Palazzo dell'Annunziata

Palazzo dell'Annunziata is an 18th-century baroque palace whose facade is marked by a central archway and a decorated cornice topped with a clock. The building now houses a library with reading rooms and research facilities open to the public.

Construction started in 1734 under architect Vito Valentino but was interrupted by disputes, with Mauro Manieri completing it in 1747. These delays reflected the complex building projects that were common in Matera during that period.

The Provincial Library inside carries the name of a notable local writer and preserves manuscripts and printed texts that visitors can study. People come here to explore historical documents and artifacts connected to the region.

The building sits at Piazza Vittorio Veneto and is easy to find while walking through Matera's center. The reading rooms are accessible to students, researchers, and the general public, making a visit feasible at various times.

The central archway was originally meant for church access but was converted into a cinema hall while keeping its architectural features intact. This unexpected transformation shows how historic spaces can adapt to new purposes.