Things to see · Churches and sanctuaries
Abbey of Santa Maria del Casale, Pisticci
Pisticci (Matera)
Abbey of Santa Maria del Casale, Pisticci is in Pisticci, province of Matera. Opening hours: Open for worship; outside services it may be closed: check with the parish. Admission: Free.
- Free.
- Open for worship; outside services it may be closed: check with the parish.
About this place
The abbey of Santa Maria del Casale, today the sanctuary of Santa Maria la Sanità, sits just outside the centre of Pisticci and is the place of worship most dear to the people of Pisticci.
History
The abbey was founded around 1087, on the site of an ancient Byzantine monastery, and entrusted to the Benedictines. Norman lords donated lands and properties to it, including the San Basilio Castle (San Basilio castle). The convent next to it has been largely rebuilt.
What to see
• The façade, with its 14th-century portal and 16th-century rose window.
• The statue of the Madonna, dating from the 12th century and highly revered by the people of Pisticci.
• The abbey complex, which today hosts cultural events.
The festival
On the last Sunday of April, Pisticci celebrates the Madonna del Casale with celebrations and a procession.
Useful information
• This is a very popular place of worship, including for weddings: visit with respect, outside of services.
• From the sanctuary, the centre and the Dirupo district are reached in just a few minutes.
