MATERA MEL GIBSON'S CHOICE AGAIN
US/Australian film maker Mel Gibson has chosen once more the spectacular setting of the ancient cave-city of Matera (Basilicata) as the stunning backdrop for his sequel to “The Passion of Christ” made in 2004.
Gibson's new “Resurrection of Christ” focusses on the period immediately after the crucifixion and is provisionally scheduled to come out in 2027.
Over 80 films have been made in Matera and its surroundings lunar canyons, including the celebrated “No Time to Die” of the James Bond series, starring Daniel Craig, which also involved the nearby canyon towns of Pisticci and Craco.
Thanks also to the media attention Matera has become one of Italy's top tourist attractions, with its unique rocky chasms, galleries and early Christian decorated cave churches. Teams of skilled restorators are at present at work preserving the cycle of 8tht-9th century frescos decorating the walls of one of the most spectacular of these sanctuaries, created by the Benedictine monks and known as “the Crypt of Original Sin”. It was painted by an unknown artist (or team of artists) referred to as “the Painter of the Flowers of Matera” due to the cascades of roses around the figures of the Virgin and saints. The cave, discovered in 1963, is also often referred to as “the Sistine Chapel of Matera” due to its lavish decoration. The delicate restoration and preservation work is sustained by the Zetema cultural Foundation, with funding from a group of Italian banking foundations.
Open for regular guided tours every day except Sunday. Prior booking required.
Info: Tel. +35.3203345323