The Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta is a religious site located in the city of Matera, Italy. It is the main Catholic church in the city and has been standing since the 13th century. The cathedral is a symbol of the city’s history and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.
The cathedral is located in the old city of Matera, known as the “Sassi”. It was built in 1270, by the order of the Archbishop of Matera, Bertrando di San Martino. The original building was a three-nave church, with a central nave and two side aisles. Over the centuries, the church underwent several renovations and additions, including a new dome, a bell tower, and a baroque facade.
The current structure of the cathedral is a mixture of different architectural styles, from the Romanesque to the Baroque. The interior of the church is decorated with frescoes and sculptures from the 16th and 17th centuries. The main altar is made of marble and is decorated with gilded bronze statues.
The Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta is a popular tourist attraction in Matera. Visitors can explore the interior of the church, as well as the bell tower and the surrounding area. There are also guided tours available, which provide information about the history and architecture of the cathedral.
Interior
The interior of the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta is filled with artwork and sculptures. The main altar is made of marble and is decorated with gilded bronze statues. The walls are decorated with frescoes from the 16th and 17th centuries, depicting scenes from the Bible and the life of the Virgin Mary. There are also several other sculptures and artworks, including a 16th century bronze statue of St. Francis of Assisi.
Bell Tower
The bell tower of the cathedral was added in the 16th century and stands at a height of 75 meters. It is decorated with three bells, which were cast in 1741 and are still in use today. The bell tower also offers a panoramic view of the city of Matera.
Surrounding Area
The area around the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta is filled with historical monuments and buildings. Nearby is the Church of San Giovanni Battista, which was built in the 12th century. There are also several other churches, such as the Church of San Nicola and the Church of San Francesco.
Events
The Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta hosts several religious and cultural events throughout the year. The most important event is the annual celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which takes place in August. Other events include concerts, religious processions, and festivals.
Conclusion
The Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta is a symbol of Matera’s history and culture. It is a popular tourist attraction, with its beautiful architecture and artworks. The surrounding area is filled with historical monuments and churches, making it a great place to explore. The cathedral also hosts several events throughout the year, making it a great place to visit.