MATA – Diocesan Museum of Matera is a cultural institution that preserves and enhances the artistic and religious heritage of the city of Matera and its diocese. Located in the heart of the historic center, within the former Monastery of Santa Chiara complex, the museum offers a unique view of sacred art through the ages, with a particular focus on medieval and baroque periods.
The MATA collection includes a wide range of works, from paintings and sculptures to textiles and silverware, demonstrating the deep religiosity and refined art of the region. Among the most significant pieces are masterpieces of Italian painting from the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries, including works by artists such as Cima da Conegliano and Carlo Dolci.
The exhibition path is organized in an immersive and educational way, allowing visitors to understand the artistic and spiritual evolution through various rooms that explore specific themes, from the iconography of Mary to the representation of local saints. Each room is enhanced by informative panels providing historical and artistic context, making the visit a complete educational experience.
MATA is not only a place of preservation but also a center for cultural dialogue, with a strong emphasis on education and community interaction. The museum regularly organizes events, temporary exhibitions, and meetings that delve into various aspects of Materan culture and ecclesiastical life, thus promoting ongoing cultural renewal.
With its rich offerings and stunning location in the picturesque setting of the Sassi di Matera, MATA is an essential reference point for those wishing to discover the artistic and spiritual roots of one of the most fascinating cities in southern Italy. A visit to the museum offers an immersion in history, art, and spirituality, linking the past with the present in a continuous dialogue between beauty and devotion.