Locanda di San Martino

Locanda di San Martino occupies a converted sassi complex on Via Fiorentini in Matera's Sasso Barisano quarter, the northern cave district that curves around the ridge above the Gravina ravine. The property is about 600 metres from Piazza Vittorio Veneto and roughly 1.2 kilometres from Matera Centrale railway station. The Sasso Barisano's alleyways and stairways are less steep than those of the Caveoso, making the location relatively accessible among the cave-district hotels.

The structure integrates multiple levels of ancient sassi caverns into a single hospitality complex. Original tufa stone walls, arched ceilings, and carved alcoves give the rooms their character; no two units are the same shape, as the accommodation follows the natural geometry of the rock. Standard cave rooms are compact and traditionally finished; superior rooms and deluxe suites offer more space and in some cases private terraces or superior rock formations. The property sits in the luxury category despite its moderate pricing relative to Matera's most famous cave hotels, reflecting the authenticity of the restoration and the quality of the wine programme.

The most distinctive amenity at Locanda di San Martino is the underground cave pool, carved entirely out of tufa stone—one of very few hotels in Matera to offer a pool set within the rock itself. It is seasonal (typically May through September) and access is for hotel guests only. The wine cellar beneath the property holds a serious selection of Basilicata and southern Italian labels, with Aglianico del Vulture represented by multiple producers. The restaurant serves a regional menu at dinner; breakfast is included in most rates.

A terrace provides outdoor seating and partial views over the Sasso Barisano. The staff orientation is towards couples and independent travellers interested in Matera's cultural and culinary heritage, and the team can arrange rupestrian church visits, Murgia Materana excursions, and Lucanian wine tastings.