Town Hall

The Palazzo del Sedile is one of the most emblematic and significant buildings in Matera, located in the central Piazza del Sedile. Built between 1540 and 1541, the palace served as the seat of the city government, hosting the town hall and local parliament until the 19th century. Its architecture, rich in Renaissance and Baroque elements, reflects the city’s political and social history, making it a place of great historical and cultural importance. The palace was commissioned by local authorities to create a space that could accommodate the city’s main government institutions. Its construction marked a period of growth and development for Matera, as its autonomy and administrative importance were consolidated. The original building was rather simple, but over the centuries it underwent several modifications and expansions that enriched its architectural appearance. The facade of the Palazzo del Sedile is imposing and majestic, with an entrance portal surmounted by a round arch and framed by Doric columns. Above the portal, there is a large window decorated with Baroque elements, allowing natural light to enter the interior of the palace. The clock and the two bell towers on the sides of the facade add a touch of elegance and solemnity to the whole. These architectural elements were added during the renovations of the 18th century, which transformed the palace into a significant example of Baroque architecture. Inside, the Palazzo del Sedile preserves numerous elements of great artistic and historical value. The main rooms are decorated with frescoes, stuccoes, and antique furniture, reflecting the taste and refinement of the local nobility. Among the most important rooms is the Council Chamber, where meetings of the city government were held. This room is adorned with frescoes depicting scenes of public life and allegories of justice and virtue, evidence of the importance Matera attributed to good governance and fairness. Another room of great interest is the Music Room, used for cultural events and concerts. Thanks to its excellent acoustics and the elegance of the decorations, this room still hosts important artistic and musical events today. The ceiling of the room is decorated with a large fresco depicting the Muses, deities of music and the arts, emphasizing the connection between the palace and culture. During the 19th century, the Palazzo del Sedile lost its function as the seat of the city government, which was transferred to a more modern building. However, the palace continued to play an important role in the public and cultural life of Matera, hosting various offices and institutions. During this period, the palace underwent further modifications and restorations, preserving its historical and architectural value. One of the most interesting episodes related to the history of the Palazzo del Sedile is the discovery, during the restoration works of the 20th century, of a series of ancient documents hidden in a niche of the palace. These documents, dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods, contain valuable information about the administrative and political history of Matera, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s public life.