Il Palazzotto, Matera, Italy

Matera hosts the longest-occupied cave dwellings in the Earth’s history, inhabited since prehistoric times right up until today. Aside from Petra, Jordan, Matera is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in history. Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, tourism is slowly growing and many of the caves that were once family homes have been transformed into stylish hotels and restaurants. Il Palazzotto is one of those hotels.

This unique hotel is located in the heart of "Sasso Barisano", a short walk from the historic cathedral and a 5-minute walk from the city center. Il Palazzotto is one of the few isolated structures in the historic district of "Sassi" where most other establishments are carved into the rock and look like homes piled one on top of the other. Their interiors, though, often feel cave-like.

There are 10 exclusive residences at Il Palazzotto, each one unique with history and charm and incomparable originality. Both the lounge & winery are carved out of a spectacular rock. It was the most idyllic spot to have breakfast or sit by the fire and have a glass of wine.