Church of Santa Lucia at Malve

The Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve, located in the picturesque Sasso Caveoso of Matera, is a magnificent example of rock architecture and a symbol of the city’s rich religious and cultural history. Probably founded in the 8th century by Benedictine monks, the church is dedicated to Saint Lucia, a Christian martyr particularly revered as the protector of sight. The facade of the church, carved directly into the limestone rock, presents itself with disarming simplicity that contrasts with the complexity of its interior. The main entrance, framed by a stone structure, leads to a sacred space rich in frescoes and decorations that testify to centuries of faith and devotion.Inside, the church has a single nave plan with several side chapels. The walls are entirely covered with frescoes dating back to various historical periods, from the 13th to the 18th century. These frescoes depict biblical scenes and lives of saints, with particular attention to the figure of Saint Lucia. Among the most significant works is a fresco representing the saint with the symbols of her martyrdom, a work of great expressive intensity that has withstood the test of time.The main altar, located at the end of the nave, is decorated with stuccoes and frescoes representing the glory of Saint Lucia. The atmosphere is made even more suggestive by the natural light filtering through the small windows carved into the rock, creating a play of light and shadow that enhances the spirituality of the place.The side chapels house minor altars and other valuable works of art. One of the most fascinating chapels is dedicated to the Madonna of the Milk, where you can admire a fresco depicting the Virgin Mary breastfeeding the Baby Jesus, an iconographic theme of great delicacy and humanity. An interesting anecdote related to the church concerns the discovery of an ancient cemetery during restoration works in the 20th century. The excavations brought to light numerous tombs and human bones, providing valuable information on medieval funerary practices. These findings have allowed to reconstruct the history of the site and better understand the daily life of the communities that revolved around the church.The Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve has gone through periods of abandonment and decay, especially during the 19th century, when many of the rock churches of Matera were abandoned due to the difficult living conditions in the Sassi. However, thanks to restoration and conservation efforts undertaken in the 20th century, the church has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.