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The sassi of Matera – ancient cave dwellings carved into the soft volcanic rock – are believed to be some of the first human settlements in Italy, and are what constitutes Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. Inhabited until the 1950s, when Carlo Levi’s Christ stopped at Eboli created a national scandal and the inhabitants were relocated to more modern dwellings, they are now the location of one of Italy's alberghi diffusi. The alberghi diffusi are hotels distributed over existing buildings in the centers of Italian towns. They have a central reception area and café and are part of a community so that guests may be integrated into local life.
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Via Civita 28
Matera, Italy
Nearest Airport: BRI
We slept in caves! That's the first thing we tell people when they ask about our trip to Puglia. The rooms were so unique and beautifully outfitted. It's a real experience that we will remember always. It was also obvious that the history is so important here. The renovations have been painstakingly done to reflect how people lived in the past but definitely to a luxurious standard. Matera is a very special place, and this hotel adds to the experience. And, the breakfast was amazing; many tables of exquisite foods of all kinds. We wished we could have tried it all. We will remember this experience forever.
Tara B - Calgary, Canada
A truly amazing experience. The cave rooms are beautiful, so well appointment despite being a cave. The service is excellent and the breakfasts superb.
300freqtrav - Melbourne, Australia
The cave experience was spectacular. Once you get past the quirkiness, the millions of steps and the candles, this place is unbelievable and well worth the time and money. Excellent location in Old Matera, super friendly staff, insanely good breakfast and the most comfortable beds ever!
agirltalks - Charleston, South Carolina
Our wedding trip to Puglia was unforgettable, and we are so glad we didn’t skip visiting the Sassi di Matera. Staying at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita made the experience even more special. The service was impeccable — truly above and beyond in every way. They had everything we needed, and the location was perfect: just steps away from wonderful dining, breathtaking views, and the magic of Matera itself. Spectacular hardly does it justice. The resort is incredibly unique, blending history, beauty, and comfort in such an unforgettable way. Our visit was far too short, and we only wished we could have stayed longer.
G9553BCrebeccah
An amazing experience staying in the restored cave suite in the heart of the Sassi of Materia. A unique way to spend some time and imagine what it way have been like - all be it tempered by modern touches like electricity and water! The room was spacious and clean but definitely a cave. The staff friendly and the breakfast authentic and very good. The view across the ravine was exceptional and a great place to have an aperitif. We particularly enjoyed the private Underground Wine & Music Experience guided by Erasmo and Raphael through the historic cave system beneath their family home. The cellist was amazing and the acoustics underground very special. A real treat. The hotels objectives to maintain the heritage of the UNESCO city and to give travellers a unique experience comes at a cost but it was an exceptional experience.
Jeremy B - Bath, United Kingdom
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