Tucked into a ravine outside Matera rather than within the Sassi themselves, this cave church holds what specialists have called the Sistine Chapel of rock-cut churches: a fresco cycle likely painted in the 9th century, its Old Testament scenes, including the temptation of Adam and Eve that gives the crypt its name, attributed to an anonymous artist known only as the Flower Painter for his decorative floral borders.
Careful modern conservation has stabilized colours that stayed hidden and protected for over a thousand years precisely because the site was so remote, and visits are strictly controlled to keep it that way.
