A palazzo in Italy is a grand town house or small palace, and the name Palazzo degli Abati suggests a stay in a building with some history behind it. The words degli Abati refer to abbots, a hint that the name draws on a link with a religious house or an abbot's family, as is common in historic Italian towns. Matera has plenty of old buildings of this kind, with thick stone walls, arched doorways and vaulted ceilings, and staying in one is a way to experience the city's heritage without sleeping in a cave. Because the information available here is limited to the name, check the details of the building, its rooms and its setting when you book rather than relying on assumptions. For many travellers a historic palazzo stay offers a good balance. You get character, stone and atmosphere, but usually with more conventional comfort than an adapted cave dwelling, and often at a moderate price. It tends to appeal to couples, history lovers and anyone who wants Matera to feel different from a standard chain hotel.
Old buildings come with trade-offs, and it helps to know them in advance. Thick stone walls keep rooms cool in summer, but they can feel chilly in winter and some rooms may be small or have unusual layouts. Staircases may be steep or narrow, and a lift is not guaranteed, so ask whether one is available if you have mobility needs or heavy luggage.
Ceilings, doorways and window sizes vary from room to room, which means two rooms in the same building can feel quite different. If a particular feature matters to you, such as natural light, a vaulted ceiling or a view over the rooftops, ask for it when you book.
Think about arrival. Many of Matera's historic streets are narrow, stepped or closed to ordinary traffic, and taxis may be able to reach the edge of an area but not the door. Ask the hotel for exact arrival directions, the nearest place to park and the best route on foot. If you are travelling by car, check whether parking is on site or nearby, and whether it costs extra. Pack a bag you can carry over cobbles for a short distance, and you will find arrival much easier.
A palazzo stay fits naturally with a slow itinerary. Spend your first morning on a guided walk through the Sassi, visit the cave churches and the cathedral, and keep afternoons free for rest and a long lunch. At sunset, head for the viewpoints over the ravine, then dine in the old town. Stay at least two nights if you can, confirm breakfast and cancellation terms, and book early for spring, early autumn and long weekends, when the best rooms go first.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic palazzo-style building
- ✓Matera address
- ✓Stone-built character
- ✓Check breakfast when you book
- ✓Check lift access when you book
- ✓Check parking when you book
- ✓Check air conditioning and heating
- ✓Suits couples and history lovers
Good questions
Is it a historic building?+
The name suggests a palazzo, which is a historic town house or small palace, but check the details of the building when you book.
Are there stairs?+
Older buildings often have stairs and narrow passages. Ask about lift access and the route from the street if this matters to you.
Is it a good choice for couples?+
It can be, particularly for travellers who want character and a quieter feel than a large chain hotel. Check room types and views when you book.
