Matera, Basilicata
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
A cave hotel carved into the ancient Sassi di Matera — UNESCO World Heritage Site — with a 13th-century deconsecrated church, organic cuisine, and rooms in prehistoric cave dwellings.
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About Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is one of the most extraordinary hotels in the world — guest rooms carved into prehistoric cave dwellings in the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on earth. The sister property to Sextantio Albergo Diffuso in Abruzzo, this Matera outpost applies the same philosophy of faithful restoration: stone floors worn smooth by millennia of use, thick sedimentary walls bearing the marks of ancient habitation, and furnishings chosen to honour rather than disguise the caves' raw antiquity. At its heart is a 13th-century deconsecrated church — an astonishing setting for intimate wedding celebrations in a city that feels like stepping into another age entirely.
Max Guests
60
Exclusive Use
Yes
Highlights
Key Features
- UNESCO World Heritage Sassi di Matera
- Rooms in Prehistoric Cave Dwellings
- 13th-Century Deconsecrated Church On-Site
- Sextantio Brand (Design Hotels Member)
- Exclusively Local & Organic Cuisine
- Entire Hotel Available for Weddings
- Blessing Ceremonies in the Church
- Candlelit Cave Atmosphere
- Outdoor Terrace for 60 Guests
- One of the World's Most Unique Hotels
Heritage
A Living Monument to Italian History
The Sassi di Matera are ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone ravine, inhabited continuously since the Palaeolithic era. By the mid-20th century, the caves had become synonymous with poverty and were evacuated by government decree. They stood empty for decades until UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1993 began a remarkable revival.
Gallery
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita in Pictures
Spaces
Event Spaces & Capacities
| Event Space | Cocktail | Seated Dinner | Buffet | Ceremony |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13th-Century Deconsecrated Church An extraordinary 13th-century church within the cave complex, deconsecrated but retaining its sacred atmosphere. This intimate space seats up to 25 for dinner and provides a profoundly moving setting for blessing ceremonies. | - | 25 | - | 25 |
| Outdoor Terrace The terrace overlooks the dramatic ravine of the Sassi, offering outdoor dining and ceremony space for up to 60 guests with the ancient cave city as a breathtaking backdrop. | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| Cave Reception Spaces Atmospheric cave rooms within the hotel provide intimate reception and gathering spaces. The raw stone walls, candlelight, and ancient surfaces create an atmosphere unlike any other venue in Italy. | 40 | 25 | 30 | - |
Facilities
What's On-Site
Cave Rooms & Suites
Guest rooms are carved into the ancient cave dwellings, retaining original stone floors, tufa walls, and the visible traces of millennia of human habitation. Categories include Classic, Superior, Suite, and Executive Suite — each unique in form, illuminated by candlelight and natural light.
Restaurant
The chef prepares authentic Basilicata cuisine using exclusively local, organic, and sustainably farmed ingredients. Menus can be tailored for weddings, with a focus on the rich culinary traditions of southern Italy.
Experiences
Curated Experiences
- Wedding planner services
- Blessing ceremonies in the deconsecrated church
- Floral design and event styling
- Professional photography and videography
- In-room hair and makeup services
- Live music and entertainment
- Guided tours of the Sassi di Matera
- Transfer arrangements
Location
Getting Here
Address
Via Civita, 28, 75100 Matera (MT), Basilicata, Italy
Travel Times
Nearby Experiences
We're still mapping the best local spots around Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. Check back soon or ask your planner for personalised recommendations.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum wedding capacity?
Can we have a ceremony on-site?
What are the rooms like?
How do we get there?
Is the venue exclusive use for weddings?
What is the food like?
Overnight Stay
Stay Experience
A cave hotel in the UNESCO World Heritage Sassi di Matera, with rooms in prehistoric dwellings, a 13th-century church, and Design Hotels membership.
Room Inventory
Approximately 18 rooms and suites available for guest stays.
Starting Rates
Contact for rates
Signature Amenities
Get in Touch
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