Piazza del Sedile: Matera's Historic Heart

Piazza del Sedile, nestled in the heart of Matera's ancient Civita district, has been a focal point of city life for centuries. Originally known as Piazza Maggiore in the 14th century, it functioned as a bustling marketplace surrounded by warehouses and shops. In the mid-16th century, it transitioned into the city's administrative center, housing the assembly of citizens known as the Sedile, which governed Matera. The square's architecture is defined by the elegant palazzi that enclose it, most notably the Palazzo del Sedile. This palace, originally built in 1540 and renovated in 1779, features a distinctive facade adorned with statues representing the cardinal virtues: justice, strength, prudence, and temperance. Two Rococo-style towers flank the entrance, one with a sundial and the other with a clock. Today, the Palazzo del Sedile houses the Egidio Romualdo Duni Conservatory of Music and a modern auditorium, hosting musical events and concerts. Piazza del Sedile serves as a connecting point between the commercial district and the Sassi, Matera's unique cave dwellings. It's a popular gathering place, hosting cultural events, concerts, and markets. From the square, visitors can easily access the Matera Cathedral and panoramic viewpoints, immersing themselves in the city's historical and cultural richness.