Lanfranchi Palace

Palazzo Lanfranchi is one of the most emblematic historical buildings in Matera, a true treasure trove of history, art, and culture located in the heart of the Civita district. Built in the 17th century, the palace represents a splendid example of Baroque architecture and now houses the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata, one of the most important cultural institutions in the region. The construction of Palazzo Lanfranchi was commissioned by Archbishop Vincenzo Lanfranchi in 1668, with the aim of creating a prestigious seat for the diocesan seminary. The project was entrusted to the Matera architect Francesco Antonio Vacca, who created a monumental building characterized by an elegant and harmonious facade, enriched with decorative elements typical of the Baroque style. The structure of the palace reflects the aesthetic and functional canons of the time, with particular attention to symmetry and proportion of spaces. The main facade of Palazzo Lanfranchi overlooks Piazza Giovanni Pascoli and impresses with its grandeur and sophistication. The entrance portal, surmounted by a curved pediment, is framed by Doric columns that give solemnity to the building. Above the portal, a series of windows with molded frames creates a play of light and shadow that enhances the plasticity of the facade. A richly decorated cornice runs along the entire upper perimeter of the palace, completing the work with a touch of elegance. The interior of the palace is equally fascinating, with a series of spacious and bright rooms that develop around a central courtyard. The rooms are enriched with stuccoes, frescoes, and period furnishings, which testify to the taste and refinement of the commissioners. Among the most important rooms is the seminary hall, decorated with frescoes depicting biblical and allegorical scenes, and the private chapel, a jewel of Baroque sacred art. Since 2003, Palazzo Lanfranchi has been home to the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata, which houses an extraordinary collection of artworks ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The museum is divided into different thematic sections, allowing visitors to explore the richness and variety of the region’s artistic heritage. Among the most significant works are the paintings by Carlo Levi, including the famous “Lucania ’61”, a monumental work that tells the history and culture of Basilicata through a vibrant fresco of characters and landscapes. One of the most fascinating sections of the museum is dedicated to medieval sacred art, with a collection of icons, crucifixes, and frescoes from the region’s churches and monasteries. These works, often created by anonymous artists, offer a glimpse into the devotion and spirituality of local communities over the centuries. Among the most precious pieces is a splendid icon of the Madonna and Child, dating back to the 13th century, which stands out for its expressive intensity and the refinement of details. The museum also houses a rich collection of modern art, with works by Lucanian and Italian artists who have made a significant mark in the history of 20th-century art. Among these, the works of Luigi Guerricchio stand out, a Matera painter who has interpreted with originality and sensitivity the social and cultural transformations of his land. His works, characterized by an expressive and symbolic language, depict the daily life of farmers and artisans in Matera, offering an authentic and poetic image of Lucanian reality.