Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Matera’s Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel stands as a distinguished landmark in the heart of Matera, Italy, seamlessly blending centuries-old history with contemporary luxury. Once the residence of the noble Gattini family, this palazzo—dating back as early as the 13th century—has evolved alongside Matera’s rich cultural heritage. Today, it offers guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s aristocratic past, all while enjoying refined modern comforts.

Located prominently in Piazza Duomo within Matera’s historic Civita district, Palazzo Gattini features architectural marvels such as vaulted ceilings, Renaissance frescoes, and original stonework. These elements are expertly preserved and complemented by amenities like air conditioning, elegant furnishings, and a world-class wellness spa. Guests and visitors can savor traditional Lucanian cuisine at the acclaimed Le Bubbole restaurant and take in striking panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera. The palazzo’s setting also provides convenient access to Matera Cathedral, Casa Noha, and the city’s famed cave dwellings.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or traveler seeking a luxurious stay steeped in heritage, this guide will provide detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing options, guided tours, accessibility, and practical travel tips. For the most current updates and reservations, consult the official Palazzo Gattini website and Matera’s tourism resources (Palazzo Gattini Official Website, UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Matera Tourism Office).

Discover Palazzo Gattini: A Historical Overview
Architectural Significance
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Booking
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions in Matera
Guided Tours and Special Events
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
Summary and Key Planning Points
Sources and Official Links

Discover Palazzo Gattini: A Historical Overview

Noble Origins and the Gattini Family

Palazzo Gattini is deeply rooted in Matera’s noble history. Set in the pivotal Piazza Duomo, it was originally the residence of the influential Gattini family, a lineage instrumental in shaping local governance and culture from the Middle Ages onwards. The palazzo’s earliest foundations date to the 15th or 16th century, with subsequent expansions reflecting evolving architectural styles and the family’s prominence. Heraldic symbols, including the Gattini coat of arms, can still be found throughout the property, serving as tangible links to the city’s aristocratic past (Palazzo Gattini Official Website).

Restoration and Modern Transformation

Following centuries as a private residence, Palazzo Gattini was carefully restored to become a luxury hotel, reflecting Matera’s renaissance after its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1993. Restoration projects preserved original stonework, frescoes, and historic architectural features, while integrating contemporary comforts. Today, guests can appreciate this harmonious blend of past and present (UNESCO World Heritage Centre).

Architectural Significance

Integration with Matera’s Urban Landscape

Constructed from Matera’s signature pale limestone, the palazzo’s façade and arched windows harmonize with the surrounding historic buildings of the Civita district. Notably, the hotel incorporates ancient cisterns and caves beneath its structure, now transformed into the Gattini SPA—offering visitors a unique wellness experience within chambers carved from living rock (Palazzo Gattini SPA).

Interior Design: Heritage Meets Luxury

The interiors showcase vaulted ceilings, exposed stone walls, and antique flooring, seamlessly paired with modern amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, and luxurious bathrooms. Locally sourced materials and bespoke furnishings echo Matera’s artistic traditions, creating an inviting atmosphere that bridges centuries (Palazzo Gattini Rooms).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Booking

Visiting Hours

Hotel and public spaces: Generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Gattini SPA: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
For the latest and most accurate times, check the official website or contact the hotel.

Tickets and Booking

Hotel Guests: Book accommodations directly via the official website or authorized travel platforms. Guests have access to all hotel facilities.
Non-Guests: Certain areas such as the restaurant, spa, and guided tours are accessible by reservation and may incur additional charges. There is no general admission fee for visiting the palazzo itself.
Tours and SPA: Advance booking is recommended for guided tours and spa treatments. See the official website for details.

COVID-19 Protocols

The hotel adheres to local health regulations, including enhanced cleaning, social distancing, and mask requirements where applicable. Please consult official updates prior to your visit.

Travel Tips and Accessibility

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October): Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Getting There

Location: Piazza Duomo, 13/14, 75100 Matera, Italy.
By Car: Parking is available at a partner car park with valet service; hotel is within a restricted traffic zone (ZTL)—coordinate with staff for luggage drop-off.
By Train: Matera Centrale Station connects with Bari via the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) line.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), about 65 km from Matera.

Accessibility

Mobility: Recent renovations have added elevators and ramps for guests with accessibility needs. Some uneven, historic areas remain; contact the hotel for specific accommodations.

Nearby Attractions in Matera

Matera Cathedral: 13th-century Apulian Romanesque masterpiece adjacent to the hotel.
Sassi di Matera: Ancient cave dwellings and churches—UNESCO World Heritage Site—within minutes on foot.
Casa Noha: Multimedia introduction to Matera’s history, a short walk from the palazzo.
MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera): Located about 500 meters away.
Palombaro Lungo: Underground cistern beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Available on request through the hotel for the palazzo, Sassi di Matera, and other monuments. Tours provide in-depth historical context and access to hidden gems.
Special Events: The hotel periodically hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and private gatherings in its historic halls. Inquire in advance for schedules and availability.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Atmosphere and Design

Palazzo Gattini offers a refined ambiance, with interiors featuring Mazzaro limestone, original vaulted ceilings, and period frescoes. Each of the 20 rooms and suites is uniquely decorated, some with private terraces and panoramic views.

Amenities

SPA: Located in ancient cisterns, offers a thermal pool, Turkish bath, aromatherapy, and relaxation zones. Access is for guests aged 14+ and requires reservation (Booking.com).
Dining: Le Bubbole Restaurant serves regional Basilicata cuisine, including terrace dining in summer (Palazzo Gattini Restaurant).
Lounge Bar: Cocktails and light fare in a stylish setting.
Business Facilities: Banquet and meeting spaces available.
Concierge: Arranges tours, hiking, cycling, and more.

Guest Experience

Palazzo Gattini consistently earns high marks for its prime location, attentive staff, and luxurious accommodations. Guests praise the tranquility, comfort, and personalized service (Booking.com).

Practical Tips

Check-in: From 3:00 PM; check-out by 11:00 AM.
Footwear: Bring comfortable shoes for Matera’s uneven streets.
Parking & Luggage: Coordinate with the hotel due to the ZTL.
Spa & Dining: Reserve in advance, especially during peak periods.
Children: Family-friendly, though spa access is limited to those 14+.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are guided tours available at Palazzo Gattini?
A: Yes, inquire at reception or via the official website for options and reservations.

Q: Can non-guests access the Gattini SPA?
A: Non-guests are welcome by reservation, subject to availability.

Q: Is the hotel suitable for families?
A: Families are welcome; spa access is restricted to ages 14 and up.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Contact the hotel directly to confirm pet policy.

Q: What accessibility options are available?
A: Modern renovations have improved accessibility; contact the hotel for specific needs.

Q: Are there entrance fees for nearby attractions?
A: Sassi di Matera is free to explore; guided tours, Casa Noha, and MUSMA have separate ticket fees.

Plan Your Visit

Official Information & Reservations:
Palazzo Gattini Official Website
Booking.com - Palazzo Gattini
Matera Tourism Office
UNESCO World Heritage – Sassi di Matera
Tips:
- Book tours and dining in advance, especially during high season.
- Download the Audiala app for audio tours and updates.
- Use local transport or walk, as car access is limited in the historic center.

Summary and Key Planning Points

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it is a gateway to Matera’s noble legacy and architectural splendor. With its prime setting by the Piazza Duomo and the Sassi di Matera, guests are steps away from the city’s most celebrated sites. The hotel’s meticulous restoration preserves its historical essence while offering modern luxury—sumptuous suites, a unique spa, and regional dining experiences.

Plan your visit to enjoy guided tours, cultural events, and the best of southern Italy’s heritage. For practical details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and local insights, consult the official Palazzo Gattini website and Matera’s tourism portals. Enhance your trip with the Audiala mobile app for audio guides and insider tips (Palazzo Gattini Official Website, Matera Tourism Office, UNESCO World Heritage Centre).