The church's facade features a rare concave design that contrasts with the typical convex or flat facades of contemporary Lecce Baroque churches.
The structure was built on the site of a smaller, pre-existing 16th-century chapel dedicated to the same saint.
The decorative program of the interior side altars follows a unified architectural design, a rarity for the period.
The stone used, pietra leccese, is a soft, malleable limestone that hardens upon exposure to air, allowing for the deep, intricate carvings visible on the exterior.
The church interior contains significant 18th-century canvas paintings by various artists of the Salento school.
The Chiesa di San Matteo is a definitive example of Lecce Baroque architecture, characterized by its distinct concave facade. Designed by Achille Larducci and completed in 1700, the church is integrated into the fabric of the historic center. The lower order of the facade features a convex shape that transitions into a concave upper order, creating a unique interplay of light and shadow. The interior features an elliptical plan with six side altars constructed in the local pietra leccese limestone. The high altar is a notable work by Emanuele Cappella, featuring intricate polychrome marble inlay. The church was originally commissioned by the Franciscan Tertiary Sisters. It remains an active place of worship serving the local community within the city's urban core.
From the center of Via dei Perroni directly opposite the entrance to capture the concave geometry of the facade.
Walk across the street to capture the full curvature of the facade, which is difficult to perceive from the immediate church entrance.
Look closely at the decorative carvings on the columns, which depict symbolic religious imagery rather than just abstract patterns.
Visit during late afternoon when the low-angle sun highlights the texture and depth of the baroque stone carvings.
Avoid taking photos with flash inside during mass or private prayer sessions.
May be closed during mid-day hours; subject to closure during religious services or private ceremonies.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; maintain silence as it is an active place of worship.
