5 - Saint Lucy’s Church

Early 16th Century

Audio Guide Transcript

. St. Lucy’s Church, dating back to the early 16th century, stands just outside the town walls and has been documented as early as 1544. Originally dedicated to Saint Anthony of Vienna, it was renamed in the 19th century. In 1566, under the care of the Confraternity of Saint Anthony, the church underwent significant restoration, as evidenced by the Renaissance-style portal that still serves as the main entrance. The portal bears a dedication and the renovation date, adding a layer of historical charm to the structure.

Inside, the church preserves a true artistic treasure: the final cycle of frescoes by the renowned Lucanian painter Giovanni Todisco, completed in 1567. The apse vault features a majestic depiction of the Coronation of the Virgin by the Holy Trinity, surrounded by a choir of angel musicians. The semi-dome’s decorative scheme, divided by smooth columns with Corinthian capitals, culminates in a frieze adorned with intricate meander patterns, marking the transition to the upper vault. Here, panels narrate two miracles of Saint Anthony of Padua: the healing of a man’s leg and the sermon to the fish, alongside a portrait of the saint, identified by an inscription at its base.

Moving along the walls, one encounters the figure of Saint Paul the Hermit, accompanied by an inscription. Additional fascinating panels depict episodes from Saint Anthony Abbot's life, including his encounter with a centaur and another meeting with Saint Paul the Hermit—scenes imbued with mysticism and spiritual symbolism.

Other frescoed scenes stand out on the right-side wall, including the dramatic accusation of Saint Lucy for her Christian faith and subsequent martyrdom, rendered with striking emotional intensity. For many years, these frescoes were hidden beneath a layer of whitewash applied in 1856 until they were rediscovered and restored in 1983, revealing their original beauty.

Among the church’s other artistic treasures are two statues: one of Saint Lucy, dating between the 18th and 19th centuries, and one of Saint Anthony Abbot, from the 16th century. Significant conservation efforts have been focused on the church in recent years. In 2016, the Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape of Basilicata carried out extraordinary maintenance work, and in 2023, a meticulous restoration of the 16th-century frescoes was completed.

Thanks to these efforts, the community has regained a priceless historical and artistic heritage, ensuring that the beauty of St. Lucy’s Church continues to be appreciated for generations to come.

Use the map to explore

1 - The Square Arch

2 - Monument to Emanuele Gianturco

3 - Pontifical Minor Basilica of St. Mary of Mount Carmel

4 - Former Convent Complex of St. Mary of the Angels

5 - Saint Lucy’s Church

6 - Saint Vitus’ Church

7 - The Pantano Washhouse

8 - Church of Saint Philip Neri

9 - Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

10 - Lagopesole Castle

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