The Church of San Francesco d’Assisi brings a theatrical touch of Baroque architecture to the edge of Matera’s old town. Facing a lively piazza near the Sassi, its carved stone façade, statues and elaborate portal reveal a different side of a city best known for cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches.
The church has medieval origins and was reshaped over the centuries, with its present appearance largely reflecting later Baroque renovations. Local tradition holds that Saint Francis visited Matera in the early 13th century. Whether or not the story can be confirmed, the church remains a reminder of the Franciscan presence in the city and the many layers of its religious history.
Inside, altars and devotional art offer a contrast to the dim, frescoed rock churches of the Sassi. It’s worth stopping for the craftsmanship and a quiet moment before continuing towards the lanes and viewpoints below. Check opening times locally, as access can vary around services and the midday break. Dress modestly, keep your voice low if worship is under way, and wear comfortable shoes for the uneven paving and slopes nearby.