Le Monacelle

The story behind Le Monacelle gave our time there a special meaning. At UMANIAMO, symbolism matters to us, and we felt a strong connection between the venue's history and Castello Tramontano and Count Tramontano. In the early 1500s, the Count tried to control the people of Matera through a castle funded by oppressive taxes and acts of terror. On December 29, 1514, the townspeople rose against him. The unfinished Castle Tramontano still stands as a reminder of their courage and unity. Holding our event on the Street of Redemption, where the people rose, echoed our aim of bringing people together around peace and our shared humanity. We came to Le Monacelle for the UMANIAMO Festival, and the place was a remarkable setting for culture, art, and community. Beside the main cathedral, between the historic center and the Sassi, the old building looks out across the ravine to the Murgia and its ancient cave dwellings. Its architecture and history gave the festival a quiet, reflective atmosphere that seemed to invite creativity and connection. Stefano Siggillino and the whole team were committed partners from the planning stage onward. They helped with recommendations and logistics, accommodated our needs, and kept everything running smoothly. Whenever something came up, Stefano seemed to appear through a secret passage, ready to help. Their care for Matera's cultural heritage came through in everything. Our highlight was a groundbreaking heart coherence concert, a world-first made possible with local artists, data scientists, and international scientists. The history and atmosphere of Le Monacelle added another layer of meaning to it. This is a place where history, culture, and new ideas meet. It worked beautifully for our festival, and I can imagine it suiting exhibitions, concerts, intimate gatherings, corporate retreats, or workshops. The setting and views pull people away from the everyday and help them focus. On one planning visit, I observed a medical group meeting there and noticed an unusual level of focus, purpose, and collaboration. The place seemed to shape the outcome in a profound way. We're deeply grateful to Le Monacelle's staff and management for their care and support. The experience stayed with us, and we hope to work together again. I'd recommend Fondazione Le Monacelle to anyone wanting to experience Matera and give an event a lift in this one-of-a-kind setting.