The freshness and elegance of the Cripta del Peccato Originale is testament to a style of execution that is rare in medieval sacred art in the Mediterranean region. The murals of this place of worship frequented by a small community of monks date from the 8C-9C. They are by an unknown artist, nicknamed the "flower painter of Matera", associated with southern Italy's tradition of Lombard painting, with a wealth of Byzantine influences. Light effects show the paintings off to their advantage.