Why ‘The Chosen’ Filmed Season 6 Scenes in Matera, Italy

the chosen matera
View of Sasso Caveoso, Matera, Italy. May 3, 2022. Bernard Gagnon, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Share

Matera’s ancient churches and centuries of Christian tradition add further resonance. Its carved chapels and enduring faith communities echo the witness of believers across time—reminding viewers that the gospel is a living story carried through generations.

Behind the Scenes in Matera

Filming in such a historic city has challenges. Narrow passageways, fragile terrain, and preservation concerns require careful planning. Yet cast and crew have noted that working in Matera added weight to their performances. George H. Xanthis told the Associated Press that performing in Matera has helped enhanced his performance as the Apostle John.

The environment itself became part of the storytelling in “The Chosen” as streets that have stood for centuries brought a sense of realism and reverence that cannot be replicated on a soundstage.

Matera’s Role in a Defining Season

By filming in Matera, “The Chosen” team affirms their commitment to authenticity, artistry, and theological depth. The city is not just a backdrop but almost a character in the story—its stones bearing witness to the retelling of the most important week in history.

Matera provides the perfect canvas for portraying the Passion narrative with power and reverence. For viewers, it adds a layer of richness that makes the story of Jesus not only retold but also freshly alive.

Continue reading on the next page

Staff
ChurchLeaders staff contributed to this article.

Read more

Latest Articles