Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi, Matera

Church, Historic Building and Religious Building in Matera

Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi
Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Velvet

Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi is a Baroque church in the heart of Matera, set right on Piazza San Francesco, one of the city's most animated meeting points. Even if you're not planning a church-hopping day, it's an easy, worthwhile stop for architecture lovers and anyone curious about Matera beyond the famous Sassi viewpoints.

Because it sits on a central square lined with cafés and restaurants, it fits naturally into a walking tour: pair it with a stroll through the historic center, then continue toward the Sassi for the classic panoramas. It's also a good “reset” stop between viewpoints, with a calm interior that contrasts nicely with the bustle outside.

History and Significance of the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

The church’s story reflects Matera’s layered history: what you see today is largely the result of later rebuilding and embellishment, but the site’s religious roots reach back centuries. Over time, expansions and redesigns transformed the complex into the richly decorated Baroque landmark that anchors the piazza.

One of the most intriguing aspects is the sense of “hidden Matera” that often comes with churches here: beneath the surface-level beauty, there are traces of earlier phases and devotional life that connect the building to the city's medieval identity. Even a short visit can feel like a quick lesson in how Matera evolved from a modest-looking town into a place of surprising artistic ambition.

In practical terms, the church also plays an important role in the rhythm of the neighborhood: it’s both a place of worship and a cultural reference point, surrounded by everyday life—street performers, evening passeggiata, and the steady flow of visitors moving between the modern center and the Sassi.

Things to See and Do in the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

Start outside on Piazza San Francesco to appreciate how the church “holds” the square—this is one of the best spots to feel Matera’s energy without committing to a long hike through the Sassi. Then step inside for a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.

Inside, focus on the decorative richness: look for ornate altars, detailed side chapels, and the overall Baroque styling that makes the interior feel more elaborate than you might expect from the street. Visitors often mention the craftsmanship overhead as well, so take a moment to look up and scan the ceiling details.

If you're visiting as part of a self-guided walking tour, use the church as a waypoint: it's a convenient place to pause, cool down in summer, and reset your route before heading toward Matera's best viewpoints and cave-church experiences.

How to Get to the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

The nearest major airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Naples International Airport (NAP), with Bari typically the most convenient for Matera. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Matera on Booking.com.

From elsewhere in Italy, you can reach the Matera area by rail via Bari and then continue onward to Matera using local connections, depending on your route and timetable. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

If you’re driving, aim for parking outside the most restricted historic areas and continue on foot into the center; the church is easiest to reach by walking once you’re near Piazza San Francesco. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

  • Entrance fee: Free; donations appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Daily: 08:00–12:00 & 16:30–20:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning for a quieter interior, or late afternoon when the piazza comes alive and you can combine your stop with an aperitivo nearby.
  • How long to spend: 15–30 minutes is enough for a satisfying look; add extra time if you enjoy photographing architectural details.
  • Accessibility: Expect steps and uneven historic paving around the square; inside access may be easier than many Sassi sites, but mobility can still be limited.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of cafés and restrooms in nearby bars and restaurants on and around the piazza, but facilities inside the church are typically limited.

Where to Stay Close to the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

Base yourself in central Matera near the historic center edge of the Sassi for the easiest walks to churches, viewpoints, and restaurants.

Staying near Piazza San Francesco (or a short walk away) keeps you close to both the modern center and the Sassi, which is ideal if you want to sightsee on foot and dip in and out of the busiest areas. Here are five well-located options, chosen for convenience, atmosphere, and walkability.

Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel A splurge-worthy choice with a classic Matera setting and an easy on-foot connection to major sights; great if you want a memorable, high-comfort base.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa Included for the distinctive cave-style experience and spa downtime—perfect after long walking days on stone streets.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita A standout for travelers who want atmosphere and design rooted in Matera’s heritage; it’s ideal for a once-in-a-lifetime stay.

Hotel San Domenico al Piano A practical, comfortable pick close to the center, useful if you want straightforward logistics and quick access to restaurants and walking routes.

Locanda di San Martino Chosen for its balance of character and convenience, with a location that makes it easy to explore the Sassi early or late in the day.

Is the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you're already exploring central Matera on foot. It's an easy, low-effort stop that delivers a strong payoff in Baroque beauty, a calm interior, and a prime location on one of the city's liveliest squares.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and mainly want iconic Sassi panoramas, rupestrian churches, or cave dwellings, you could skip going inside and simply enjoy the piazza atmosphere from outside. Likewise, if you’ve been visiting multiple Baroque churches on the same trip, this may feel like a “nice extra” rather than a must-see.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (703)

Reviews are very positive overall, with visitors praising the church's Baroque architecture, ornate interior details, and the peaceful atmosphere once inside. Many also like its prime location on a lively central square surrounded by cafés and street life, making it an easy stop on a walking route. The most common minor drawback is that it can feel busy outside due to the popular piazza setting, so those seeking complete quiet may prefer visiting earlier in the day.

Dejan Braki
2 years ago
"A classic and really beautiful Baroque Church from 13c. It's set on one of the busiest squares with many bars and restaurants around, as well streetperformers. Free to enter to admire beautiful altar and wooden ceiling..."
Cellist ESTHER
a year ago
"It's a solid, nice building. Matera may look modest, but I think the grandeur of the building is as good as Milan and Florence."
Irene Estlund
9 months ago
"Beautiful church to stop in and view."

For Different Travelers

Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi works well as a flexible stop: you can keep it brief, or slow down to appreciate details. Because it's centrally placed, it's also easy to fit into almost any Matera itinerary without backtracking.

Families with Kids

For families, the biggest advantage is the short visit time: you can pop in, look around, and be back outside quickly. The nearby square is lively, which can keep kids engaged before and after the quieter interior.

Plan it as a “pause point” between bigger highlights, and pair it with a gelato stop nearby. Keep an eye on little ones around stone steps and the uneven paving outside.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will appreciate the contrast between the bustling piazza and the peaceful interior—an easy way to add a reflective moment to a day of exploring. It also pairs nicely with a sunset walk toward the Sassi viewpoints.

Make it part of an evening route: church stop, then aperitivo on the square, then a slow stroll into the historic lanes. It's a simple, romantic rhythm that feels very Matera.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers benefit from the central location and typically free entry, making it a high-value stop. It’s also a good way to enjoy architecture and atmosphere without booking a ticketed attraction.

Use it as a navigation anchor while walking between free viewpoints and scenic streets. The surrounding area has plenty of casual food options, so you can keep costs predictable.

History Buffs

History lovers will enjoy how the church hints at multiple layers of Matera’s past, from early phases to later Baroque transformation. Even without a long guided visit, you can read the building as a timeline in stone and decoration.

To deepen the experience, connect this stop with other historic churches and the broader story of Matera’s urban development. Seeing it in context makes the city’s “surprising grandeur” feel more tangible.

FAQs for Visiting Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

Getting There

Yes—it’s in central Matera and works well as a walking waypoint between the modern center and the Sassi. Expect some slopes and uneven paving as you move between areas.
Yes, most visitors arrive on foot once they’re in central Matera. Local transport can get you close, but the last stretch is typically easiest walking.
Yes, it sits on a busy square with plenty of nearby places to eat and take a break. This makes it easy to combine with lunch or an aperitivo.

Tickets & Entry

Entry is generally free for visitors. If there’s a donation box, contributing is a nice way to support upkeep.
Yes, access can be limited during services or special events. If you arrive during a ceremony, wait quietly or return later.
Not typically for casual entry, but guided tours of Matera may include this stop as part of a broader itinerary. Any tour cost would be for the tour overall, not the church alone.

Visiting Experience

The interior decoration and Baroque character are the highlights, especially if you enjoy architectural details. It’s also a calm break from the busy streets.
No, it’s best as a short, satisfying stop. Most travelers are done in under half an hour.
It can feel busier when the piazza is lively, but the interior often remains relatively calm. Visiting earlier in the day helps if you prefer quiet.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it fits naturally into a central Matera walking route. It’s a good mid-route stop before heading toward Sassi viewpoints.
Pair it with a loop through the historic center and then continue toward the Sassi for panoramic views. This gives you both “city life” and the iconic landscape.
Yes, if you’re passing through the center anyway. Keep it brief and prioritize viewpoints and one or two signature Sassi experiences.

Photography

Usually yes, but be respectful and avoid disturbing anyone praying. If signage indicates restrictions, follow them.
The best exterior shots are often from across Piazza San Francesco, where you can frame the church with the square’s atmosphere. Early morning light can be especially flattering.
It can be, thanks to the lively square and evening ambience. Be mindful of crowds and keep your gear close.

Accessibility & Facilities

Accessibility can be limited by steps and historic paving, especially around the piazza. If step-free access is important, it’s best to check on-site conditions when you arrive.
Typically, churches don’t offer public restrooms. Use nearby cafés and restaurants on the square.
Yes, there is usually seating, which can be helpful for a short rest. Be mindful if a service is taking place.

Food & Breaks Nearby

The piazza is surrounded by cafés and casual spots, making it easy to grab a coffee or snack. It’s a convenient place to pause before continuing your walk.
Yes, the square’s evening energy makes it a popular aperitivo zone. It’s a simple way to end a day of sightseeing.
Yes, you’ll find a range from quick bites to sit-down meals. Walking a street or two away from the busiest frontage can help with value.

Safety & Timing

Generally yes, as it’s a central, well-trafficked square. As anywhere, keep an eye on belongings in crowds.
Morning tends to be calmer both inside and around the square. Late afternoon is livelier and better for people-watching.
Yes, if you want a quiet visit, avoid peak service times. If you arrive during a ceremony, keep your visit brief and respectful.

Nearby Attractions to the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi

  • Piazza Vittorio Veneto: A central gathering point and gateway area for exploring between modern Matera and the Sassi.
  • Palombaro Lungo: A vast underground cistern experience that adds depth to Matera's story of water and survival.
  • Sassi di Matera: The iconic cave-dwelling districts best explored on foot for lanes, viewpoints, and atmosphere.
  • Cattedrale di Matera (Duomo): Matera's hilltop cathedral with rewarding views and a classic historic-center approach.
  • Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista: Another standout church nearby, often admired for its architecture and interior details.

The Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Matera!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily: 08:00-12:00 & 16:30-20:00.

Price:

Free; donations appreciated.

Address: Piazza S. Francesco, 75100 Matera MT, Italy
Matera: 0 km
Telephone: +39 0835 332908

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