Sextantio le Grotte della Civita
ItalyLocated in the UNESCO-listed Sassi of Matera, Sextantio la Grotte della Civita is a romantic hotel housed in ancient caves. Set in the oldest part of the Sassi, this Design Hotels member brings the style and sophistication of a luxury hotel to ancient grottos and an underground church.
The 18 guestrooms and suites were meticulously renovated over a ten-year period. The original stone features have been enhanced by atmospheric lighting and underfloor heating, and are complemented by wooden furniture and antique linens. Rooms have spacious en suites with walk-in showers; some feature Philippe Starck bathtubs.
The common areas sit within the ancient church, including the restaurant, which offers an Italian buffet breakfast from the former church altar to a backdrop of classical music.
There are abundant activities, from exploring the Sassi and birdwatching in the Murgia National Park, to horse riding, wine tours and tastings, and cultural and archaeological tours.
- Restaurant
- Spa treatments
- Garden
- Terrace
- Meetings and events facilities
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera
- Go bird and wildlife watching in the Murgia National Park
- Candlelit dinner in a 13th century rock-hewn church
- Cookery lessons and dinner
- Bike tours
- Night guided tour of the Sassi of Matera
- Gastronomic tours
“This is one of the most unique stays out there! Restored from decaying, abandoned ancient caves, it offers guests a new take on authentic living. Located in the oldest part of the Sassi, this Design Hotels member features an eclectic mix of ancient features and minimum-chic styling, and the common areas sit within an ancient church. Quite simply, this is an architectural masterpiece and the place to go for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
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