Trail 406 and the Suspension Footbridge over the Ravine

Trail 406 crosses on foot the ravine that separates Matera from the Murgia: it leaves from Porta Pistola, in the Sasso Caveoso, goes down to the bottom of the Gravina, crosses the stream by a suspension footbridge of about 70 metres and climbs to the plateau, with the caves and rock churches opposite the city. It is about 6 km and about two hours. Since 2026 it has its own ticket: €10 from November to March and €15 from April to October.

The route step by step

1. Porta Pistola. The trail begins on Via Madonna delle Virtù, at the foot of the Sasso Caveoso. Here is the park checkpoint, staffed since 2026, where the ticket is checked.
2. Descent to the Gravina. You go down a stone path with steps to the bottom of the ravine. The perspective changes: the Sassi are above you, hanging on the wall.
3. The suspension footbridge. You cross the Gravina stream by a bridge of about 70 metres suspended over the riverbed. Cross following the park staff's instructions.
4. Climb to the Murgia. On the other side you climb the slope, between dug-out caves and small rock churches. It is the most tiring stretch, with a gradient and direct sun.
5. The plateau. At the top you reach the Murgia Timone area, with the viewpoint over the Sassi, and continue to the Jazzo Gattini visitor centre, where the itinerary ends.

To return, retrace the path through the ravine: the visitor centre is on the plateau, far from the city on foot by road.

Tickets

Since 2026 access to the trail is paid and controlled by the park. The 406 ticket costs €15 from 1 April to 31 October and €10 from 1 November to 31 March, with reductions for some categories. It is different from the Murgia Timone ticket: see what each includes on the Murgia tickets page.

Difficulty

It is not technical, but it is demanding for anyone not used to it: a steep descent with uneven steps, the footbridge, and a continuous climb on the other side. The polished limestone is very slippery, especially when damp. With hiking footwear and good fitness it is a great morning; with smooth-soled trainers, no.

When to go

In spring and autumn, in the morning. In summer the bottom of the ravine and the climb to the Murgia have no shade and the stone stores heat: set out very early or do not do it. After heavy rain, ask at Porta Pistola before going down to the stream.

Water and what to bring

There are no fountains or facilities until the visitor centre. Bring at least a litre and a half of water per person, a cap, sun cream and something to eat. A walking pole helps on the descent.

With children or a dog

For teenagers used to walking it is an adventure: they love the suspension footbridge. With small children it is long and the descent has high steps; for them it is better to reach the viewpoint by car via Jazzo Gattini. It is not suitable for pushchairs.

Getting to Porta Pistola

On foot from the Sassi: go down through the Caveoso to Via Madonna delle Virtù, at the edge of the Gravina. You cannot arrive by car, because the Sassi are a limited traffic zone.