Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita

About Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita in the Sassi di Matera - a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Basilicata/Puglia region - 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. The sassi (stone settlement) have been turned into 18 romantic boutique bedrooms, simply furnished, candlelit and calming. Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is a cultural project born to bring hospitality experience outside the schematics, not classifiable as "stars" and far from any traditional concept of luxury, so much so that the New York Times deemed it one of “the most extraordinary destinations in the world”, the Times “one of the ten most beautiful hotels on the international scene” and the Tatler guide of Condé Nast has included among “the one hundred most beautiful hotels on the planet”. 

Behind The Brand

What rooms/spaces do you have available for a wedding?

Our XIII Century Deconsecrated Church, now the breakfast room and meeting room, is the perfect place for exclusive events, and our terraces provide a breathtaking backdrop for an outdoor reception.

Sextantio can arrange both civil and blessing ceremonies. Our Deconsecrated Church is the perfect place for symbolic blessing ceremonies, while the Santa Lucia and Agata Convent (two minutes walking distance) are for civil ceremonies.

How many people can each of these cater for?

The Deconsecrated Church can hold a capacity of 25-30 people, perfect for intimate weddings and events.

Our outdoor terraces, facing the breathtaking view of the Murgia National Park, can accommodate a maximum of 80 people.

Do you offer onsite accommodation?

Yes. The Sextantio Albergo Diffuso Le Grotte Della Civita offers eighteen unique historic rooms – each with over 100 square meters of space.

We have room for forty guests. Accommodation is located on three levels, which are connected by staircases and terraces. Each room has access to the outside area where there are a fruit and flower garden and a view across the Murgia Park river valley with its characteristic cave churches.

The hotel rooms have been restored according to our philosophy. Internal features capture the essence of the historic setting, furniture is crafted from antique wood by local artisans, linen comes from centuries-old dowry chests and is made by hand. All rooms feature handmade soaps and modern Agape –Stark bathtubs, minimally-designed.

What additional features and facilities does your venue offer that couples may find useful?

We can assist you with organizing:

– Live music
– Flower decoration
– Photographer and videographer
– Hair and make-up artist
– Secure garage and car valet
– Babysitting
– Fireworks
– Open bar

What type of couple would fall in love with your venue and why?

Those in love with the real and unspoiled Italy, who are passionate about authenticity, life’s simplicities, food, and wine.

Editor’s Notes

Why we love it…

Refined, romantic, and beautifully rustic, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is an architectural masterpiece. Incredibly transportive, these ancient stone caves turned luxurious hotel suites are thoughtfully styled to preserve the history of the property. A soulful escape, where we love that nostalgic beauty emanates, and a sense of creativity is instilled…

For the couple…

For wanderers and romantics who seek spaces steeped in old-world beauty, who crave authentic, unique travel experiences that stir the soul. Couples looking for an unexpected yet intimate wedding venue will love this property.

Styling tips…

Exchange vows in the Deconsecrated Church. Adorn the space with clusters of pillar candles that vary in height and arrangements of locally-sourced greenery. Head outdoors for the reception and dress your tablescape with artisanal ceramics, textural linens, and hand-penned stationery.