About Saint Matthew:
One of the early followers of Jesus, Matthew was a Jew who worked for the occupying Romans as a tax collector. These men were called “publicans” and were despised as traitors by their fellow Jews. Not only did they collect taxes for the Romans, but they collected more than was required and pocketed the difference. That Jesus would choose to dine with such a man…and call him to be one of His followers, shocked the pharisees.
He pointed out “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners” (Matthew 9:12b-13).
About the Cathedral of Saint Matthew in Salerno:
In 1081, shortly after completion, the relics of the apostle Matthew, patron saint of the city, were buried in the crypt in the presence of Alfano I, Emperor Michele and Duke Roberto il Guiscardo. Pope Gregory VII officially consecrated the Basilica. The Basilica was destroyed in an earthquake on June 5, 1688 and and rebuilt in the 17th century.
The Basilica is beautiful in its own right, with beautiful works of art throughout. The double main altar enables two separate Masses to be celebrated simultaneously.
The “Treasure Chapel” contains the arm of Saint Matthew as well as a statue of the Salerno Martyrs.
The crypt area, underneath the main altar, is magnificent and perhaps the most significant feature is the tomb of Saint Matthew.
Finding the Cathedral of Saint Matthew:
Salerno is located southeast of Naples, and a short 40-50 minute train ride from the city. It is also a popular cruise port…and one of the few where ships can actually dock rather than anchoring offshore and ferrying passengers in to town. The Cathedral itself is in the heart of town and easy to find.
Address: Piazza Alfano I, 84125 Salerno SA, Italy
Tel: (+39) 089 231387
Click here for the official website of the Cathedral of Saint Matthew in Salerno.
