Sextantio Le Grotte DellaCivita
Built into the ancient limestone caves of Matera's Sassi district, Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita occupies a XIII century structure carved directly into the rock face.
- Guests
- 20–60
- Nearest airport
- BRI · 1 hour
- Open season
- June – September
- Price range
- $$$
- Google rating
- 4.8 /5 · 605
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita is a hotel destination wedding venue in Matera, Italy, hosting 20 to 60 guests in the $$$ price range, reached from Bari International Airport (BRI), 1 hour. Best months: June, July, August, September.
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita in Matera, open June–September.
Built into the ancient limestone caves of Matera's Sassi district, Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita occupies a XIII century structure carved directly into the rock face.
The hotel preserves its original monastic character while offering modern comfort, with a deconsecrated church on-site for ceremonies and a series of panoramic terraces overlooking the UNESCO-listed old town.
Weddings here operate on a fully exclusive basis, meaning you and your guests have complete privacy across all 24 rooms and outdoor spaces.
Absolutely wonderful hotel in a perfect location in Matera. Staying in one of the original (now restored) caves was a truly special experience. On top of that Sextantio is just such a luxurious and wonderful place. I don‘t think I have ever stayed in a more unique and at the same time luxurious place. The beds are extremely comfortable, the caves are super clean and despite them being a cave have all the amenities one could ask for - in our case (cave no. 3) we even had a huge bathtub. The staff is incredibly attentive and simply wonderful and you can really feel that they are proud of the beautiful space they have created. Upon arrival we even got a short tour of the property including an introduction to the history of the place. The breakfast buffet was the best I ever had in a hotel. All the cheeses you can dream of (Burrata, Ricotta, Pecorino…) a wide selection of fresh and delicious local fruit, homemade focaccias and breads, cakes, eggs and so much more. And Brunella and Sara and all of the team (who make all the delicious food themselves!) are just the cherry on top - they made us feel like family. I definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Matera! PS: Since this was mentioned in few reviews: we did not find the caves too dark nor were they damp. They were indirectly lit and it was very pleasant to sleep in them - and you can always ask for more lights. However, if one wants daylight, hardwood floors and a view, staying in a cave is obviously not the right choice.
4 notes on the house.
Full hotel exclusivity: 24 rooms, three terraced viewpoints, and a 13th-century stone church reserved entirely for your event
Rock-hewn architecture: bedrooms and gathering spaces carved directly into Matera's famous calcareous caves
Indoor backup ceremony space: a restored deconsecrated church provides weather protection without sacrificing atmosphere
Flexible catering model: open supplier policy allows you to bring your own vendors or use recommended partners
Best held in June, July, August.
The months the weather — and the local rhythm — is kindest to a stay at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita.
Check availability.
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How the weekend usually runs.
Yours will be different — nothing below is required. Every planning begins with the three meals you most want to eat, and builds outward.
- 15:00–18:00Guest arrival and check-in at the hotel; welcome drinks on the panoramic terraces with views of the Sassi
- 19:30–22:00Welcome dinner in one of the cave chambers or terrace, featuring local Basilicata cuisine
- 10:00Civil ceremony at the nearby monastery (5-minute walk)
Things worth knowing.
BRI · 1 hour
Guests fly into Bari International Airport.
€36,000
The venue does not offer fixed packages. Pricing is tailor-made based on guest count, dates, and services. Contact the hotel directly for a custom proposal.
Included in nightly rate
A one-time licence and setup fee, paid to the venue.
Custom catering quotes available; open supplier policy allows external vendors / head
A seated dinner with wine and service, by headcount.
€12,000 / night
A standard room in the wedding window. Group rates on request.
June – September
4 viable months. Shoulder dates soften the light and the rates.
Figures are estimates, modeled from regional rates and public sources — not a quote from the house. Once the venue claims this page, their own rates take precedence.
Asked along the way.
Can we bring our own caterer and florist?+
Yes. The venue operates an open supplier policy, so you may hire external vendors. They can also recommend trusted local partners if preferred.
What happens if it rains?+
The deconsecrated church on the property serves as a romantic indoor ceremony space. Additional covered areas on the terraces provide weather protection for receptions.
How many guests can we accommodate?+
The venue is designed for 40–60 guests maximum, with on-site accommodation for up to 40. This ensures an intimate gathering with adequate sleeping capacity.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?+
No. The property's ancient cave structure and stone architecture are not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the hotel directly to discuss individual needs.
Can we hold our civil ceremony at the venue?+
Civil ceremonies take place at a monastery 5 minutes' walk away. The on-site church is available for religious or symbolic ceremonies.
What is the minimum stay requirement?+
A two-night minimum applies during peak season (April–October). Off-season terms may vary; contact the hotel for details.
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