It is the largest rupestrian church in Matera.
The church was originally a site of Byzantine-rite worship before transitioning to the Latin rite.
The interior contains burial niches in the floor, known as 'facitoi', where bodies were left to decompose before their bones were collected.
Much of the church's decorative altar artwork was stolen in the mid-20th century, leaving behind bare rock carvings.
The facade was reconstructed in the 1700s using stone blocks, contrasting with the cave-carved interior.
The Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano', or San Pietro Barisano, is the largest rock-hewn church in Matera, Italy. Carved directly into the tufa limestone of the Sasso Barisano district, the structure dates back to the 12th century with significant 18th-century facade renovations. The interior features a three-nave layout separated by columns excavated from the original rock. During the 1960s and 70s, the site suffered from extensive looting, resulting in the loss of many original frescoes and decorative elements. It has since undergone careful restoration to stabilize the rock walls and preserve the remaining archaeological features. It currently serves as a museum space and cultural venue rather than an active site of regular liturgy. The interior maintains a raw, subterranean aesthetic reflecting the early rupestrian architectural traditions of the Sassi.
The central nave looking toward the apse to capture the contrast between the stone columns and the 18th-century exterior light.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the stone floors can be slippery.
Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the rock-carved space remains cool even in summer.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the Sasso Barisano district.
Attempting to touch the remaining frescoes or carvings, as oils from hands accelerate deterioration.
Operating schedules can vary significantly based on season and local tourism events; expect potential closures during low-season winter months.
Maintain a quiet volume; dress modestly as is customary for historical religious sites in Italy.
