cavernous space.
Hidden Beneath the Square
The Palombaro Lungo is hidden beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a testament to Matera's unique underground architecture.
Highlights from Reviews
• impressive engineering
Visitors are consistently impressed by the ancient engineering feat of the massive cistern, highlighting its scale and historical significance in water storage.
• escape from heat
The cistern provides a cool, dark, and refreshing refuge from the heat, making it a particularly appreciated stop on hot days.
• affordable entry
The 3 euro entry fee is widely considered affordable and good value for money, especially given the unique experience offered.
• historical insight
The site offers a valuable glimpse into how people lived and survived in Matera, showcasing essential aspects of the city's history and infrastructure.
• beautiful lighting
The colored lighting inside adds to the spectacle, enhancing the already impressive heights and depths of the 'water cathedral'.
Featured in
Matera: A Pocket Guide to This Popular Italian Destination
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