Things to see · Monuments and historic buildings
Chiesa Diruta of Santi Luca e Giuliano, Grottole
Grottole (Matera)
Chiesa Diruta of Santi Luca e Giuliano, Grottole is in Grottole, province of Matera. Opening hours: Always visible from outside. Admission: Free.
- Free.
- Always visible from outside.
About this place
The Chiesa Diruta, literally the «ruined» church, is the church of the Santi Luca e Giuliano and is the symbol of Grottole. Its great roofless arches, in the heart of the historic centre, are one of the most photographed sights in the province of Matera.
History
The church was built from 1508 by the local clergy and enlarged until the mid-18th century. It remained unfinished and was later damaged by several earthquakes, until it was reduced to a ruin. The bell tower incorporates one of the ancient towers of the walls of Grottole.
What to see
• The arches and pillars still standing, open to the sky.
• The bell tower, built from a tower of the walls.
• The views over the old village and the Sichinulfo castle.
Useful information
• The ruin can be admired from the outside.
• It has been featured several times among the FAI’s «Luoghi del Cuore» (Places of the Heart).
• In the village there is also the Mother Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and, in the countryside, the Sant’Antonio Abate sanctuary.
