The church of San Nicola di Genna stands in the open countryside, in the Genna district, just over two kilometers from the center of Castellana Grotte, approximately 365 meters above sea level. It is located at the intersection of seven ancient rural roads, in an area once covered with vineyards.
The name of the place, Genna, appears in a document from the year 944, a sign that this area was known and frequented since the early Middle Ages. In subsequent centuries, the area was part of the ancient Feud of Genna. Some historians believe that the current church may be the one dedicated to Santa Maria di Genna, mentioned in a papal bull of 1180. If this identification is correct, the building's origins would therefore be much older than its current appearance.
The church's current appearance dates back to the 16th century, when it was rebuilt or extensively renovated. Inside, a canvas depicting Saint Nicholas, painted in 1922 by the artist Elvira Tauro, is preserved.
Near the church are two other sites linked to its history: the Neviera di San Nicola di Genna, an underground space excavated in 1788 and recently restored, and the so-called Muro di Genna, the remains of a medieval wall whose original function is still unclear.
Every year, at the end of August, the church returns to the center of community life in Castellana Grotte thanks to the patronal festival in honor of Saint Nicholas. The celebration includes the traditional diana, Holy Mass, a procession, the accompaniment of a musical band, and fireworks. The event is sponsored by the Municipality of Castellana-Grotte and organized by a local committee.