S. Maria della Strada: A Romanesque Jewel in Matrice

Nestled in the countryside near Matrice, the Church of S. Maria della Strada stands as a testament to Romanesque artistry and enduring faith. Constructed between the 11th and 12th centuries on the site of earlier structures, the church boasts a design featuring three naves ending in apses, separated by sturdy columns with uniquely decorated capitals. The exterior is characterized by an elegant stone facade crafted from well-squared ashlars. The main facade is richly adorned with symbolic bas-reliefs, including animal figures and human forms intertwined with floral and geometric patterns. Of particular note are the sculptures flanking the rose window, depicting oxen and an eagle, each carrying profound religious symbolism. Inside, visitors can admire a 14th-century holy water font and a Gothic funerary monument, adding to the church's mystical atmosphere. S. Maria della Strada was consecrated in August 1148 by Pietro II, Archbishop of Benevento. Its location along the Cortile-Centocelle tratturo, an ancient sheep track, made it a significant stop for pilgrims traveling to Apulian sanctuaries. Immersed in greenery and away from the bustle of the city, the church exudes a captivating charm, inviting contemplation and appreciation of its historical and artistic value.