Built in the early 14th century for the confraternity of the Battuti, two inscriptions recall the construction of the bell tower in 1415 and the completion of the building in 1441. Originally rich in artworks (Alvise Vivarini, Paris Bordon, Carlo Caliari) which were dispersed after the suppression in 1806. The sculpted 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 Flagellants. Over the centuries, it enriched itself with high-level artistic works, which, due to the Napoleonic suppressions in the early decades of the 19th century, were dispersed, sold, or transferred, as happened with the beautiful altarpiece by Paris Bordon, now housed at the Bode Museum in Berlin.
A recent restoration has redeemed the church from two centuries of abandonment, enhancing the wide and brightly lit nave with a balanced dialogue between ancient 15th-century structures and contemporary service installations. 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, restrooms, and everything necessary to present the ancient building among the largest and most prestigious multifunctional spaces in the province of Belluno.
A small oak park surrounds the church and is accessible exclusively from the conference room and the State Archive; from the viewpoint, one can enjoy a captivating view of the Ardo valley.
From the garden, it is possible to access – with prior permission – the main complex of the State Archive (the ancient seat 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, also 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 located below the mezzanine, there is also a square room particularly suitable for video projections and small meetings.
