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Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve: A Matera Rock Church

Explore Matera's Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, a rock-hewn church with ancient frescoes and a rich Benedictine history.

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The Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve is a rock-hewn church near Matera's Sasso Caveoso, dating back to the 8th century as the first Benedictine settlement in Matera. Featuring 12th and 13th-century frescoes, including a rare breastfeeding Madonna, the church provides a glimpse into the area's religious history.

A brief summary to Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve

  • Monday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6:50 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6:50 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on December 13th for the Feast of Saint Lucia, when a special mass is held in the still-consecrated right aisle.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach involves walking on uneven, ancient stone paths in the Sassi.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Sasso Caveoso for a comprehensive Matera experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, walk under the archway next to the Church of San Pietro Caveoso. Follow the narrow, winding path towards Rione Malve. The Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve will be on your right, marked by its rock-hewn facade. The walk is short but involves some steps and uneven surfaces.

  • Public Transport

    From Matera Centrale train station, take a local bus towards the Sassi. Get off at the bus stop closest to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. From there, follow the walking directions. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50 if purchased on board.

  • Taxi

    From Matera Centrale train station, a taxi to Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve will cost approximately €10-€15. Ask the driver to take you to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso in the Sasso Caveoso. From there, it's a short walk to the church.

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Discover more about Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve

The Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve, nestled in Matera's Rione Malve, is a captivating rock church with historical and architectural significance. Carved into the limestone cliffs, it represents the craftsmanship of local artisans. Originally dedicated to Saint Agatha, it was later dedicated to Saint Lucia between 1217 and 1267. In 1525, the nuns moved to other monasteries, and the church was used as a residence. The church's exterior has three chalices that symbolize Saint Lucia's martyrdom. The interior has three naves separated by pillars. The right aisle remains open for worship, and a mass is celebrated on December 13 for Saint Lucia's Day. The other two aisles were once private homes. Frescoes from the 12th century adorn the interior, including depictions of the Archangel Gabriel, the Nursing Madonna, and other religious figures. Above the church, there is a necropolis with rock tombs. The church is historically significant as the first female monastic settlement of the Benedictine Order in Matera, dating back to the 8th century. It is considered the most important church in Matera's history. The monastery existed for a millennium and was renamed twice.

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