An Italian Delight

A Hilltop Sanctuary

The infinity pool and adjacent sunbathing and alfresco dining areas create a resort-like atmosphere.

Located in an area of Italy occupied since prehistoric times, this estate is a luxurious modern marvel

By Phil Butler

High on a hilltop in southern italy is a delightful masseria—Italian for substantial farmhouse—set in the center of a picturesque 8.4-acre estate offering 360-degree views of the marvelous surrounding countryside. From the terraces of the three-bedroom, three-bath, 2,615-squarefoot home, owners and guests enjoy spectacular views wherever they may gaze.

Designed by Massimo Acito, the residence features exquisite marble floors, vaulted ceilings, French doors, and arched doorways. At the center of the welcoming living spaces, a practical chef’s kitchen is equipped with Philippe Starck and Grohe fixtures, a glass-top dining table, Lady Cucine cabinetry, and Siemens appliances.

Outside, an infinity edge pool adjoins large south- and west-facing terraces with stone cloisters, numerous shaded pergola seating areas, and a summer kitchen with a bar and a stone pizza oven. The terraces are accented by manicured lawns, gardens, and olive trees, all overlooking breathtaking panoramas. Notable and practical features include a six-kilowatt solar power system, a rainwater storage system, and a garage.

(Above) French doors provide easy access to manicured lawns, well-designed terraces, and the pool/entertainment area. (Top Right) The very airy master bedroom exudes serenity, inspired by the flowing hillsides and fields that surround the property. (Right) An aerial view reveals the estate’s very private location, surrounded by olive and citrus groves.

The estate is located outside of the UNESCO city of Matera, the oldest in Europe, which was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Set in the Basilicata region, this area is an archeologist’s dream, renowned for cave dwellings discovered near the Gravina River that indicate the countryside has been inhabited for approximately 9,000 years.

Matera offers a plethora of opportunities for enthusiasts of fine food, history, and even movie trivia; parts of the James Bond film “No Time to Die” were filmed there, including a scene in which Bond dives off the town’s Roman-era bridge. After a 007-worthy, Michelin five-star meal in Matera, wineries, citrus and olive groves, and the world-class beaches of the Ionian coast are but a short drive away.

The property is scheduled for auction in November via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions in cooperation with Gemma Bruce of The Viewing, with bidding taking place via the firm’s digital marketplace.

Phil Butler is a publisher, editor, author, and analyst who is a widely cited expert on subjects ranging from digital and social media to travel technology.

MASSERIA MIMOSA MATERA, ITALY $1,381,000

• 3 BEDROOMS • 3 BATHS • 2,615 SQUARE FEET • 8.4 ACRES

KEY FEATURES • PRIVATE ESTATE • IDYLLIC LOCATION • PANORAMIC VIEWS • INFINITY POOL

AGENT SOTHEBY’S CONCIERGE AUCTIONS OLGA PAPOUI PROJECT MANAGER FOR SOTHEBY’S CONCIERGE AUCTION OLGA.PAPOUI@ CASOTHEBYS.COM