Crypt of Original Sin: The Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art

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Discover Matera's hidden gem: the Crypt of Original Sin, a 9th-century cave church with stunning frescoes, offering a glimpse into early Christian art.

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Crypt of Original Sin

The Crypt of Original Sin, often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art,' is an ancient cave church near Matera, Italy, adorned with remarkable 9th-century frescoes. Rediscovered in the 1960s, it features stunning biblical scenes painted by the 'Painter of the Flowers of Matera,' offering a unique glimpse into early medieval art and religious devotion.

A brief summary to Crypt of Original Sin

Contrada Pietrapenta, Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT
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Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

Book your visit in advance, as access is limited and reservations are required.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces within the crypt.
Consider bringing a light jacket, as the temperature inside the cave can be cooler than outside.
Check the official website for the latest visiting times and any special events.
Allow ample time for travel, as the crypt is located outside of Matera.

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Getting There

Driving

From Matera, take Via Gravina and follow the signs for Contrada Pietrapenta. The journey is approximately 14 km and takes about 20 minutes. Parking is available near the crypt. Be aware that the road can be narrow in some sections. Parking near the site is free.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Matera to the Crypt of Original Sin. Check with local providers like Miccolis for schedules and routes. A single ticket costs around €1.50. The bus will drop you off near the site entrance.
Taxi

A taxi from Matera city center to the Crypt of Original Sin will cost approximately €25-€35. The journey takes around 20 minutes. Taxis are readily available in Matera's main squares and can also be booked in advance.

Discover more about Crypt of Original Sin

Nestled in the rocky ravines of the Murgia plateau near Matera, the Crypt of Original Sin is a captivating historical and artistic treasure. This cave church, dating back to the 9th century, is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes that have earned it the moniker 'The Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art'. Originally a hermitage for Benedictine monks, the crypt was rediscovered in the 1960s by local speleologists after being used as a shelter for shepherds for centuries. The frescoes, attributed to an artist known as the 'Painter of the Flowers of Matera,' depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, with a particular focus on the Creation and the concept of original sin. The vivid artwork showcases the characteristics of Benedictine-Beneventan art, providing valuable insights into the religious practices and cultural context of medieval Italy. The crypt's single chamber features three niches on the left wall, each illustrating triarchies of the Apostles, the Virgin Queen, and the Archangels. The back wall displays a large pictorial cycle capturing episodes from the Creation and the Original Sin. Red flower drawings throughout the crypt are a signature of the 'Painter of the Flowers of Matera'. Visiting the Crypt of Original Sin offers a unique and immersive experience, enhanced by an audio guide available in multiple languages. The site is managed by the Synchronos Cooperative, and visits are by reservation only. The rediscovery and restoration of the crypt stand as a testament to the dedication and passion for preserving cultural heritage.