Basilicata International Award in the pearl of Tyrrhenian Sea: Marateale is a film festival organized by Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo and known as Premio Internazionale Basilicata. A week of programming with previews, events, masterclasses and meetings with authors to deepen the many themes that run through a film, a character, an idea. The event is held in the amphitheater of the prestigious Santavenere Hotel and other locations in Maratea and across Basilicata and Calabria regions. Maratea, also known as the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, provides a spectacular backdrop where cinema meets the sea, with screenings overlooking the water.
Glamour, auteur cinema and sustainability: Marateale combines red carpet glamour with serious reflection on cinema. The festival presents titles in anteprima, with guests including major Italian actors, directors and musicians. Recent editions have welcomed guests such as Raoul Bova, Elena Sofia Ricci, Arisa, Ermal Meta and international celebrities, with photocalls at Santavenere. The festival includes sections such as Marateale in Short competition and Marateale in Green, which awards the Champion of Sea and Earth prize for commitment to environment and sustainability.
Free and accessible cultural week: The festival is listed as free with no payment required for many screenings, with open access for public in Maratea’s Piazza and Santavenere amphitheater. From guided tours of Maratea to masterclasses with authors, the week offers a holistic cultural experience that blends cinema, tourism and environmental awareness.
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Festival window: Juillet 2027 (Dates à déterminer)
Durée: One week of programming, typically six days, with previews, events, masterclasses and meetings.
Seasonal placement: The festival takes place in high summer, when Maratea is at peak of tourist season, combining beach tourism with cultural events.
Santavenere Hotel – Teatro sul Mare: The main venue is the amphitheater of the prestigious Santavenere Hotel, a five-star villa hotel surrounded by lush gardens and directly overlooking the sea, located about 10-minute drive from historic center of Maratea. The hotel, member of Leading Hotels of the World, features 34 rooms and suites, wellness centre, swimming pools, three restaurants and a terrace overlooking sea, with one kilometer long private rocky beach and ten-hectare greenery. The Teatro sul Mare hosts main screenings, red carpet and award ceremonies.
Historic centre of Maratea: Additional venues include Piazza Duca degli Abruzzi, Piazza Vitolo 1, Lagonegro and other locations in Maratea, including historic centre, one of Borghi più Belli d’Italia, where guided tours, exhibitions and collateral events take place.
Diffuse regional venues: Screenings also take place at Municipality of Maratea and other venues to be announced across Basilicata and Calabria regions, extending festival’s reach and linking coastal pearl with inland cultural sites.
Previews and masterclasses: A week of programming with titles in anteprima, events, masterclasses and meetings with authors to deepen themes that run through a film, a character, an idea. Program includes morning masterclasses, afternoon screenings and evening red carpet events.
Competition sections: Marateale in Short competition is part of Marateale event, dedicated to short films, while main sections include feature previews, documentary and green cinema. Marateale in Green section awards Champion of Sea and Earth prize for environmental commitment.
Meetings with authors: Meetings with authors, actors and directors provide opportunity to explore production processes, thematic choices and social relevance of films, with Q&As that engage audience in direct dialogue.
Cultural and tourism integration: Whole day dedicated to guided tour of town of Maratea, combining cinema with discovery of pearl of Tyrrhenian Sea, including visits to Christ the Redeemer statue, historic churches and coastal trails.
Italian and international previews: Featured films include Italian and international titles in anteprima, often presented before national release, with focus on Mediterranean cinema, Basilicata stories and contemporary social issues.
Short film competition: Marateale in Short competition showcases short films from Italian and international directors, with screenings at Municipality of Maratea or other venues, highlighting emerging talent.
Green and environmental cinema: Marateale in Green section features films addressing sea and earth, sustainability, climate change and environmental protection, reflecting Basilicata’s coastal and mountainous landscape.
Mediterranean focus: Organized by Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo, festival emphasizes Mediterranean stories, cultural dialogue and Basilicata’s role as bridge between southern Italy and broader Mediterranean region.
Italian stars and international guests: Guests have included major Italian actors such as Raoul Bova, Elena Sofia Ricci, actors from popular TV series, musicians such as Arisa and Ermal Meta, and international celebrities such as Grigor Dimitrov and Madalina Ghenea, who attended photocalls at 15th edition.
Directors and authors: Directors present films and participate in masterclasses, discussing creative processes and thematic depth. The festival invites both established auteurs and emerging directors.
Green champions: Recipients of Champion of Sea and Earth prize include environmental activists, filmmakers and personalities committed to sustainability, reinforcing festival’s ecological dimension.
Industry and cultural figures: Representatives from Basilicata Turistica, regional film commissions and cultural associations attend, linking cinema to tourism and regional development.
Structure quotidienne : Screenings are typically scheduled in afternoon and evening blocks, with masterclasses in late morning, short film programs in afternoon and feature previews in prime evening slots at Santavenere amphitheater.
Red carpet and evening events: Evening schedule includes red carpet photocall, screening, Q&A and late-night events, with audience of Teatro sul Mare reacting enthusiastically to star guests.
Guided tours and collateral: Daytime includes guided tours of Maratea, visits to cultural sites and collateral events such as exhibitions and book presentations.
Cérémonie de remise des prix : Final days include award ceremony for Basilicata International Award, with prizes for best feature, best short, green prize and special mentions.
Free public access: Based on official listings, screenings are listed as gratuito, free, with no payment required for many events, valued at $0.00 USD. This free model ensures universal access and is supported by Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo, sponsors and regional institutions.
VIP and hotel packages: While main screenings are free, access to Santavenere Hotel’s exclusive areas, gala dinners and private beach may require hotel reservation or invitation, with hotel rates starting from approximately $732.00 USD per night for luxury suites, reflecting five-star Leading Hotels of the World standards.
Accréditation professionnelle : Filmmakers, press and industry professionals can request accreditation via cinemamediterraneoass@gmail.com or marateale@gmail.com, providing proof of activity. Accreditation grants access to reserved seating, backstage and interview scheduling.
Submission fees: For filmmakers submitting to Marateale in Short competition, entrance fees vary by section and deadline, typically ranging from approximately $10.85 USD to $43.40 USD, covering selection costs.
Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo: The organizing association acts as industry hub, connecting independent filmmakers with Basilicata region, regional film commissions and Mediterranean cultural networks.
Regional networking: Festival facilitates networking between filmmakers, regional tourism operators and environmental associations, with events in Lagonegro and Maratea linking cinema to sustainable tourism.
Masterclasses and training: Masterclasses with authors provide training for emerging filmmakers, students and local cultural operators, focusing on Mediterranean storytelling and environmental cinema.
Funding and tourism synergy: Support from Basilicata Turistica and regional institutions provides funding for organizational costs and promotes Maratea as cultural destination, combining cinema with tourism development.
Teatro sul Mare red carpet: The amphitheater of Santavenere Hotel transforms into Teatro sul Mare, with red carpet photocalls overlooking Tyrrhenian Sea, where guests such as Raoul Bova and Elena Sofia Ricci greet enthusiastic public, creating glamorous yet intimate atmosphere.
Cérémonies d'ouverture et de clôture : Opening night includes presentation of program, jury and guests, followed by first feature preview. Closing night features award ceremony for Basilicata International Award, with prizes for best feature, best short and green prize.
Green and cultural events: Special events include awarding of Champion of Sea and Earth prize, guided tours of Maratea, exhibitions of local crafts and concerts by Italian musicians.
Gala dinners and exclusive events: Santavenere Hotel hosts gala dinners, private beach events and wellness experiences for guests, combining cinema with luxury hospitality.
Eligibility and format: Films must address themes relevant to Mediterranean culture, Basilicata stories, environmental sustainability or contemporary social issues, with no restriction on genre but preference for works that reflect festival’s focus on sea and earth.
Submission and selection: Films are selected by selection committee appointed by festival, with decisions final. Submission implies acceptance of regulations and authorization for screening during event and related exhibitions across Basilicata and Calabria.
Copyright and promotional use: Participants authorize use of photographs and excerpts up to three minutes for press and promotional purposes. Screening and music copyright remain author’s responsibility.
Conduct and respect: Audience must respect venue rules, especially at Santavenere Hotel, including dress code for gala events, silence during screenings and respect for private beach and wellness areas.
Par train : Maratea railway station is served by regional trains from Naples, Salerno, Lamezia Terme and Paola, with connections from Rome and Milan via Salerno. From station, Santavenere Hotel and historic centre are reachable by taxi or local bus.
En bus : Local bus lines operated by regional companies connect Maratea, Lagonegro, Lauria and other Basilicata towns, with frequent services during summer tourist season. Special shuttle services are often organized from station to festival venues.
En voiture : Maratea is accessible via A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria motorway with exit at Lagonegro and Maratea, with scenic coastal road SS18. Parking areas are available near Santavenere Hotel and historic centre, with paid parking during high season.
Par avion : Nearest airports are Naples Capodichino, Lamezia Terme and Bari Karol Wojtyla, all offering bus and car rental connections to Maratea, with Naples airport connected via direct bus to Maratea in approximately three hours.
Local public transport: Regional buses provide coverage of Maratea and surrounding Basilicata and Calabria, with tickets available at tobacco shops and via mobility apps. Festival period sees increased frequency to handle tourist crowds.
Parking facilities: Public parking near Santavenere Hotel includes outdoor lots and reserved spaces for visitors with reduced mobility. Historic centre parking includes Piazza Vitolo and Piazza Duca degli Abruzzi, with limited traffic zones.
Sustainable mobility: Organizers encourage use of public transport, bicycles and walking, especially for historic centre where vehicle access is limited. Boat services and coastal trails connect festival site to beaches and Christ statue.
Information points: Festival information points at Santavenere Hotel and Piazza Vitolo provide maps and assistance for navigating between venues, with clear signage and volunteer support.
Santavenere Hotel luxury: Santavenere Hotel offers five-star luxury with 34 rooms and suites, classical elegance, private balconies with water views, wellness centre, swimming pools, three restaurants and private rocky beach, starting from approximately $732.00 USD per night, rated 4.8 out of 5 by guests.
City centre and historic B&Bs: Hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses in Maratea’s historic centre and near Piazza Duca degli Abruzzi offer convenient access to festival venues, often within walking distance, with many offering sea views and traditional hospitality.
Coastal and nature stays: Accommodations along Maratea coast, including private villas, agriturismi and beach resorts, provide beach and nature experiences combined with evening festival attendance.
Booking advice: Due to high demand during July peak season, early booking is recommended. Partner accommodations often include shuttle services to Santavenere and breakfast options.
Mediterranean coastal cuisine: Restaurants at Santavenere Hotel and in Maratea’s historic centre serve Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local cheeses and Basilicata wines, with many offering outdoor seating overlooking sea during festival evenings.
Festival aperitifs and bars: Bars and cafes near Teatro sul Mare host festival aperitifs where filmmakers and audiences meet informally, with local wines and cicchetti providing relaxed networking environment.
Local products and markets: Local markets and food stalls offer tasting of Basilicata specialties, including peperoni cruschi, lagane, caciocavallo and artisanal products, creating market atmosphere that complements cinema.
Accommodation dining: Hotels with restaurants offer breakfast and half-board options featuring local and organic products, convenient for attendees spending full days at festival.
Accessibilité du lieu : Santavenere Hotel amphitheater is equipped with ground-level access, designated spaces for wheelchair users and accessible restrooms. Staff are available to assist with entry and seating.
Historic centre challenges: Maratea’s historic centre includes steep streets and steps that may be challenging for visitors with reduced mobility, but accessible viewing areas are designated near entrance with assistance available.
Inclusive access: Free admission ensures economic accessibility, with no ticket required for many screenings and no reserved seating that would exclude latecomers. Festival provides free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities.
Contact and support: Visitors requiring specific assistance are advised to contact organizers in advance via cinemamediterraneoass@gmail.com or marateale@gmail.com to arrange support. Official website https://marateale.com/ provides detailed information.
Opening and closing previews: Opening night feature preview and closing night award-winning film offer best overview of festival’s curatorial taste and provide opportunity to see Italian previews before national release, with red carpet at Teatro sul Mare.
Marateale in Short competition: Short film competition showcases emerging talent and innovative storytelling, ideal for discovering new directors.
Green and environmental films: Marateale in Green section featuring Champion of Sea and Earth prize provides thought-provoking curation that reflects Basilicata’s coastal and environmental concerns.
Gala and star events: Screenings attended by stars such as Raoul Bova, Elena Sofia Ricci and musicians offer glamorous atmosphere with enthusiastic public reactions, making them memorable festival moments.
16th edition and star power: The 16th edition held from late July featured week of programming with titles in anteprima, events, masterclasses and meetings, with public of Teatro sul Mare literally going crazy for Raoul Bova and other star guests, demonstrating festival’s blend of glamour and auteur cinema.
Santavenere and Leading Hotels recognition: In recent year, Santavenere became first member of Leading Hotels of the World in Basilicata, raising standards and reinforcing festival’s luxury hospitality dimension, with hotel’s ten-hectare greenery and private beach enhancing festival experience.
Free access and community impact: Festival listed as free with no payment required for many screenings, attracting diverse audiences from Lagonegro, Maratea and broader Basilicata, strengthening connections between cinema, tourism and regional development.
Green prize and Mediterranean focus: Awarding of Champion of Sea and Earth prize highlighted environmental commitment, with films addressing sustainability and Mediterranean stories, reinforcing Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo’s mission.
Official channels: Tickets, where required, are sold through Santavenere Hotel box office, Municipality of Maratea and official website https://marateale.com/. For information, contact cinemamediterraneoass@gmail.com or marateale@gmail.com or phone 02125890760.
Pricing reference: While final pricing for upcoming edition will be confirmed closer to event, reference pricing from previous editions converted to USD is as follows: public screenings free $0.00 USD, Santavenere Hotel luxury suites from approximately $732.00 USD per night, festival pass for special events approximately $32.52 USD to $54.25 USD, submission fees approximately $10.85 USD to $43.40 USD.
Accreditation process: Filmmakers, press and industry professionals can request accreditation via official emails, providing proof of activity. Approval is communicated via email with instructions for collecting badges at Santavenere Hotel.
Yes, many screenings are listed as gratuito, free, with no payment required, valued at $0.00 USD, reflecting festival’s commitment to universal access supported by Associazione Cinema Mediterraneo and regional institutions. No advance reservation is required for public screenings at Teatro sul Mare and Piazza, you simply arrive early to secure seating, though access to exclusive hotel areas and gala dinners may require hotel reservation or invitation.
Santavenere Hotel is a five-star villa hotel surrounded by lush gardens and directly overlooking Tyrrhenian Sea, member of Leading Hotels of the World with 34 rooms and suites, private rocky beach, wellness centre and Teatro sul Mare amphitheater. Its location ten minutes from historic centre of Maratea, combined with high hospitality standards and stunning sea views from private balconies, creates a glamorous yet intimate setting where red carpet and cinema meet the sea.
Filmmakers submit works through official website and Festhome platform, with sections including Marateale in Short competition for short films and Marateale in Green for environmental cinema awarding Champion of Sea and Earth prize. Films must address themes relevant to Mediterranean culture or sustainability, with entry fees varying by section and deadline, and selection by committee appointed by festival with notification before festival week.
Yes, week of programming includes previews, events, masterclasses and meetings with authors to deepen themes that run through a film, a character, an idea, with stars such as Raoul Bova, Elena Sofia Ricci and musicians attending photocalls and Q&As. Masterclasses are held in Santavenere amphitheater and other locations, providing direct dialogue between audience and creators, with informal aperitifs continuing discussions after screenings.
Beyond evening screenings at Teatro sul Mare, you should join guided tour of town of Maratea, known as pearl of Tyrrhenian Sea, visit Christ the Redeemer statue, explore historic centre and enjoy coastal cuisine in restaurants serving Mediterranean dishes. Combining cinema with beach time on private rocky beach, wellness centre experiences and excursions across Basilicata and Calabria transforms festival into holistic cultural and tourism experience.
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