Built in the early 14th century for the confraternity of the Battuti, two inscriptions commemorate the construction of the bell tower in 1415 and the completion of the building in 1441. Originally rich in works of art (Alvise Vivarini, Paris Bordon, Carlo Caliari) dispersed after the suppression of 1806. The carved Gothic portal was transferred in 1893 to the church of S. Stefano.
Part of the State Archive of Belluno, the church of Santa Maria dei Battuti (early 14th century) arose as a place of worship for the adjacent School of the Flagellants. Over the centuries, it was enriched with works of high artistic level, which, with the Napoleonic suppressions of the early decades of the 19th century, were dispersed, sold, or transferred, as happened with the beautiful altarpiece by Paris Bordon, now preserved at the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin.
A recent restoration has redeemed the church from two centuries of abandonment, enhancing the wide and bright nave with a balanced dialogue between ancient 15th-century structures and contemporary service systems. Designed for modern and flexible use, it is equipped with a conference stage, seating, audio system, display cases, wiring system, elevator, underfloor and wall heating, sanitary facilities, and everything necessary to present the ancient building among the largest and most prestigious multifunctional halls in the province of Belluno.
A small oak park borders the church and is accessible exclusively from the conference room and the State Archive; from the viewpoint, there is a suggestive view of the Ardo valley.
From the garden, it is possible to access – by prior arrangement – the main complex of the State Archive (the ancient headquarters of the Confraternity or School of Santa Maria dei Battuti): in the study room, one can admire frescoes along the walls from the late 15th century, while the ceiling is decorated with 44 small painted wooden panels, all dating to the late 15th century. The excellent natural acoustics and the surrounding silence make the ancient church an excellent recording venue for classical music concerts. Created from the nave of the church and placed below the mezzanine, there is also a square room particularly suitable for video projections and small meetings.
