San Matteo

San Matteo, known locally as Chiesa di San Matteo, is a captivating historical gem nestled within the charming town of Bisceglie, Italy. This church, with its rich history and architectural simplicity, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the layers of history embedded within its walls.

The History of San Matteo

The origins of San Matteo date back to 1080 when it was established under the guidance of Bishop Mancusio. Initially serving as a parish for the communities of Giano and Sagina, the church was dedicated to the apostle Matthew. These communities sought refuge within the fortified urban nucleus, away from the threat of marauding invaders.

In the early 17th century, the church underwent significant changes. After the closure of the nearby San Nicolò due to structural concerns, Bishop Alessandro Cospi unified it with San Matteo, creating the “Collegiate and Parish Church of Saints Matthew and Nicolò.” An unfortunate fire in the early 1600s led to severe damage, but the resilient spirit of the community saw the church restored and reopened by 1628, with a formal consecration by Bishop Pompeo Sarnelli in 1692.

Exploring San Matteo

Visitors to San Matteo are greeted by a modest yet intriguing facade. The exterior, marked by the vestiges of its past, features a vestibule added in the late 19th century. This entrance, characterized by a semicircular arch and a tympanum, bears the emblem of the Confraternity of the Sacred Heart, hinting at the church's enduring spiritual influence.

Inside, the church's architecture is simple yet profound. The single nave, oriented along an east-west axis, is flanked by five chapels that seem to be carved into the very fabric of the building. These chapels, adorned with the Tuscan order, create a rhythmic pattern interrupted only by the triumphal arch leading to the transept and the baroque altar dedicated to the Madonna of Pompei.

Artistic Treasures

San Matteo houses several artistic masterpieces that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Among them is the “Madonna of Constantinople,” a 16th-century painting attributed to Angelo Bizamano. This Byzantine work, with its intricate gold background and vibrant hues, is a testament to the fusion of Eastern and Western artistic influences.

Another notable piece is the “Madonna of the Rosary with Child and Saints,” painted by Corrado Giaquinto in the 18th century. This oil on canvas captures the Virgin Mary handing a rosary to Saint Dominic, with Saint Nicholas and Saint Matthew depicted alongside, offering a glimpse into the church's devotional life.

The Architectural Journey

The architectural journey of San Matteo is a tale of resilience and adaptation. The church's structure, primarily composed of local limestone, showcases the continuity of ancient construction techniques. Despite the devastation of the 1600s fire, the building retains elements of its original design, seamlessly blending with later additions.

The bell tower, crafted from local tuff stone, stands as a prominent feature in Bisceglie's skyline, symbolizing the church's enduring presence in the community. The interior decorations of the chapels are more elaborate compared to the church's overall architecture, providing a contrast that adds to the building's allure.

A Place of Worship and Community

Today, San Matteo serves as the seat of the Confraternity of the Sacred Heart, continuing its legacy as a center of faith and community. The church's history, marked by reconstruction and restoration, mirrors the resilience of the people of Bisceglie, who have preserved this sacred space for generations.

In conclusion, San Matteo is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of Bisceglie. Its walls whisper stories of faith, resilience, and community, inviting visitors to explore the rich tapestry of history woven into the fabric of this remarkable church.