Matera, an Unesco World Heritage site.
If you have never heard of Matera before, don’t worry, many people haven’t. Though it is one of the most interesting, unusual and memorable tourist sights in Italy, located in the southern region of Basilicata. The town is a Unesco World Heritage site and known for its extensive cave dwelling districts (the Sassi). In the old days, actually until the sixties, people used to live in caves. Poverty was forcing them to make their homes in the caves until the new law made the residents move to modern buildings. Much later, the abandoned caves where interesting projects for a few men with inspiration. The Swedish-Italian entrepreneur, Daniele Kihlgren was one of them and he breathed new life into the caves, while preserving the existing architecture and local aesthetic. He managed to integrate traditional design made from local materials with a minimum of contemporary amenities, creating stunning and luxurious rooms in the oldest part of the ancient cave dwellings. All together an architectural masterpiece named “Sextatio Le Grotte Della Civita”
An Romantic and original way of spending the night
So know you know that Le Grotte Della Civia offers a unique chance to stay in rooms and suites, set in large caves right in the middle of a Unesco site. Luckily it is not only unique as well as comfortable and some aspects even match the classification of luxurious. At le Grotte Della Civita you don’t find a real restaurant, though it is possible to dine upon request on another exclusive location, in a church by candle light, in front of a fireplace with light classical music. The chef serves dishes from the local cuisine just as good as the setting. Buon appetito…. For the ones that need ultimate relaxion there is even a chance to have a massage in the small wellness cave. In the morning a rich breakfast is served with many typical organic products. Take an espresso from the bar and enjoy the view from the terrace. Your day can start!
Read more about Sextantio Le Grotte delle Civita
Nature and Culture at one site
People that adore nature and culture are at the right spot. Except for its cultural value, the hotel is located next Murgia National park, where you can do great trekkings. From the panoramic terrace, you can enjoy a great view over the park. At Sextatio Le Grotte Della Civita they offer various itineraries for both culture and nature. Of course on top of the list are the Sassi of Matera by day or by night and the Archaeological Park of Natural Rock Hewn Churches. There are over 150 rock churches in the Murgia National Park; all present different architecture and iconography. A tour or or a trek in the park means getting lost in the paths of an ancient and rocky landscape of huge charm. The area is rich of interesting historic sites. And if you are up to it, you can rent a mountain bike at reception to explore the area by yourself.
18 unique and elegantly furnished rooms (caves)
All rooms are slightly different but offer the same stunning décor. They offer incredible views of the spectacular canyon and surrounding landscape. Rooms come with a terrace, air conditioner and even though the thick walls of the cave, WiFi is facilitated throughout the hotel. Of course the bathroom is private and comes with a shower.
Read about the rooms at Sextantio Le Grotte delle Civita
