Matera Cathedral
Basilicata
Matera Cathedral, officially named the Cathedral of the Madonna della Bruna and Saint Eustace, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located atop the highest ridge of Matera, Basilicata, Italy. Constructed between 1203 and 1270 in the Apulian Romanesque style, it was built on the site of an ancient church dedicated to Saint Eustace, the city's protector. The cathedral features a Latin cross plan with three naves separated by round arches supported by columns with stone capitals. Its west façade is marked by a striking sixteen-ray rose window and a 52-meter-high campanile. The interior hosts significant Baroque decorations from the 17th and 18th centuries, including gilded stuccoes and frames. Notable artworks include an Italo-Byzantine fresco of the Madonna della Bruna and Child from 1270, carved wooden choir stalls from 1453, a Nativity scene sculpted by Altobello Persio in 1534, and a 14th-century fresco depicting the Last Judgment. The high altar features an altarpiece by Fabrizio Santafede portraying The Virgin with Saints. The cathedral remains a central religious and cultural landmark, reflecting centuries of artistic and spiritual heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during weekdays to avoid crowds and to witness the intricate interior artworks with better tranquility. Booking guided tours in advance can enhance understanding of its art and history. The cathedral is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring Matera. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check local visitor centers or the cathedral's contact for updated information on visiting hours and any special events.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's rose window has sixteen rays symbolizing the apostles and evangelists.
- •Its campanile stands 52 meters tall and features four levels with bifore and monofore windows.
- •The cathedral houses a rare Italo-Byzantine fresco of the Madonna della Bruna and Child dating back to 1270.
- •The carved wooden choir stalls, created in 1453 by Giovanni Tantino, number sixty in total and are located in the apse.
- •The 'porta dei leoni' (door of the lions) is named for two sculpted lions flanking the entrance, a unique feature of the cathedral's façade.
History
The cathedral's construction began in 1203, shortly after Pope Innocent III elevated Matera to an archdiocese, and was completed in 1270.
It was built on the site of a former church dedicated to Saint Eustace and replaced an earlier Norman castle and a paleochristian place of worship.
Originally dedicated to Santa Maria di Matera, its dedication evolved over time to include the Madonna della Bruna and Saint Eustace by the 17th century.
The cathedral's prominent position was enhanced by raising its rocky base by over six meters to dominate the cityscape.
In 1962, Pope John XXIII elevated it to the status of a minor basilica.
Significant restoration efforts have been undertaken since 2003, including structural reinforcements and preservation of medieval elements, culminating in its reopening for worship in 2016.
Place Guide
West Façade and Rose Window13th century
The cathedral's west front is dominated by a sixteen-ray rose window symbolizing the apostles and evangelists, flanked by sculpted figures including the Archangel Michael crushing a dragon. The façade features statues of Saints Peter, Paul, Eustace, and Theopista, as well as decorative columns representing the evangelists and apostles.
Campanile13th century
The 52-meter-high bell tower, contemporary with the cathedral, has four levels with bifore windows on three floors and monofore on the fourth, topped by a later-added pyramid-shaped roof.
Interior Nave and Baroque Decorations17th-18th centuries
The interior features a Latin cross layout with three naves separated by round arches supported on columns with stone capitals. Much of the interior decoration dates to the 17th and 18th centuries, including gilded stuccoes and ornate frames enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Madonna della Bruna Fresco1270
An Italo-Byzantine fresco dating from 1270 attributed to Rinaldo da Taranto, depicting the Madonna della Bruna and Child, located inside the cathedral.
Wooden Choir Stalls1453
Sixty intricately carved wooden choir stalls from 1453 created by Giovanni Tantino of Ariano Irpino, located in the apse of the cathedral.
Nativity Scene and Annunciation Sculptures1534 (Nativity), Renaissance period (Chapel)
A sculptural group of the Nativity scene created by Altobello Persio in 1534 and a Renaissance-style Chapel of the Annunciation erected by Giulio Persio, featuring painted limestone crib and other religious artworks.
Contact
Phone: 0835 332908
