Tempietto Bramante: a miniature temple that has become a masterpiece. The most interesting churches and cathedrals in Rome Catholic churches in Rome
If you travel to Rome, you are probably preparing to encounter ancient history and beautiful art. Indeed, in Rome, the history of the formation of the entire European civilization comes to life before amazed travelers. Moreover, numerous architectural, sculptural and artistic masterpieces are not necessarily “hidden” in palaces. Works of art can be found in almost any part of the city, in almost any alley! And the special “guardians” of the cultural and historical treasures of the Eternal City are the cathedrals and churches of Rome. You can find everything there - a rich history, expressive architecture, unique paintings and sculptural masterpieces, and, of course, priceless Christian relics. We invite you to take a look with us at the most famous and interesting basilicas and churches in Rome and find out what treasures they hold.
Main cathedrals of Rome
The Catholic Church identifies several of the most significant among the many Roman churches. These are the so-called “papal basilicas” (Basilica Papale), which have a special status in the Catholic world and report directly to the Pope. Officially, they are part of the Vatican, no matter where they are located geographically. Let's take a look at some of them - the most famous and interesting for tourists.
St. Peter's Cathedral (Basilica di San Pietro)
St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is the largest Christian cathedral in Rome and one of the largest in the world. But it is famous not only for its grandiose size. The architectural harmony and luxury of the temple’s decoration amazes the imagination. And this is not surprising, because such masters as Michelangelo (the author of the famous dome of the cathedral), Bernini (the creator of the amazing colonnade on the square), Raphael, Bramante and many other outstanding architects, sculptors and painters worked on the construction and decoration of the cathedral.
St. Peter's Basilica is the heart of the Vatican. And the heart of the cathedral itself is the tomb of St. Apostle Peter. It is above her that the main altar of the basilica is located; it was because of her and for her sake that a temple was built on this site back in the 4th century. In addition, St. Peter's Cathedral houses many other relics and, of course, unique works of art.
St. Peter's Cathedral is so large that, according to legend, an entire army of soldiers was somehow “lost” in it - they say that the commander who was late for duty simply did not notice them. What can we say about tourists who find it so difficult to understand all the variety of interesting artifacts of the cathedral! In order not to get lost in the cultural and historical richness of this temple, explore it with our audio guide! We have created a fascinating audio tour “” so that St. Peter’s Cathedral will open up for you and reveal some of its secrets, stories and legends. Download the Travelry guide with audio guide so you don't miss the most striking masterpieces and most important relics of St. Peter's Basilica.
Opening hours of St. Peter's Cathedral: from October 1 to March 31 – 7.00-18.30 (closed January 1 and 6); from April 1 to September 30 – 7.00-19.00.
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Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, or Lateran Basilica of St. John, is one of the first Christian churches of the Eternal City. This majestic cathedral was founded back in the 4th century, under Emperor Constantine the Great. It is also called the “archibasilica,” that is, the main basilica. Yes, yes, this particular Cathedral of Rome, in terms of its official status, is the main one in the Catholic world, even more important than St. Peter's Cathedral in the Vatican! After all, it was here, in Laterano, that the residence of the popes was once located. And until 1870, the elevation to the papal rank took place in this cathedral.
The interior of this grandiose basilica impresses with its grandeur and solemnity. An attentive traveler will find a lot of interesting things in it, especially if with him. Mosaic floor, beautiful statues of the apostles, 13th century mosaic behind the central altar, 16th century organ, magnificent reliquaries…. The temple contains important shrines - the heads of the holy apostles Peter and Paul, as well as part of the table at which Christ and the apostles ate the Meal at the Last Supper.
Address: Piazza di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 4
Opening hours: 7.00 – 18.30 (without lunch).
Learn about the Lateran Basilica with many interesting facts and stories with an audio tour " ”, which is available in our Rome guide for iPhone.
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
There is a beautiful legend about the construction of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. This fragment of ours is about him:
Built back in the 4th century, Santa Maria Maggiore is not only one of the oldest, but also the fourth largest church in Rome. However, despite its grandeur, the cathedral contains very touching relics. Among them are fragments of a wooden manger, in which, according to legend, the baby Jesus lay. Another shrine of the temple is the ancient miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. It is believed that it was written by the holy evangelist Luke. The icon is called “The Salvation of the Roman People,” which is associated with one of the many miracles - the salvation of Rome from the plague epidemic, which occurred in the 6th century through prayers to the Mother of God.
Particularly noteworthy in the cathedral are the ancient mosaics of the 5th century, the luxurious design of the side chapels (especially the Borghese Chapel), the ancient mosaic floor, the majestic coffered ceiling of the 15th century and many other amazing and beautiful details that make up the majestic appearance of the temple.
The cathedral is dominated by a 75-meter Romanesque bell tower, which is considered the tallest in Rome.
Address: Piazza di S. Maria Maggiore, 42
Opening hours: 7.00 – 18.45 (without lunch).
If you are planning to visit the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and are traveling around Rome with an iPhone, we recommend downloading the audio tour " ", in which a detailed and interesting story is dedicated to this cathedral.
Basilica of St. Paul "Beyond the Walls" (San Paolo fuori le mura)
One of the main papal basilicas in Rome. The basilica was founded under Emperor Constantine in the 4th century at the resting place of the Holy Apostle Paul. It is this most important Christian relic that still attracts many pilgrims here. In the courtyard of the temple (created in the 13th century) many other shrines are kept. And the luxurious interior of the basilica impresses with an abundance of beautiful works of art.
Address: Piazzale di San Paolo, 1
Opening hours: 7.00-18.30.
Secrets of antiquity: ancient frescoes, Byzantine mosaics and ancient artifacts
Church Santa Maria in Trastevere(Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere)
One of the oldest Roman churches, built in the 3rd century, even before the official adoption of Christianity! This church is considered the first official Christian temple in Rome. The basilica acquired its Baroque façade already at the beginning of the 17th century. However, despite a number of reconstructions, elements of medieval decoration are well preserved in the church. In particular, the beautiful 12th-century mosaics decorating the façade of the church, as well as the frescoes inside by Pietro Cavallini.
Address: Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere
Opening hours: 7.30 – 21.00, in August 8.00-12.00 and 16.00-21.00.
Church of San Clemente (Basilica diSan Clemente)
The Church of San Clemente is also one of the oldest in Rome. While visiting this church, you can study different eras, plunging into the depths of centuries. The fact is that under the main building of the 11th-12th centuries (which in itself deserves attention) an older church, built back in 385, has been preserved. And even lower, under the early Christian basilica, you can see a piece of antiquity! On the lowest level are the ruins of a pagan temple dating from the 3rd century and the ruins of an ancient city from the 1st century - what remained after the great fire of 64 AD, attributed to Nero. An underground river still flows there - part of an ancient Roman aqueduct.
To go down to the lower levels, you must purchase a ticket.
Address: Via Labicana, 95
Opening hours: weekdays 9.00-12.30 and 15.00-18.00; Sundays and holidays 12.00 – 18.00.
Church of Saint Pudenziana (Chiesa di SantaPudenziana al Viminale)
Among the oldest churches in Rome, the Church of St. Pudenziana also stands out. It was built on the site where the house of the Roman senator Puda, father of Saint Pudenziana, once stood. The remains of an ancient 1st century house belonging to Pudu (Palazzo di San Pudente) are located under the church. It was in this house that the first Christian community of Rome met. Senator Pud received the apostles Peter and Paul, as well as other believers, in his home. An ancient tradition calls him “a friend of the apostles.” Subsequently, Pud himself was canonized among the 70 holy apostles. And the church is dedicated to one of his daughters - Saint Pudenziana.
In the second century, baths were built on the site of Puda's house. And at the end of the 4th century, after the adoption of Christianity, one of the first Roman churches appeared here. The church was rebuilt several times over the centuries. The church is notable for its ancient mosaic above the main altar in the semi-dome - it dates from the end of the 4th - beginning of the 5th century and is considered one of the oldest in Rome. In addition, ancient paintings and frescoes attract attention.
Now the Church of Santa Pudenziana is the national church of the Filipino community in Rome.
Address: Via Urbana, 160
Opening hours: 8.30 – 12.00 and 15.00 – 18.00 (break from 12 to 15.00)
Church of Saint Praxeda (Santa Prassede all'Esquilino)
The church was built in the 9th century by Pope Paschal and dedicated to Pudenziana's sister, another daughter of Puda, Saint Praxeda. According to legend, together with her sister Pudenziana, Saint Praxeda sheltered persecuted Christians in her house (they lived during times of severe persecution, in the 1st century), took care of them, and buried martyrs. The relics of the holy sisters rest in the underground crypt of the church.
In this temple you cannot pass by the amazing chapel of St. Zeno. It is decorated with amazing colorful mosaics created by Byzantine craftsmen who took refuge in Rome from iconoclastic persecution.
On the right side of the Zeno Chapel is kept a great Christian relic - the “Colonna della Flagellazione”, the upper part of the pillar to which Jesus Christ was tied during the scourging. This relic was brought in 1223 from Constantinople. Two other parts of the same pillar are located in Jerusalem and Constantinople.
Address: Via di Santa Prassede, 9/a
Opening hours: weekdays 7.30 – 12.00 and 16.00 – 18.30, weekends 8.00 – 12.00 and 16.00 – 18.30.
http://www.romaspqr.it/
We visit all three churches mentioned above - San Clemente, Santa Praxeda and Santa Pudenziana - on an audio tour " » with a guide for iPhone Travelry. In it we remember the amazing history, the shrines of these places, and their cultural treasures.
Church of Santa Cecilia in Trasteverein Trastevere)
The church dedicated to Saint Cecilia, the patroness of music, has existed since the 5th century and, according to legend, was erected on the site of the house in which the saint lived. It is impossible to ignore and pass by the amazingly beautiful and tender sculpture by Stefano Maderno, depicting Saint Cecilia as, according to legend, she was discovered when her relics were found.
The church is also decorated with ancient mosaics from the 9th century, frescoes by Pietro Cavallini, and a Gothic canopy from the 13th century. And in the crypt of the basilica (the underground part) you can see a piece of antiquity - the remains of ancient buildings have been preserved there. In addition, under the altar there is a sargophagus with the relics of St. Cecilia.
Address: Piazza di Santa Cecilia, 22
Opening hours: 10.00-13.00 and 16.00-19.00.
Visiting the basilica is free, entry to the underground crypt costs € 2.50.You can view the medieval frescoes of Pietro Cavallini from 10.00 to 12.30 (€ 2.50).
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Masterpieces of painting and sculpture in the churches of Rome
Church of Santa Maria della Victoria
The Church of Santa Maria della Victoria, built in the 17th century, houses famous masterpieces of Baroque art. One of them is a sculptural composition by Bernini “ Ecstasy of Saint Teresa" Looking at this amazing sculpture, you involuntarily recall the words of Bernini himself: “I conquered marble and made it flexible, like wax, and thereby was able to a certain extent to combine sculpture with painting.” It sounds bold, but... look at the works of this sculptor and decide for yourself how true this statement is.
Also noteworthy in the interior of the church is Cornaro Chapel– its design is distinguished by deliberate theatricality, characteristic of the Baroque style.
Address: Via XX Settembre, 17
Opening hours: 8.30-12.00 and 15.30-18.00
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo (Santa Maria del Popolo)
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo in its current form is an example of the Roman Renaissance and modestly houses many cultural treasures. Among them - paintings by Caravaggio with scenes from the life of the holy apostles: “The Conversion of the Apostle Paul” and “The Crucifixion of St. Peter.” They are located in the Cerasi Chapel.
Also in the church you can see sculptures of the Baroque master Bernini, painting from sketches Raphael, frescoes Pinturicchio, works Sebastiano del Piombo and other famous artists.
Address: Piazza del Popolo, 12
Opening hours: all days except Friday and Saturday 7.30 – 12.30, 16.00 – 19.00, Fri. and Sat. 7.30 – 19.00 (without lunch).
We visit the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo on an audio tour " " While exploring the city with an audio guide, you will not miss the most interesting places and learn the most interesting stories about it.
Church of San Luigi dei Francesi (Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi)
In the church of San Luigi dei Francesi, built in the 16th century, you can see famous paintings by the mature Caravaggio. As many as three outstanding works of this master, lights and shadows, are in the Contarelli Chapel, in the left nave: “The Calling of the Apostle Matthew”, “St. Matthew and the Angel”, “The Martyrdom of St. Matthew”. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the frescoes Domenichino.
The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi is included in the audio tour route " » with a guide for iPhone Travelry. In it we will talk about the amazing paintings of the painter, and about the history and features of the church, and about many other interesting places in the center of Rome.
Address: Piazza di San Luigi dei Francesi, 5
Opening hours: 10.00-12.30, after a break 15.00-19.00, closed on Thursdays after lunch.
Church San Pietro in Vincoli(San Pietro in Vincoli)
The Church of San Pietro in Vincoli, or “St. Peter in chains,” was built in the 5th century specifically to store an important shrine - the chains of the Apostle Peter. The iron chains with which Saint Peter was shackled when he was detained for preaching about Christ are kept in a special reliquary under the main altar.
And in the 16th century, a masterpiece by the famous Renaissance master appeared here. Michelangelo – Moses sculpture. For her sake, many art lovers flock to this church. The sculptor conceived a grandiose composition, however, he was not able to fully realize it, since Michelangelo was “distracted” by working on St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The project was already completed by the master’s students, but even one mighty sculpture of Moses, created by his hands, is worthy of attention. In addition, the church contains interesting frescoes by masters of the 17th and 18th centuries.
The temple is located a little away from the well-known tourist trails, and therefore not all independent tourists manage to find it. But it was created to help travelers quickly navigate the city and find the places they are interested in, as well as learn a lot of interesting things about them (the application is currently only available for iPhone).
We tell you more about the history and treasures of this church, as well as the famous creation of Michelangelo in the audio tour "".
Address: Piazza S. Pietro in Vincoli, 4a
Opening hours: from April to September 8.00-12.30, 15.00-19.00; from October to March 8.00-12.30, 15.00-18.00.
Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
Jean-Christophe BENOIST, Wikimedia Commons
The Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, built in the 13th century, is considered the only Gothic church in Rome. In the basilica you can see frescoes by Filippo Lippi and a sculpture of Christ by Michelangelo (1521)
Address: Piazza della Minerva, 42
Opening hours: 07.10-19.00, Sun. 08.00-12.00 and 14:00-19.00
We visit the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva on an excursion " » with Travelry audio guide.
Churches of Rome with interesting architecture
Pantheon (Pantheon), Church of Santa Maria "At the Martyrs" (Santa Maria ad Martyres, Santa Maria della Rotonda)
The magnificent Pantheon is not only a unique architectural and engineering monument of antiquity, but also a Christian church. Once upon a time, back in 27 BC, a pagan sanctuary was built here. The temple acquired its famous architectural appearance after reconstruction in the 2nd century. It was then that an amazing dome with a hole (“the eye of the Pantheon”) and a round building – the rotunda – appeared. Until now, this grandiose structure is considered a miracle of engineering and a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
And in 609, the pagan “temple of all gods” turned into the Church of the Mother of God “At the Martyrs” (Santa Maria ad Martyres). Probably due to this, it has survived to this day almost unchanged. Why "At the Martyrs"? The name is due to the fact that 28 carts with the relics of the holy martyrs were transported here from the Roman catacombs. And in later centuries, the Pantheon became the tomb of famous people, including Raphael, the first king of United Italy, Vittorio Emmanuele II, and his son Umberto I. The second name of the church, Santa Maria della Rotonda, is associated with the round shape of the building.
Address: Piazza della Rotonda
Opening hours: Mon.-Sat. 08.30-19.30, Sun. 09.00-18.00.
Tourist visits are not allowed during church services (on Sundays and holidays at 10.30, on Saturdays at 17.00)
Listen to the audio tour about the amazing history and unique features of the ancient Pantheon “ “.
Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza
The Church of St. Ivo is one of the brightest examples of Baroque art and the extraordinary, even extravagant architectural style of Borromini. Dynamic architecture with bizarre curves creates the impression of movement, a rapid impulse, in which the building seems to freeze for a moment. The amazing graceful dome also attracts attention.
The church is located on Corso del Rinascimento, but is practically invisible from the street. In order to see it, you need to go into the yard.
Address: Corso del Rinascimento, 40 (entranceWithstreetsCorso del Rinasсimento)
You can visit the church only on Sundays from 9.00 to 12.00. From July to August it is closed even on Sundays.
The Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza is included in the route of our audio tour " ”, which is available in the Travelry mobile guide.
Church of the Gesù
The Church of the Jesuit Order, called del Gesù, is a brilliant example of Mannerism and exuberant Roman Baroque. The elegant church with luxurious decoration was built in the 16th century by the architects Vignola and della Porta. It is curious that the design proposed for this building by Michelangelo was rejected by the cardinal. The architecture of Il Gesu has become canonical for Jesuit churches around the world. Following its model, churches of the so-called “Society of Jesus” are built in Poland, Lithuania, Portugal, and Latin America. The founder of the Jesuit order, Ignatius of Loyola, is buried in the temple.
Address: Piazza del Gesù
Opening hours: 7.00-12.30 / 16.00-19.45
Church of San Carlo "At the Four Fountains" (San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane)
The amazing Church of San Carlo, or San Carlino, is located near the intersection of the Four Fountains. Not every tourist gets to this place, and loses a lot! After all, this is one of the main masterpieces of the architect Borromini. The dynamic shapes of the facade, the amazing play of light and shadow, wavy curves and other architectural features make this building an outstanding example of the Baroque style. Moreover, as executed by the talented and unfortunate architect Francesco Borromini, this style is completely unique and original. No wonder many foreign architects, stunned by Borromini’s work, tried to get sketches and copies of the building plan.
Address: Piazza Navona – Via S.Maria dell’Anima, 30/A – 00186 ROMA
Opening hours: weekdays 9.30-12.30, after a break 15.30-19.00, weekends and holidays 9.00-13.00, after a break 16.00-20.00, closed on Sundays.
Twin churches of Santa Maria di Montesano and Santa Maria dei Miracoli
On the south side of the square, opposite the Porta del Popolo arch, two twin temples stand out: Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, built according to the design of the architect C. Rainaldi in the 17th century. The buildings are located in a mirror manner and are an important part of the overall architectural ensemble of the square. They are incredibly similar, however, if you look at them very carefully (and especially if you see them in plan), you will notice that Santa Maria dei Miracoli is round, and Santa Maria in Montesanto is oval. This is due to the fact that the architect needed to somehow fit the building into the complex of pre-existing buildings.
Address: Piazza del Popolo
We will see the twin churches at the very beginning of the audio tour " ».
Roman relics revered by the Orthodox
Today Rome is known as the capital of the Catholic world. But this city is much older than the Catholic Church itself, and its significance for the entire Christian world is much greater and more important than it might seem. After all, long before the division of churches into Catholic and Orthodox occurred (and this tragic event occurred in 1054), Rome was the ancient cradle of all Christianity. It was in Rome that the holy apostles Peter and Paul preached, it was in Rome that they suffered and suffered martyrdom. During times of persecution, Rome showed the world countless Christian martyrs. And later, after the legalization of Christianity under Emperor Constantine the Great, it was here that magnificent Christian churches and basilicas began to grow, which became models for later buildings. It is not surprising that today Rome houses a great many common Christian relics that are revered by both Catholics and Orthodox Christians.
Shrines from Jerusalem
Many shrines came to Rome thanks to the active work of the holy Queen Helen, mother of Emperor Constantine. Already at a very old age, Elena undertook a long and difficult journey to the Holy Land, to Jerusalem, in order to find shrines associated with the earthly life of Jesus Christ. In those days this was an incredibly difficult task, because Jerusalem was completely destroyed in the 1st century. However, Elena was able to find and brought many important relics to Rome.
Among them - shrines associated with the sufferings of Jesus Christ on the cross. This is part of the Cross on which the Savior was crucified, a thorn from the crown of thorns, a nail that was used during execution, a tablet with the inscription of guilt attached to the Cross. The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem (Santa Croce in Gerusalemme) was built especially to store these shrines brought by Queen Helena. In addition, the cathedral houses the finger of St. Thomas the Apostle, the cross of the “prudent thief,” as well as a full-size copy of the Shroud of Turin.
There was also a staircase from Jerusalem to Rome, which was once located in the palace of Pontius Pilate. Jesus Christ, condemned to execution by Pilate, ascended and descended several times along it. Holy Staircase (ScalaSanta)– that’s what they call it in Rome. You are only allowed to climb these steps on your knees. The relic is kept in a special building next to the Lateran Basilica of San Giovanni, which we mentioned above. There was also the chapel “Holy of Holies” (Sancta Sanctorum), which received its name because of the many relics located in it.
The power itself Queen Helena rest in Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli on Capitol Hill. We visit it with By the way, this basilica is interesting in itself - its harsh appearance will take you to the Middle Ages, and the interior decoration will amaze you with its wealth and beauty.
The Church of Santa Prassede also houses the so-called " Flagellation Column“- part of the pillar to which Christ was tied during the scourging.
And in the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, high under the ceiling you can see tabletop on which the legendary “Last Supper” was celebrated.
We will see most of the shrines brought to Rome from Jerusalem on the “” tour with the Travelry audio guide. In this audio tour we will visit the unique ancient churches of Rome and learn a lot of interesting things about them.
Rome - the city of the apostles
The capital of the great ancient empire was at one time the center of European civilization, and therefore Christian preachers flocked here. Many of them met their death in Rome and still rest in the Eternal City. Saint's Tomb Apostle Peter(whom Catholics consider the first Pope) is located in St. Peter's Basilica in . And over the grave apostle paul the large Basilica of St. Paul “Beyond the City Walls” was built, which we also talked about above.
Heads of the apostles Peter and Paul are kept separately, in a special reliquary in the Church of St. John (San Giovanni) in Laterano. We talk a lot and interestingly about this church on a tour with an audio guide ““.
Roman martyrs and early Christian saints
Ancient fresco in the Basilica of San Clemente (life of St. Alexius, Man of God)
Christian pilgrims in Rome are also attracted to the churches in which the relics of early Christian martyrs and saints rest. There are a great many of them in the Eternal City. In particular, in Rome rest:
Great Martyr George the Victorious(Church of St. George in Velarbo – San Giorgio in Velarbo)
St. Alexius the Man of God and St. Boniface(Church of St. Bonifatius and Alexios on the Aventine Hill - SS. Bonifacio e Alessio)
St. Cosmas and Damian(under the main altar of the Church of Cosmas and Damiano on Via Fori Imperiali – Chiesa di Santi Cosma e Damiano). This church is included in the audio tour route ““.
Saint Cyril, one of the creators of the Slavic alphabet and educator of the Slavs (Basilica of San Clemente - Basilica di San Clemente, which we visit on the excursion “ “)
Hieromartyr Clement(Basilica of San Clemente – )
St. Eustathius Placidas(Church of Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon – Chiesa di S. Eustachio in Campo Marzio). We talk about this church, as well as about Saint Eustace, in the audio tour ““.
Holy Martyrs Archdeacons Stephen and Lawrence(Church of St. Lawrence “Behind the Walls” – Basilica di S. Lorenzo fuori le mura)
St. Cyprian and Justina(Lateran Baptistery – Battistero Lateranese, which is included in the audio tour “ “)
Holy Martyrs Chrysanthus and Darius, patrons of marriage (Church of the Twelve Apostles – Basilica dei SS. XII Apostoli, included in the free audio tour “ “)
St. Eugenia and her mother Claudia( – Basilica dei SS. XII Apostoli)
Holy Martyr Agnia(the head of the saint is kept in the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone in Piazza Navona, and the body is in the church of St. Agnes “Behind the Walls”, Chiesa di S. Agnes fuori le mura). About the Church of St. Agnes on Piazza Navona and we talk about the life of the saint herself in the excursion “” with an audio guide.
Saint Cecilia of Rome, patroness of music (Church of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere - Santa Cecilia in Trastevere)
Saint Anastasia of Sirmium(Church of Santa Anastasia al Palatino)
Saint Chrysogonus(Church of St. Crisogono in Trastevere – Basilica di San Crisogono)
St. Praxeda, Pudenziana and many martyrs(Church of St. Praxeda – Santa Prassede, which we visit on an excursion with an audio guide “ “)
St. Anne(in the reliquary located in the courtyard - Chiostro - of St. Paul's Cathedral "Beyond the Walls", San Paolo fuori le mura).
Miraculous icons in Rome
Despite the fact that the icon painting tradition developed primarily in the Eastern Orthodox Church, you can see several amazing ancient icons in the Eternal City. Some of them, according to legend, were written by the holy evangelist Luke.
One of the most famous and revered icons in Rome is the icon of the Virgin Mary, which is called here the “Salvation of the Roman People.” According to legend, the image was painted by the holy evangelist Luke. It is stored in Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (SantaMariaMaggiore).
Miraculous image “Salvation of the Roman people”
We talk about the amazing history of this icon and the miracles associated with it, as well as other relics and treasures of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in the “” tour with an audio guide in Rome.
And on the beautiful Aventine Hill, in Church of Saints Bonifatius and Alexios (Santi Bonifacio e Alessio), the ancient miraculous icon of the Mother of God “Edessa” is kept, which came to Rome presumably in the 10th century. The Romans call her Madonna di San Alessio.
Icon of the Mother of God “Edessa” (Madonna di San Alessio)
At the top of Capitol Hill, in Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, above the main altar is a revered Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary, dating back to the 10th century. You can learn about the history and features of this place in the audio tour ““.
The miraculous image of the Mother of God in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli (Madonna Aracoeli)
The miraculous icon of the Mother of God, dating back to the 10th century, is quietly kept in Church of Santa Maria in Via Lata (SantaMariainviaLata) on Corso street. We visit it in the free audio tour “”.
Russian Orthodox churches in Rome
Orthodox tourists and pilgrims are often interested in questions: are there Russian Orthodox churches in Rome, and how to find them. There are, and even two! One of them - Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker- located in the ancient building of the mansion of Princess M. A. Chernysheva (Palazzo Czernycheff), who bequeathed her house on Via Palestro to the Russian Church back in 1897. Since the church is located in a residential mansion, it is easy to miss: there is no dome or external signs characteristic of churches, only a modest sign at the entrance. But once inside, Russian visitors, no matter where they come from, feel “at home.”
Another Russian church in Rome is still quite young, but you definitely won’t confuse it with any other: the characteristic “onion” domes and the general appearance of the building clearly indicate that this is a Russian Orthodox Church. This Church of St. Catherine, located near the Vatican.
Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Rome
Address: via Palestro, 69/71
www.romasannicola.it
Russian Church of St. Catherine
Address: Via del LagoTerrione, 77/79
www.stcaterina.com
Where and how to find all these places in Rome if you are traveling on your own?
If you are traveling with an iPhone, we recommend downloading . It will help you not get lost and easily find the churches we mentioned, as well as other attractions of Rome. In addition, in the guide you will find information about the opening hours of many places, their photographs and other useful information. And our Masterpieces and relics " and find out:
By Manfred Heyde, via Wikimedia Commons
Where do Byzantine mosaics come from in Rome?
Some ancient churches in Rome are decorated with incredibly beautiful mosaics created by Byzantine masters. How did these masters suddenly end up in Rome? This was during the time of iconoclastic persecution in Byzantium, when the creators and admirers of any iconographic images were brutally persecuted. But Pope Paschal I received and sheltered in Rome Byzantine craftsmen who fled from the Eastern Empire. Gathering them under his wing, he began decorating Roman churches with Byzantine mosaics.
By Livioandronico2013, via Wikimedia Commons
Why are some churches in Rome called basilicas? What is a basilica and why is it special?
The first basilicas appeared in ancient Rome. This was the name for buildings (in the ancient period these were administrative buildings), arranged inside in the form of a rectangular space divided by columns into an odd number of parts. The ancient Romans, in turn, borrowed this method of organizing space from the Greeks. And later, architects began to use such a device in the construction of Christian churches. The rectangular spaces of the church, separated by rows of columns, are called naves. In Christian basilicas, the main nave is perpendicularly intersected by the so-called transept (transverse nave). Thus, a cruciform arrangement of space is formed.
Initially, the concept of “basilica” meant precisely an architectural device. But over time, this name also developed into a special title that is given to important churches in the Catholic Church. Only the Pope can assign such an honorary title to a temple.
- Consider the operating mode of basil. Only the largest of them work without lunch. And most close for a day break, which lasts 2-4 hours. In our you will find information about the opening hours of most Roman churches and other tourist sites.
- When visiting the cathedrals and churches of Rome, you should remember the dress code. In very short skirts, shorts or bare shoulders, you may simply not be allowed in.
- In some churches, you can turn on special lighting for an additional fee to better view the ancient mosaics. For example, in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore or in the Church of Santa Prassede.
- In Roman churches it is not customary to venerate relics or icons - there is simply no such tradition in Catholicism. As a rule, shrines are kept either very high or hidden under the altar, and therefore it is impossible to get close to them. But no one stops believers from praying near the shrine.
- Many Roman churches are “equipped” with real “time machines”! Temples with a rich history often have underground crypts in which you can see the remains of more ancient buildings, ancient frescoes or mosaics. Going down to the underground level, you can “look” into the first centuries of our era. Entrance to the crypto is usually paid. We also talk about some of these temples.
- Another interesting “secret” of ancient Roman basilicas: some of them have a special courtyard called Chiostro. Entrance to it is usually paid. Once there, you will find yourself in a small atrium - a cozy open courtyard, which is usually decorated with flowers, greenery, often a fountain, and is surrounded by an elegant colonnade. Such courtyards exist, in particular, in the basilicas of San Giovanni in Laterano and San Paolo “Beyond the Walls”. Few tourists know about the courtyard, yet it is often one of the most picturesque parts of the basilica.
Sublime beauty requires bold engineering solutions. The dome is the pinnacle of architectural construction, literally and figuratively. So the most complex element of the building becomes the simplest landmark on the ground. This is especially noticeable in Italy
1. Rome
Pantheon
One of the oldest (almost 2000 years old) and largest (43.3 m in height and diameter) concrete dome in the world, supported only by walls. You can fit a regular sphere into it, which will touch the floor of the temple exactly in the center: the diameter of the rotunda is equal to the diameter of the dome and the height of the structure. The Pantheon symbolizes space, the place of the sun in which is occupied by a nine-meter round hole (oculus) in the center of the dome. This is the only source of light: on a sunny day the rays become almost tangible. When it rains, jets of water penetrate through the oculus, and drains are provided in the floor. In the Middle Ages there were legends that a hole in the ceiling was made by evil spirits that rushed about at the sounds of the first mass. The temple was consecrated as a Christian church in 609; before that it was pagan.
2. San Remo, Liguria
Cathedral of Christ the Savior
The Orthodox church, built in 1913 according to the design of the Russian architect Alexei Shchusev (later winner of four Stalin Prizes), is crowned with five colorful domes. The building is made in the style of Russian patterning, characteristic of the 16th–17th centuries (St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow).
3. Rome
Saint Paul's Cathedral
Michelangelo began designing the dome in 1546 and was limited by the framework set by the cathedral's previous architects. The framework, however, did not prevent him from creating an ingenious structure. The diameter of the dome is 41.5 m, and the height of the cathedral with the cross is 133.3 m. The Romans call it cupolone(dome). To get to the top, you need to climb 551 steps.
4. Rovereto, Trentino - Alto Adige
Museum of Contemporary Art MART
The building of one of the most important museums of avant-garde painting in Italy matches its contents. Inside the four-story ring structure is a circular courtyard covered with a dome made of plexiglass and steel. It is close in size and shape to the dome of the Pantheon. Below, exactly under the hole, there is the same round fountain.
5. Pisa, Tuscany
Baptistery of St. John
Construction of the Baptistery began in 1152 in the Romanesque style, and was completed in the 1300s in the Gothic style. And at the last stage of architectural transformations, a second, round one was built around the first, pyramidal dome. The unusual design ultimately provided unique acoustics: when the choir sings in the baptismal church, it can be heard within a kilometer radius. The top of the dome is crowned with a statue of John the Baptist.
6. Naples, Campania
Gallery Umberto I
The Galleria, named after the second king of Italy, is a huge indoor shopping complex built in 1890 as part of the massive reconstruction of Naples. The four streets of the cruciform gallery converge under one huge glass dome with 16 metal ribs. The floor under the dome is paved with mosaics: images of the zodiac signs are located around the compass rose. There is a tradition of making a wish while standing on your sign.
7. Alghero, Sardinia
St. Michael's Church
The facade and walls of the baroque church from the early 17th century look rather modest. Against their background, the octagonal dome, lined with multi-colored “scales” of tiles, seems like a New Year’s toy. No wonder: this is a creative work from the mid-20th century. Despite the controversy of this architectural solution, the dome became, as often happens, one of the symbols of the city.
8. Turin, Piedmont
Church of St. Lawrence
The temple, created in the Piedmontese Baroque style, would have looked like a secular building from the outside if not for the extravagant dome. It looks especially impressive from the inside. Due to the repetition of the octahedron motif in detail, the illusion of an infinite perspective arises.
9. Palermo, Sicily
Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
The cathedral, founded in the 12th century, was constantly reconstructed and improved. The last grandiose reconstruction began at the end of the 18th century. It was then that the structure acquired a majestic classical central dome and almost lost its original Arab-Norman appearance, becoming eclectic.
10. Venice, Veneto
St. Mark's Basilica
A unique example of Byzantine architecture for Western Europe. The temple is built in the form of a Greek cross and is topped with five oriental-style domes created in the 13th century. The Venetians were inspired by these forms during the Crusades. The inside of the dome is richly decorated with mosaics.
11. Ischia
Church of the Immaculate Conception
The dome of the temple, built in the 18th century, is the main decoration of the powerful Aragonese castle. The impressive dome cost the Clarissa sisters from the local monastery so much that there was no money left to decorate the temple. It's all white inside. It is now used for exhibitions of painting and sculpture.
12. Cuneo, Piedmont
Sanctuary of Vicoforte
One of the largest domes in the world and perhaps the largest of the elliptical ones: the diameter of the major axis is more than 37 meters, the small axis is 28.8 meters. In 1732, when construction was completed, no one believed that the dome would hold. Therefore, the architect Francesco Gallo himself went to dismantle the scaffolding after the work was completed.
13. Florence, Tuscany
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The red brick dome of the Duomo, the symbol of the city, is an example of how harmony can be believed by algebra. In the 15th century, the architect Brunelleschi accurately calculated the parameters of the 37-ton octagonal dome and invented lifting machines. The inside of the dome is painted with paintings of the Last Judgment. The fresco represents the entire Christian cosmology: from Christ above to Satan below.
14. Novara, Piedmont
Basilica of Saint Gaudentius
The multi-tiered dome rises more than 120 meters above the ground. Due to the weight of the dome (5572 tons), even at the stage of its construction in the 19th century, the building began to sag. It was necessary to expand and strengthen the load-bearing pylons and foundation. Today the basilica is equipped with an electronic security system similar to the one in the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Photo: LEGION-MEDIA (X2), CORBIS / EAST NEWS (X2), LEGION-MEDIA (X2), CORBIS / EAST NEWS (X2), LEGION-MEDIA (X2), CORBIS / EAST NEWS (X2)
Illusions and secrets of Roman temples April 27th, 2016
So, today I promised entertaining stories. About illusions - and more.
Let's start with Aventine.
The Temple of San Sabina is located on the Aventine - this is the main temple of the Dominicans. Its austere side façade faces the orange garden with stunning views of Rome.
Yesterday I entertained you with the interior decorations of temples, and today there will be fairy tales))
Legend tells that in 1220 Saint Domenico prayed at the door of the church.
Hearing the prayers, the devil climbed onto the roof of the church and forcefully pushed a stone from there, which fell almost on the head of the worshiper... but fell nearby, without even causing a scratch to the Saint...
They say that sometimes, at the entrance to a church, a sad figure freezes... it stands for a moment, and then disappears again... it lingers for a moment in its slide through Rome, the devil, regretting what did not come true..
And the stone is still in the church. Take a closer look at the small column in the left corner of the hall, there you will see a black slippery stone with claw marks... the devil's stone - Pietra del Diavolo.
The Church of Sant'Ignazio de Loyola is located in the square of the same name.
Some, remembering that the name is associated with the Jesuits, go for miracles to the main church of the order - Gesu, in Piazza Gesu. This time I myself witnessed that tourists were sitting on benches, their heads were thrown back, they were looking up and cameras were pointed there. They think that the dome is not real.
But there are no miracles. Regular dome. It’s just that the Church of Jesus is easy to find - you can see it from afar, especially from Largo Argentina. And you need to look for San Ignazio, between the parliament and the Pantheon.
Let's enter the church... we will see a marble circle on the floor near the central nave. Stand on it and raise your head: the dome of the church rises above you.
Nothing special, but.. in fact there is no dome. This is the famous fresco by Andrea Pozzo (late 16th century) which seems to “break through” the ceiling, creating the illusion of a dome.
Four hundred years ago, a three-dimensional illusion was created; they say that the figures we see on the ceiling also do not exist :)
If we go a little forward, closer to the altar, to the center of the temple, then everything seems to be normal - columns, ceiling, dome with a diameter of 17 meters...
Step to the side and.. yes, the dome is drawn!
You stand under him - there he is, stepped aside - and you understand that this is only an illusion.
The world of Roman Baroque can present even worse surprises!
Leave the temple carefully - what if there are no doors either? :)
By the way, the Church of Jesus-Gesu has its own story, even Stendhal once retold it.
One day, while having fun, the Devil and the Wind were flying over Rome.
While flying over the Church of Jesus, the Devil decided to joke:
“Wait for me here,” said the Devil, “I have one small business in the church.” And he entered her door.
Until now, it is always windy in this place, in any weather and at any time of the year, this wind has long been waiting for the Devil, who, having entered, remained inside it, turning into an element of decor. The strength of the Jesuits was such that the Devil could never leave the church, and he remained an internal architectural element.
And now, as promised, about the unusual Roman church.
It is located in San Silvestro Square, and when we lived nearby, near the parliament, we often ran through this square. From here the bus goes to the station, and in many other directions.
But I haven’t entered a church until this day, an ordinary Roman church, you never know, they’re at every turn.
I walked in and couldn’t believe my eyes.
This is a small inside, but very cozy, despite the abundance of traditional decorations, church of San Silvestro in Capite.
It received its name in honor of Pope Slvester, and the words “In Capite” were added later when a relic, part of the Head of John the Baptist, appeared in the temple.
But before you go inside, you enter the gate and find yourself in a courtyard, in comparison with which the famous Roman courtyard, which we all love to photograph, is simply relaxing.
Hiding its treasures behind the façade, the church was built in the 7th century on the site of the Roman Temple of the Sun, so everything you see here is authentic.
So again, to be continued.
Task No. 84. Solve the crossword puzzle “Remember the history of Ancient Rome”
Horizontally: 2. Poet, author of the poem “Aeneid” (Virgil). 4. A scientist who argued that people should persevere in all adversities; committed suicide on the orders of Nero (Seneca). 6. The largest amphitheater, accommodating about 50 thousand spectators (Colosseum). 7. A temple in Rome, topped with a dome that looks like half a ball (Pantheon). 8. General, famous for the conquest of Gaul; established sole power in Rome (Caesar). 9. The poet who called his poems a timeless monument (Horace). 12. A title whose bearer had unlimited power and was not obliged to give an account to anyone for his actions (dictator). 14. The last queen of Egypt (Cleopatra). 18. Farmers who took land for cultivation (columns) for a fee. 20. Germanic tribe that captured Rome in 410 (Goths). 21. Roman commander, defeated by the Germans, who completely destroyed three legions (Var). 23. The river, crossing which Caesar said: “The die is cast!” (Rubicon). 24. Ruler of Rome, who achieved the end of civil wars (Octavian). 25. Caesar's unfaithful friend, one of his murderers (Brutus). 26. According to the Romans, “the best of emperors,” who stopped executions based on false denunciations (Trajan). 29. The last emperor of the Western Roman Empire (Romulus). 30. Country on the Balkan Peninsula, homeland of Spartak (Thrace). 31. Roman historian who condemned in his books the cruelties of Nero and other emperors (Tacitus). 32. Brothers who came from a noble plebeian family; spoke out in defense of the landowners of Italy (Gracchi).
Vertically: 1. The council, which had great influence on the Romans, at the meeting of which Caesar was killed (Senate). 2. The mountain on top of which was the first Spartacist camp (Vesuvius). 3. The word used to describe the rulers of Rome who single-handedly ruled the state after the fall of the republic (emperor). 4. The leader of the rebel slaves, a native of Thrace (Spartacus). 5. The main character of Virgil's poem (Aeneas). 8. Construction for horse competitions (circus). 9. Roman province conquered by Caesar (Gaul). 10. A mixture of pebbles and sand with lime mortar was used in construction (concrete). 11. Roman commander who died in the war with the Parthian kingdom (Crassus). 13. Roman baths (therms). 14. The emperor who allowed Christians to build churches and openly pray (Constantine). 15. Roman commander who was defeated at the Battle of Cape Actium (Antony). 16. Commander, Caesar’s main opponent in the struggle for power (Pompey). 17. A Germanic tribe that captured Rome in the mid-5th century and subjected it to terrible devastation (Vandals). 18. The city where the uprising of Spartacus began (Capua). 19. The shape of the front gate, erected in honor of the military victory of the Romans (arch). 21. The word that the Greeks and Romans used to call peoples whose language they did not understand (barbarians). 22. Octavian’s honorary nickname, given to him by the Senate after the end of the civil wars (August). 25. The strait on the European shore of which Constantinople (Bosphorus) was built. 27. Leader of the Goths who captured Rome in 410 (Alaric). 28. Cape near the western shores of the Balkan Peninsula, near which a naval battle took place between Anthony and Octavian (Actium)
Task No. 85. Answer the questions
Who spoke these words? For what reason?
1. One more such victory, and we will die!
King Pyrrhus of Epirus after defeating the Romans in a battle where his troops suffered heavy losses
2. Even wild animals have holes and lairs, and those who fought and died for Rome have nothing but air and light!
Tiberius Gracchus about the Roman legionnaires who gradually lost their land and joined the ranks of the poor of Rome
3. Carthage must be destroyed!
Senator Cato ended each of his speeches in the Senate with these words - he was concerned about the highly developed trade and economy of Carthage
4. The die is cast!
Julius Caesar as his troops crossed the Rubicon and headed towards Rome
5. Var, give me back my legions!
Emperor Augustus, after the death of three Roman legions under the command of Varus, ambushed by the Germans in the Teutoburg Forest
6. What a great artist dies!
Emperor Nero. Abandoned by everyone, he ordered his servant to stab him and, dying, uttered these words
7. I want to be the kind of emperor I would wish for myself if I were a subject
Emperor Trajan. The Romans called him "the best emperor"
Task No. 86. Remember the ancient Roman legend to which the drawing of our time is dedicated
1. What are the babies' names? What fate awaits each of them?
Romulus and Remus. In the future, they decided to found a city in the place where they were suckled by a she-wolf, but they quarreled and Romulus killed his brother. Murder will not prevent him from founding a city and calling it by his own name.
2. Suggest why the predator did not kill the babies, but warms them with its warmth. You will give the correct answer if you remember who their father was.
Their father was Mars and the children were under his protection (note - Such cases occur in nature, even a dog feeds kittens)
Task No. 87. Remember the ancient Roman legend to which the drawing of our time is dedicated
1. In the silence of the night, warriors climb the fortress wall. Who are they? Why do they expect success? What prevented them from capturing the fortress? What hill was she on?
In 390 BC. Rome was besieged by the Gauls. At night they decided to climb the walls, because the Romans, exhausted by the siege, were sleeping and could not notice the danger. But the geese living at the Temple of Juno began to cackle and awaken the defenders of the fortress located on Capitol Hill, after which the assault was repulsed
2. Suggest why the defenders of the fortress, starving during a long siege, did not dare to eat geese
Geese lived at the temple of the goddess Juno and were revered as sacred animals
3. What popular expression has entered our speech? In what ways does it not correspond to historical truth? You will give the correct answer if you remember what successes the enemies achieved before the siege of the fortress
"Geese saved Rome." But this was of little help to the Romans, since, exhausted by the siege, they were forced to surrender and pay a huge ransom so that the Gauls would leave the sacked and burned Rome.
Task No. 88. Guess what (or who) we are talking about and answer the questions
1. According to legend, the Greeks besieged a rich and well-fortified city in Asia for ten years. Approximately what year did this siege begin? How did it end? What two names did the city besieged by the Greeks have?
Around 1200 BC The siege of Troy began and lasted about 10 years. The second name of Troy is Ilion (hence the Iliad).
2. The famous competitions of the strongest athletes were held in Hellas once every four years. When did the first competition take place? Where exactly were they held? What were they called?
In 776 BC. The first competitions took place in Olympia - the Olympic Games
3. According to ancient Roman legend, twin brothers, sons of the god of war, quarreled among themselves. Remember why. On which bank of the Tiber did the quarrel take place? What did it lead to? What year, according to legend, was this?
In 753 BC. Romulus and Remus decided to found a city, but a dispute arose on which hill to build it on. As a result, Romulus killed his brother. Rome was founded on the Palatine Hill on the left bank of the Tiber
4. Name the famous demos leader in Athens. Fifteen times he was elected to the main position in the Athenian state. What was the name of this position? In what year was he first elected to it?
Pericles In 443 BC. he was first chosen for the position of first strategist
5. This tribune of the people was not indifferent to the suffering of poor citizens who had nothing but air and light. In what year did he speak out in their defense? How did you want to help them? What was the tribune's name?
Tiberius Gracchus in 133 BC came up with a proposal for a Land Law that would limit the size of large land holdings and provide for the free distribution of surplus land to poor citizens
6. He approached the border river and with the words “the die is cast!” crossed it. Who are we talking about? What year was this? What is the name of the river? What did this lead to in the history of Rome?
Gaius Julius Caesar. In 49 BC. his legions crossed the Rubicon and marched on Rome. This led to the fall of the republic, the concentration of power in one hand and the emergence of preconditions for the creation of imperial power in Rome
7. His name is known in the most remote corners of the globe. About two thousand years ago, together with his disciples, He walked through cities and villages, healed the sick, and called on them to do good and be merciful. Do you remember his words: “And in everything that you want people to do to you, do so to them.” What's his name? In what country did He live? What kind of death did you accept?
Jesus Christ, who lived in Judea. He was nailed to the cross
8. Everyone in the Roman Empire was shocked by what happened. “My voice stopped,” wrote one of his contemporaries, “when I heard that the city to which the whole earth had been subjugated had been conquered!” What is it about? In what year did this terrible event take place? On what conditions did they agree to leave the banks of the Tiber?
We are talking about the capture of Rome in 410 by the Goths led by Alaric
In 1303, Pope Boniface VIII established the second university after the theological school in Rome. At the beginning of the 14th century, both educational institutions were united under one roof of the new Sapienza University (Italian: sapienza - wisdom). At the same time, the Chapel of St. Eustace was erected for the needs of the new university. In 1642, this chapel became the basis for the construction of the Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza. The construction was led by the famous architect Francesco Borromini. Built into the existing architectural complex of the university, the church was completely completed by 1660. At Borromini's suggestion, she was named after Saint Ivo of Brittany, patron of the Jesuit Order and patron of lawyers.
The unusual hexagonal shape of the church resembles a honeycomb. This shape testifies to the symbol of the Barberini family - the bee (the personification of divine wisdom). As is known, a representative of this family was Pope Urban VIII. The facade of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, which is one with the arcade of the university courtyard, is also decorated with bee bas-reliefs. Also on the façade of the church are the coat of arms of all the pontiffs under whom it was built. This is the dragon of Gregory XIII from the Boncompagni family, and the lion mask of Sixtus V from the Peretti family, the eagle and dragon of the Borghese family, whose representative was Paul V, as well as six mountain peaks with the star of Alexander VII from the Chigi family. The architectural lantern above the dome of the church is topped with a crown representing the papal tiara. The basis of the lantern is a drum, which is surrounded by six groups of paired columns topped with a curved cornice. Above it rises an upward spiral, on which the papal tiara is placed.
When designing the interior of the church, Borromini moved away from the central plan standard for the architecture of his time. The brilliant master of the Italian Baroque used a different axisymmetric scheme here, superimposing two regular triangles on top of each other. As a result, the structure's plan resembles a Star of David with rounded corners. The interior decoration is decorated in light colors, white and gold, and the under-dome space is designed in the form of a trifolium, in which the Star of David is also inscribed.
Six vault windows located in niches around the perimeter provide bright daylight to the church. The altar space is decorated with the image of Saint Ivo while accepting a petition from a group of commoners. Defending the rights of the poor and disadvantaged citizens of Rome, Ivo began to be called “the lawyer of the poor” during his lifetime. The famous painter Pietro da Cartona completed the altar painting commissioned by Pope Alexander VII, but due to his death he did not have time to complete the work. The image of Saint Ivo was completed by the artist Giovanni Ventura.
Currently, the Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza is not titular and mainly attracts attention as a historical architectural monument, a unique work of art by the great Borromini. The former university architectural complex today belongs to the State Archives.
- group tour (up to 10 people) for a first acquaintance with the city and main attractions - 3 hours, 31 euros
- immerse yourself in the history of Ancient Rome and visit the main monuments of antiquity: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill - 3 hours, 38 euros
- history of Roman cuisine, oysters, truffle, pate and cheese during an excursion for real gourmets - 5 hours, 45 euros
