Palazzo dell’Annunziata – former monastery now thriving with culture

History and description

The Palazzo dell’Annunziata is a historic building located in Matera, whose construction began in 1735, after the project had been entrusted in 1734 to the architect Vito Valentino of Bitonto. The terrain presented considerable geological difficulties, requiring foundations as deep as fifteen meters to stabilize the structure. For the front part of the palace, a 16th‑century tower belonging to the ancient fortifications of Count Tramontano was reused.

During the works, disputes arose that led, in 1739, to Valentino’s removal from the project, which was then continued by other architects, including Mauro Manieri of Nardò. In 1747, the Dominican nuns took possession of the building, even though it was not yet fully completed. Originally conceived as a monastic complex, it later passed to the municipal domain, becoming the seat of the court, judicial offices, and a middle school.

Today, it houses the Provincial Library “Tommaso Stigliani” and the provincial media library, as well as the Municipal Cinema. In addition, the “Open Space” of the Basilicata Region, located inside, is used for events, exhibitions, and cultural meetings. Architecturally, the façade is imposing and Baroque: the lower part is characterized by a large central arch that once served as the entrance, leading to a 19th‑century church, while the upper part is adorned with a pediment containing a clock, surmounted by the coat of arms of the city of Matera.

Curiosities

The palace clock has a peculiar history. The first mechanical clock with weight‑driven movement was installed in 1914. It required a system of weights descending about 30 meters, and each time the weights touched the ground, the clock would stop.

Access

The palace is accessible free of charge, with variable opening hours.

How to reach it

Located in the historic center of Matera, the palace is easily reachable on foot from the Sassi, from the upper parts of the city, or by car, taking advantage of the nearby parking areas.

Thus, the Palazzo dell’Annunziata is a building that perfectly represents Baroque Matera, a must‑see for lovers of art and architecture.

Photo credits: Luca Aless (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0