Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita

New to Long Travel, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is a unique cave hotel located in Matera. Experience an incredible atmosphere evoking the cultural and human history of the Sassi of Matera.   

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is a unique hotel in the Sassi di  Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the  Basilicata region and is the most extreme expression of a Historical Minor Heritage. A heritage, which represents the almost paradigmatic expression of this Minor History, marked by rocky caves, inhabited until the first years of the fifties.

Le Grotte della Civita is placed in the oldest part of the Sassi, ( a stunning and well-preserved example of a village where hundreds of caves were turned into dwellings, churches and palaces) and faces the spectacular Murgia park and its rock-hewn churches. 

The 18 caves have been restored through a careful and conservative process conducted with the utmost respect for the local cultural heritage. Each cave reveals its original shape and materials. The hotel’s interior design, the respectful and minimalistic approach of Sextantio is reflected in the plain furniture elements.

The guests will experience a particular atmosphere evoking the cultural and human history of the Sassi of Matera

In the morning, breakfast is served in the XIII Century Cave Church. Cakes, pasties, biscuits and cookies, marmalades, cheeses and salumi are for the most part produced in a local organic farm nearby or hailing from trusted artisan producers in the near vicinity.

At Sextantio Albergo Diffuso Le Grotte della Civita it’s possible to dine, upon request.

The evocative scenario of the location is unique: a deconsecrated church, lit solely by candles, with background classical music and a lit fireplace. The exclusive location, therefore, transforms into a fantastical place where guests can enjoy the Chef’s passion and local cuisine.

Local wines, or tisanes, teas, taralli crackers and snacks are instead the key ingredients for a typical aperitivo, or a time to relax in the mystical setting of the church or the terrace with sweeping views of the dramatic Murgia Materana.

There is nothing better that finding peace of mind and body and totally relaxing with a massage treatment within your own cave dwelling. In an environment rich in history and atmosphere, with a soft new age musical background, perfumed oils, herbal teas and many flickering candles, mind and body will be surely regenerated.

Expert masseurs will advise on the most suitable treatment among reiki, deep connective tissue, endolymphatic, draining, couple, antistress or relaxant

Sleeping in the Sassi of Matera is truly a unique experience!