In the heart of Southern Italy's ancient landscape, a remarkable fusion of history and luxury has emerged. The Vetera Matera hotel offers a distinctive experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the timeless allure of a UNESCO World Heritage site while enjoying the highest standards of modern comfort. This establishment stands as a testament to meticulous restoration and a deep respect for local heritage, promising an unforgettable escape into the captivating world of Matera's cave dwellings.
A Chronicle of Elegance: The Vetera Matera Experience
Opened its doors on April 12, 2025, the Vetera Matera, an 'albergo diffuso' — a hotel with accommodations distributed across various buildings — is majestically situated in the Rione Vetera district of Southern Italy's Matera. This extraordinary five-star property, sculpted directly into the ancient 'sassi' (rocks), is a proud addition to the esteemed Relais & Châteaux family. This prestigious affiliation underscores its commitment to exceptional hospitality, the preservation of local culture, culinary traditions, and adherence to rigorous UNESCO-approved sustainability initiatives. The Bellevue Group, a renowned hospitality entity, owns this captivating establishment.
The journey of Vetera Matera's creation involved an extensive eight-year pre-opening phase dedicated to the respectful restoration of its troglodyte origins. This commitment to authenticity extends to its culinary offerings at Artema, the hotel's on-site restaurant. Under the guidance of Naples-born Chef Eduardo Estatico, Artema presents a menu celebrating the rich flavors of Basilicata. Leveraging fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the Puglia and Basilicata regions, Chef Estatico crafts innovative dishes rooted in Lucanian cooking traditions. From savory glazed salmon to the tender Podolica beef fillet, and delightful Matera-style tiramisu, each meal is a gastronomic delight. Breakfast, served buffet-style with à la carte options, invites guests to savor local cheeses and the famous Matera sourdough bread.
For those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation, Elysium, the hotel's subterranean spa, offers a sanctuary carved into thousand-year-old rock. This expansive wellness center features three massage rooms, including one specifically for couples and another for the unique Zerobody floating treatment. Guests can indulge in rain showers infused with essential oils, a traditional hammam steam bath, and a Finnish-style sauna. Distinctive features like the calidarium, a hot tub with hydro-massage jets, and the frigidarium, a refreshing cold plunge pool, enhance the spa experience. A variety of treatments, from the invigorating Vetera Ritual to the restorative Thai Herbal Massage, are available, ensuring profound relaxation. The spa operates from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with reservations highly recommended.
The hotel boasts 23 spacious rooms and eight suites, each uniquely designed within the tuff stone, reflecting the natural cave environment. Soft earthy tones, terracotta flooring, and stone-tiled bathrooms complement the original pockmarking of the walls, creating a harmonious blend of rustic charm and refined elegance. The multi-level Hypogeal suites offer vast underground living with vaulted ceilings, separate sleeping and lounge areas, and private hot tubs. Alternatively, the Noble suites provide airy, above-ground spaces with terraces overlooking the breathtaking city. Rates for these exceptional accommodations begin at $344 per night.
Visitors can easily reach Matera by train, with Matera Centrale station just a 15-minute walk from the hotel. For air travelers, the closest airport is in Bari, approximately an hour northeast of Vetera Matera. While direct flights from the U.S. are seasonal, numerous one-stop options are available. The hotel can arrange shuttle services from the airport, or guests can opt for car rentals or taxis. The optimal time to visit Matera and experience its pleasant climate, with most attractions fully operational, is typically during May, June, September, or October.
The emergence of Vetera Matera presents a fascinating paradigm in the hospitality industry. It exemplifies how historical preservation can seamlessly intertwine with modern luxury, creating not just a place to stay, but a profound cultural and sensory experience. This unique approach challenges the conventional understanding of hotel design, demonstrating that ancient structures can be reimagined to offer contemporary comforts without compromising their inherent character. For future travelers and developers, Vetera Matera serves as an inspiring blueprint, highlighting the potential for sustainable tourism that respects heritage while embracing innovation. It underscores the idea that true luxury lies not merely in opulence, but in authentic, meaningful connections to a destination's past and present.