Palombaro Lungo
About
Palombaro Lungo – the great cistern of Matera – is a monumental water‑storage complex built in 1832 atop Piazza Vittorio Veneto in the historic center of Matera, Italy. Carved into the limestone walls of one of the city’s famous Sassi, it represents the most impressive engineering feat of the 19th‑century and was once the main source of water for both the Sassi and the new town. With vaulted chambers over fifteen metres high and solid stone pillars carved from the bedrock, the cistern can be navigated by boat and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the scale of this underground cathedral. Visitors can walk through its long corridors, observe the finely cut stone, and learn about the ingenious water‑harvesting system that supplied the city for centuries. The cistern is open to the public free of charge during daylight hours, with no admission fee or booking required. The Palombaro Lungo is part of Matera’s UNESCO World Heritage Site designation and serves as a key attraction for those interested in architecture, history, and the urban heritage of the Sassi. Its visibility from the street makes it an iconic landmark for both locals and tourists.
Highlights
- Palombaro Lungo Cistern
Must-See Areas
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At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes