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16 Must-Visit Churches in Rome

best churches of rome

The best churches in Rome to visit

Do you know how many churches there are in Rome ? Over 900. So shortlisting only 16 to visit is certainly a hard task. Undoubtedly, the Italian capital is the most interesting place on Earth when it comes to visiting basilicas, cathedral and churches. It doesn’t even matter whether you’re religious or not, visiting these churches in Rome along with their architectural magnificence and artistic masterpieces is must. Our task hasn’t been easy, but now it’s up to you to become familiar with the characteristics of each of these churches and and visit the ones that interest you the most.

  • San Giovanni in Laterano
  • Santa Maria Maggiore
  • San Paolo fuori le Mura
  • St. Peter’s Basilica

Santa Sabina all’Aventino

Santa prassede, santo stefano rotondo al celio, santa maria in trastevere.

  • Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
  • Sant’Ignazio di Loyola

Santa Maria sopra Minerva

  • Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

Santa Maria del Popolo

Basilica di san clemente, sant’ivo alla sapienza, tips before visiting a church in rome , san giovanni in laterano (basilica of st. john lateran).

Piazza di St. Giovanni in Laterano, 4 (San Giovanni)

basilica-di-san-giovanni-in-laterano-roma

The massive white structure of this church is the first thing that’ll capture your attention. But as you get closer, you’ll notice the artistic details, from the spiral columns to the sculptures that adorn the basilica. But the most astonishing fact is that unlike many believe, the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is the official cathedral of Rome and the most important of the four major basilicas in Rome, not to mention the first basilica to be built by Constantine in the 4th century. The Basilica, or Cathedral of Rome, is the seat of the Pope as bishop of Rome and the oldest public church of the Italian capital. Step inside to immerse yourself in a world of art and fascination.  The interior with five aisles is the result of work done by Borromini for the Jubilee of 1650. The majestically enormous sculptures, stunning paintings, arches, jaw-dropping ceiling, frescoes, mosaics and of course the Holy Sacrament Altar, make San Giovanni in Laterano one of the must-visit churches in Rome.

Suggested Read: The Four Papal Basilicas In Rome

Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of St. Mary Major)

Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 42 (Esquilino)

must visit churches in rome

Santa Maria Maggiore is the largest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and one of the four patriarchal basilicas of Rome. Unlike many other churches, St. Mary Major is one of the only basilicas in Rome to have kept its early Christian structure, remaining a great example of an early Christian Basilica. One of the most interesting aspects of this church is its 75-meter tall Renaissance Romanesque style bell tower, which is the tallest in Rome. It was built by Gregory XI on his return to Rome from Avignon and houses five bells at the top. One of the bells is a call for all the faithful and rings every evening at 9pm. The basilica is also known for its stunning 5th century mosaics commissioned by Pope Sixtus III, found in the central nave and triumphal altar. But these are just some of the marvels to admire at Santa Maria Maggiore. The basilica is also the resting place of the famous artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini. You can find his tomb on the right side of the altar.

San Paolo fuori le Mura (St. Paul Outside the Walls)

Piazzale San Paolo, 1 (San Paolo)

Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura

San Paolo fuori le Mura is a memory of the 4th century. It is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and is the second largest after St. Peter’s Basilica. Visiting this basilica could turn out to be the highlight of your travel. The interior of the church makes you feel the soft marble and gold touch with your eyes. For a second or two, you lose the power of movement and you stand there still, in awe. Floor-to-ceiling columns, golden mosaics, portraits of every Pope since Peter , and an out-of-this-world ceiling with golden decorations make this basilica one of the most beautiful churches in Rome. Another upside of this basilica is that it’s not usually crowded due to its rather isolated location. If you enter the courtyard to visit the tomb of St. Paul, you find yourself in the middle of lofty palm trees surrounded by an amazing rectangular collection of columns. In the center, you see the statue of the apostle Paul (San Paolo). You simply cannot get enough of the peace created by the biblical figure resting on these grounds for centuries.

San Pietro (St. Peter’s Basilica)

Piazza San Pietro, Città del Vaticano (Vatican)

must visit churches in rome

Being the biggest church in the smallest country in the world, Saint Peter’s Basilica is the symbol of the Vatican and the most important church of Christianity . Do not mistakenly consider it as the first church in history because it is not! Before the construction of today’s St. Peter’s Basilica, the grounds were taken up by the first church in the world built under Constantine, who believed it was the resting place of Peter, the first-ever Pope who was crucified by Emperor Nero. San Pietro is one of the holiest Catholic shrines in the world and an admirable manifestation of Renaissance architecture. It carries the honor of having been majorly designed by Michelangelo , Bramante, Bernini and Carlo Maderno. Not to mention, it’s home to the striking statue of the Pietà by Michelangelo and to the wonderful Baldachin of Bernini . There are more than 100 tombs in the St. Peter’s Basilica, of which 91 belong to former popes, as well as 395 statues and a gorgeous dome that lies right above St. Peter’s tomb. The basilica is so huge that it can host 20,000 visitors at a time. If you like a great view, don’t forget to head to the cupola to get a fabulous panoramic view of the city. 

Piazza Pietro D’Illiria, 1 (Aventine)

santa-sabina-allaventino

Located on Aventine Hill , Santa Sabina all’Aventino is one of the oldest and most authentic churches in Rome , dating back to 425 AD. At a first glance, you easily notice that it is much simpler in design in comparison to other baroque basilicas in Rome–but it is definitely worth a visit. Since it’s located above Aventine Hill, it offers a flawless view of Rome from the terrace of a small park just nearby, Giardino degli Aranci . The basilica itself is a great example of the ancient architecture of the 5th century, though it has undergone restorations and renovations through time. The main wooden door is a wonderful piece of handicraft. Then, you are pleasingly amazed at the 24 columns on the two sides of the interior. The Pope celebrates the Holy Mass of Ash Wednesday here every year.

Via di Santa Prassede, 9/a (Esquilino)

santa prassede church in rome

This modest orange basilica that dates back to the 9th century is located in the cozy street of Santa Prassede , footsteps from Santa Maria Maggiore. Don’t get fooled by the exterior, the interior is glorious. Orange, red, and navy blue dominate the basilica, offering a lovely game of colors. The whole combination of granite columns, spectacular arches, remarkable Middle Age golden mosaics, Byzantine and Baroque decorations , and early Christian frescoes makes this basilica an attraction for art lovers. Above all its fascinations, the church is famous for its mosaics that are so shiny and bright the church is known as “the Garden of Paradise”. In this church you will also find the Column of Flagellation , which is said to be the column on which Jesus Christ was flogged in his final years. While the marble table used to be a bed for the penance of the saint. Lastly, the urn by the entrance has the remains of the bones of San Valentino, the protector of lovers.

Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 7 (Celio)

S. Stefano Rotondo - coelio rome

The most unique characteristic of this hidden church on Celio Hill is its circular plan . Its construction dates back to the 4 th century, at the time of Constantine. As the name suggests, this church was built in commemoration of Santo Stefano, the first Christian martyr. You can find 34 frescoes of other Christian martyrs around the interior of the church. So, be prepared for many ancient stories as the frescos have a lot to say. The arches and columns are both simple and fascinating at the same time.

Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere (Trastevere)

santa-maria-in-trastevere

If you’re strolling through the Trastevere neighbourhood , don’t miss out on the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere –one of the most beautiful and serene churches in Rome. Its initial construction dates back to 340 AD. Other decorations such as famous Byzantine mosaics were made later in the 11th century. The octagonal ceiling stuns you when you first look at it. It is full of gorgeous jewels and also Domenichino’s Assumption of the Virgin . The golden mosaic arch is a mesmerizing feature of the church.  The marvellous façade view of its exterior finds its way through perfection by the octagonal fountain in the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere. Find a seat and relax for a while as you enjoy the exterior view. Be careful about the “smart” locals who want to sell entrance tickets,  entrance is free.

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri (Basilica of St.Mary of the Angels)

Piazza della Repubblica

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Designed by Michelangelo  himself, the basilica was built into the ruins of the famous Diocletian Baths . Its name comes from a legend of Christian martyrs who died during its construction. In fact, you may even walk past the basilica without noticing as there is no true facade.  Gorgeous frescoes, which revolve around the religious history of Christianity, together with the artistic statues have made a great awe-inspiring interior. You can also trace the footsteps of Michelangelo here through the stunning bathtub. Tall marble columns and arches with detailed plasterwork and the dominant light pink color have given a delicate dignity to the church. You can also see the meridian solar line on the floor which is the creation of Bianchini, an 18th-century astronomer. Not only is the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels unique, it was also the official state church of the Kindgom of Italy, and even a burial site for state funerals. Though usually ignored by the tourists, Santa Maria degli Angeli is a must-see church in Rome.

Sant’Ignazio di Loyola (Church of St. Ignatius Loyola)

Via del Caravita, 8a (centro storico)

Church of Saint Ignatius in Campo Marzio Rome

Located a stone’s throw away from the Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, I would call Sant’Ignazio di Loyola a luxurious and glorious church. Both the travertine exterior and golden interior are soul touching. The ceiling is a mind-blowing showcase of extremely valuable and marvelous architecture and painting. You may see things in the ceilings that are not actually there and it is the genius of its creator that causes the optical illusions. The walls are home to admirable statues, which accompany the other outstanding elements. The wooden works, simple yet elegant church benches, and the fantastic altar with many paintings are other features.

Piazza della Minerva, 42 (centro storico)

Santa Maria sopra Minerva Church

Not far from the Pantheon , Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of the few Gothic churches in Rome, dating back to the 13th century. Golden Baroque style stucco details were added in the early 17th century, which were almost removed during the mid-19th century. Among the elements that leave you mesmerized are the three naves, the blue vault with gold stars, and the two big organs. Here you can see many exquisite works of art: the Carafa Chapel built and decorated by Filippino Lippi in honour to Saint Thomas Aquinas, the statue of Michelangelo of Christ the Redeemer , and below the main altar lie the relics of the famous  Saint Catherine of Siena , while the tombs of two Medici popes, Leo X and Clement VII, are in the apse. The dance of the navy blue, gold, and marble colors is quite pleasing to the eye. As the Pantheon draws all the attention to itself, Santa Maria sopra Minerva is usually quiet and peaceful. 

Santa Croce in Gerusalemme (Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem)

Piazza di S. Croce in Gerusalemme (San Giovanni)

Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is located in the Esquilino neighbourhood with a solemn white exterior. Santa Croce in Gerusalemme owes its existence to Pope Benedict XIV who ordered the two architects, Pietro Passalacqua and Domenico Gregorini, to build the church. For those who need absolute silence for peace of mind and contemplation, this is the best place. Christians can also find important relics such as the St. Thomas’s fingernails that once tortured Jesus, a piece of the wood of the cross , etc. The interior design is just as glorious as the façade. The columns at the two sides of the church, with two rows of benches and an altar with navy blue decorations, are perfectly matched. Like other churches, you can raise your head up and amaze at the designs and paintings of the ceiling. Furthermore, the majestic Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is not so far away. So, plan ahead to visit its beauties as well.

Pantheon (Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs)

Piazza della Rotonda (centro storico)

pantheon di roma

Did you know that the Pantheon dates back to 118 AD? Yes, before Christianity. But what is interesting about the Pantheon is not just the oculus , or hole, in its dome that generously leads the light inside. It is the first temple in the history where people used to worship and pray directly to the Roman Gods. It might come as a shock if I say that before the completion of Pantheon, people could not pray directly; they had to hand their presents to the priests working in the temples instead of the Gods. Those priests believed that temples were divine and sacred and not appropriate for normal people. Emperor Hadrian made a revolution to this belief and summoned Marco Agrippa, whose name is written above the Pantheon’s entrance, for the completion of the structure. The exact date of its initial construction is obscure. After the completion of the Pantheon and with the emergence of Christianity, churches were built using the idea of the direct presence of people like in Pantheon. The Pantheon itself was transformed into a church as well. The tomb of Raphael , along with other artists are inside Pantheon. Not to mention the Kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I are buried in Pantheon. 

Piazza del Popolo

cappella cerasi santa maria del popolo

Piazza del Popolo is one of the most famous squares in Rome. Santa Maria del Popolo is constructed in the northern part of the square in 1099. The basilica was built based on a superstition back in those days: it was widely believed that the ghost of Nero, the Roman Emperor, had haunted the area. The basilica was built to relieve the area from the ghost. Though a minor church, it contains works by several famous artists, such as Raphael , Gian Lorenzo Bernini , Caravaggio and Pinturicchio. Don’t miss the Cerasi Chapel which houses paintings by Caravaggio (the Conversion of Saint Paul and the Crucifixion of St. Peter) and by Annibale Carracci and the Chigi Chapel , built and decorated by Raphael .

Via Labicana, 95 (Colosseum)

San Clemente Church Rome

Another example of “do not get misled by the exterior”! The exterior seems to be like a typical building while it is not. The Basilica of San Clemente is a 3-floor structure . The floors are underground and they have low ceilings and narrow corridors, which is contrary to what you may expect from a Roman church. If you are claustrophobic, I do not recommend visiting this church. The more you climb down, the older things you will see. So, the ground floor is more modern (in which you can find a breathtaking byzantine mosaic ) in comparison to the last floor. In fact, you climb down through history. Be sure to visit the two lower levels; on the first you will find the  fourth century Basilica , which was undiscovered until the late 18th century, after it had been covered with gravel around 1,100 after Christ. Then go down to the bottom level with its remains of an  ancient roman house in brick from the first century after Christ and which was transformed into a Mithraeum between the second and third centuries. The admission to the excavations costs €10.

Corso del Rinascimento, 40 (Navona)

Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza by Borromini

Built somewhere between Piazza Navona and Pantheon, Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza is closed to the public and is open only on limited hours and days. So, do check the availability before you go. This remarkable baroque gem is an exquisite design of Borromini , rival of Bernini, in which he used his geometric genius. It is the seat of La Sapienza, one of the oldest universities in the world. The featuring element of the exterior is definitely the lantern, which has a special architecture that makes you feel unable to stop looking at. As you stand in the courtyard, it seems to you that the walls are fluid and moving. I hope that you are lucky enough to visit this masterpiece.

Remember that you are visiting a place of worship and that you should wear appropriate clothing. Both men and women must always wear something that covers their shoulders and knees. Another tip is to check the opening hours of the churches.

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Autumn all along

The Church of the Gesù in Rome, Italy is the mother church of the Jesuits.  The facade was the first baroque facade which introduced the style into architecture.  The church had its groundbreaking, completion, and consecration in an impressive 16 year period from 1568-1584.  The church architecture of the church is a model of Jesuit churches throughout the world.  The adjacent palazzo is now a place for Jesuit scholars to study to prepare for ordination. | via Autumn All Along

5 beautiful churches in Rome, Italy to see for free

When we went to Europe, we didn’t have a very planned itinerary.  We thought if we liked somewhere, we would stay longer.  If we didn’t like somewhere, we would go home sooner.  We researched a little bit, but we mostly planned the vacation as we went (this was very different from our trip to Ireland that was very planned!).  It made our trip to Europe pretty exciting and it was the perfect way to finish up grad school.

Out of our experiences in Europe, our experiences in Italy was so full of beautiful art.  We found that walking into free churches was the easiest way to see so much and learn.  Here are some tips + churches we saw for free below.

5 tips we learned traveling in Rome

  • Rome is so packed during tourist season that it is absolutely worth it to buy passes to skip lines (we waited in line for hours at Vatican in 98 degree weather… never again!).
  • They charge a tourist tax in Rome, Italy in restaurants.  If you sit, they charge it.
  • Things are not always very organized.
  • Make sure your hotel has high quality internet service.  Every hotel we went to in Italy advertised internet, but it was so slow we could not research things on our trip.  Restaurants advertise free wifi as a selling point… so I think they’re aware.
  • Going into churches is free… and the easiest way to see SO MUCH art.

Our family LOVES free and we loved seeing the free churches in Rome, Italy.  The art in the churches in Rome, Italy was created by world renowned architects, sculptors, and painters.  I stood in absolute awe realizing that many of these artists were  teenagers .

RELATED // areas where we save money

The San Giovanni dei Fiorentini church in Rome, Italy

Address: Via Acciaioli, 2, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The San Giovanni dei Fiorentini church in Rome, Italy is the national church of Florence in Rome and is dedicated to John the Baptist.  While the groundbreaking was in 1523, the church wasn’t completed until 1734.  The architect was chosen through a competition, however, the church was designed by someone else.

The Basicilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, Italy

Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

The Basicilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs was built inside the ruined Roman baths that formerly occupied the plaza in Rome, Italy. The church was constructed in the 16th century. A main feature of the nasicilica is the meridian line within the church.  According to Wikipedia , this particular church was chosen for the meridian line because:

(1) Like other baths in Rome, the building was already naturally southerly oriented, so as to receive unobstructed exposure to the sun; (2) the height of the walls allowed for a long line to measure the sun’s progress through the year more precisely; (3) the ancient walls had long since stopped settling into the ground, ensuring that carefully calibrated observational instruments set in them would not move out of place; and (4) because it was set in the former baths of Diocletian, it would symbolically represent a victory of the Christian calendar over the earlier pagan calendar.

The meridian line was restored in 2002 and is operational now.

Church of the Gesù

Address: Via degli Astalli, 16, Roma RM, Italy

The Church of the Gesù in Rome, Italy is the mother church of the Jesuits.  The facade was the first baroque facade which introduced the style into architecture.  The church had its groundbreaking, completion, and consecration in an impressive 16 year period from 1568-1584.  The church architecture of the church is a model of Jesuit churches throughout the world.  The adjacent palazzo is now a place for Jesuit scholars to study to prepare for ordination.

Santa Maria in Aquiro

Address: Via della Guglia, 69B, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The Santa Maria in Aquiro is a church in Rome, Italy located on Piazza Capranica.  The church’s grounding was in the 8th century, but it wasn’t completed until the 16th century.  The most important work of art featured in the church is a painting of Madonna and Child with St. Stephen,  however, several renowned artists have art in the chapels which include the likes of Caravaggio.

For more history of the church, Wikipedia says : 

The church is ancient – it was restored by Pope Gregory III in the 8th century, and thus must have existed before then. One theory is that it was the  titulus Equitii , though San Martino ai Monti is a more likely candidate. It is also referred to as Santa Maria della Visitazione, notably by Pope Urban VI in 1389. The origins of the name are nebulous; most attribute it to a corruption of the term  a Cyro , perhaps referring in early days to a neighborhood resident. According to another theory  Acyro  refers to a corruption of the Latin word “circus”, a stadium for horse racing, which was located in the vicinity.  In 1540, Pope Paul III granted the church to the Confraternity of Orphans, and it was restored in 1588.

The Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola at Campus Martius

Address: Via del Caravita, 8a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola at Campus Martius in Rome, Italy is a baroque church that had its groundbreaking in 1626 and was completed in 1650.  You can read about the history here , as it is pretty complex and there were many different purposes for this building.

If you go to Rome, Italy, even if you are not the religious type, please go see the beautiful churches to see FREE art.  There were many times my breath was completely taken away at the details and intricacy of what I saw.  A few times, I admit to tearing up a little.

We would love go back someday and I’m positive we would see and learn something different every time.

24 free things to do in Rome

Duncan Garwood

Oct 18, 2023 • 9 min read

free churches to visit in rome

Save money in Rome with these free experiences © Westend61 / Getty Images

Rome  is a city where the doors of the art-laden churches are flung open to all, where ancient architectural wonders await around many corners, and it costs nothing to roam (pun intended) the historic streets, piazzas and parks. 

A surprising number of the famous sights in Italy 's magnificent capital city are completely free to visit, and we can show you how.

It's free to take in the art in Piazza Navona, Rome

1. Admire the riches of St Peter's Basilica

And to be reminded where the power lies today, the city’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica leaves all other churches in its shadow – and is completely free to enter.

There will probably be a line to enter Rome’s showstopping St Peter's Basilica , but after taking 126 years to build, maybe a little wait to see this opus isn’t so bad. St Peter’s Basilica is home to three of Italy’s most celebrated masterpieces: Michelangelo’s Pieta , his soaring dome and Bernini’s 29m-high (95ft) baldachin over the papal altar.

2. Watch the street artists on Piazza Navona

Come in the early morning before the crowds or after dark when the fountains, like Bernini’s iconic Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi , are illuminated to enjoy Piazza Navona  at its most alluring. Or better yet, be there when it’s crowded to watch the street performers and tourists come and go and hang out until dusk.

Long a hub of local life in Rome, Piazza Navona hosted Rome’s main market for nearly 300 years. Now there is a Christmas market during the holiday season and plenty of activity year-round.

Planning tip: Need to quench your thirst? Fill your water bottle at the nasone (big nose) drinking fountain in the north of the piazza.

Crowds of people walking up and down the Spanish Steps in Rome, with a two-spired church at the top of the steps

3. Climb the Spanish Steps to the Convent of Trinità dei Monti

People are no longer allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps , but you can still climb them. At the very top of the city’s most famous staircase perches Chiesa della Trinità dei Monti . Duck inside and take in spectacular works of art, including frescoes, an astrolabe and a duo of anamorphoses – wall paintings that appear to change entirely, depending on where you stand.

4. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain

The gorgeous, over-the-top, rococo Trevi Fountain depicts wild horses, mythical figures and cascading rock falls. It’s an unforgettable sight any time of day but particularly spellbinding after dark when it’s all lit up. According to legend, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain will ensure your return to Rome, making it a tourist rite of passage.

Planning tip: On an average day, about €3000 is chucked over shoulders into the water – but with all that money comes crowds of people, so don't be surprised to be jostling for space. It might be slightly quieter if you visit late in the evening.

5. Soak up the artistic vibes of Via Margutta

Take a stroll down the charming, ivy draped and prettily cobbled  Via Margutta . Picasso worked at gallery No 54, and the Italian Futurists had their first meeting here in 1917. Frederico Fellini even lived here for a while. It was also where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck rendezvoused in the silver-screen classic Roman Holiday (1953). It's truly picture-perfect.

Two people in a row boat with a temple-like building in the center of the lake

6. Wander the paths of Villa Borghese

Locals, lovers, tourists, joggers – no one can resist the lure of Rome's most famous park . Villa Borghese  is an oasis of shaded walkways, verdant corners and excellent museums to be explored. The lovingly landscaped Giardino del Lago features a copy of a Roman temple on the lake’s artificial islet.

Planning tip: For panoramic views of St Peter's, walk up Pincio Hill and head for the terrace.

7. Pay tribute in the Jewish Ghetto

The atmospheric Jewish Ghetto is studded with artisans' studios, kosher bakeries and popular trattorias. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this is one of the oldest Jewish quarters in Europe. While some Jewish people came as business envoys, most came as enslaved people. 

As you stroll around, look for a series of brass cobblestones. These are memorial plaques commemorating the city’s Holocaust victims: each one names a person and gives the date and destination of their deportation and death. They are placed outside the victims’ homes.

8. Tip generously on a "free" walking tour

New Rome Free Tour runs daily themed walking tours of the historic center. The guides will lead you through the tightly packed tangle of cobbled alleyways, Renaissance palaces, ancient ruins and baroque piazzas, all the while narrating the deep and storied history of Rome. It's a theatrical experience.

Planning tip:  Book your place in advance, and remember that while there's no charge for the tour, tips are expected at the end.

A solo figure walks down a tree-lined pathway on the Via Appia Antica, Rome

9. Explore the Via Appia Antica

Antiquity's most famous road, Via Appia Antica , has been an exclusive Rome address since 312 BCE. The most pleasant way to explore is on foot , making it perfect for a free experience. It's a beautiful cobbled thoroughfare flanked by grassy fields, Roman structures and towering pine trees. It was here that Spartacus and 6000 of his enslaved rebels were crucified, and it was here that early Christians buried their dead.

Planning tip:  For more information and a map of the area, stop by the Service Center Appia Antica  at the northern end of the road.

10. Find peace in Cimitero Acattolico 

A verdant oasis of peace, Rome’s "non-Catholic" cemetery is imbued with a kind of Grand Tour romance. Up to 4000 people are buried here, including poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. 

As you wander among the gravestones, look for the Angelo del Dolore (Angel of Grief), a much replicated 1894 sculpture that US artist William Wetmore Story created for his wife’s grave.

11. Visit Bernini's masterpiece at Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

The roadside Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria is the unlikely location of one of Italian baroque's great masterpieces: Bernini's Ecstasy of St Teresa . It's in the fourth chapel on the north side.

Planning tip:  This stunning major artwork is best viewed in the afternoon, when it's bathed in soft natural light filtering through a concealed window.

People browse market stalls that fill a square in a city

12. Browse the market at Campo de' Fiori

Colorful and always busy, Campo de' Fiori is a major focus of Roman life: by day, it hosts one of the city's best-known markets, and by night its bars and restaurants do a brisk trade. The piazza's poetic name (Field of Flowers) refers to the open meadow that stood here before the square was laid out in the mid-15th century.

13. Marvel at Renaissance architecture at Tempietto del Bramante

Bramante's tempietto (little temple) is considered the first great building of the High Renaissance. It is a perfect little surprise squeezed into the courtyard of the Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio, on the spot where St Peter is said to have been crucified. Its classically inspired design and ideal proportions epitomize the Renaissance zeitgeist.

Planning tip:  It's quite a climb up to the church, but it makes an ideal stop on a walking tour of Gianicolo . The tempietto is reached through the Spanish Royal Academy entrance to the north of the church. If you can get access to the academy’s upper level, there are magnificent views of Rome.

14. Find the hidden square through Arco degli Acetari

For one of Rome’s most picturesque scenes, head to this dark archway just off Campo de’ Fiori. The arch itself isn’t especially memorable, but go through it, and you’ll emerge onto a tiny medieval square enclosed by rust-orange houses and cascading plants. Cats and bicycles litter the cobbles while washing hangs off pretty flower-lined balconies overhead.

An empty square lined with classical buildings at dusk

15. Head up to hilltop Piazza del Campidoglio

This hilltop piazza , designed by Michelangelo in 1538, is one of Rome's most beautiful squares.

Planning tip:  There are several approaches to Piazza del Campidoglio, but the most dramatic is the graceful Cordonata staircase, which leads up from Piazza d'Aracoeli.

16. Learn about legends in Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli

This 5th-century church was built to house the shackles of St Peter, which are displayed under the altar. But the real star of the show at  Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli is Michelangelo's muscular Moses , which has its own interesting legend involving a mistranslation and a purposeful "‘mistake."

Planning tip:  The church is accessed via a steep flight of steps leading up from Via Cavour and passing under a low arch. 

17. Peer into Villa del Priorato di Malta

You probably can’t go inside the Villa del Priorato di Malta , but head over to the Sovereign Order of Malta anyway and peek through the keyhole. You'll see one of Rome’s most celebrated views: St Peter's dome, perfectly framed at the end of a hedge-lined avenue.

18. Partake in the passeggiata

The passeggiata (traditional evening stroll) is a quintessential Roman experience. It's particularly colorful on the weekends, when families, friends and lovers take to the streets to strut up and down, slurp on gelato and window-shop.

Planning tip:  To join in, head to Via del Corso around 6pm. Alternatively, watch the theatrics on Piazza di Spagna .

19. Marvel at religious artworks in Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi is home to three of Caravaggio’s earliest religious works, collectively known as the St Matthew Cycle. Embodying down-to-earth realism, they feature the stunning  chiaroscuro –  the bold contrast of light and dark – that the painter is known for. 

Planning tip:  Before you leave the church, take a moment to enjoy Domenichino’s faded 17th-century frescoes of St Cecilia in the second chapel on the right.

20. See atmospheric architecture in Quartiere Coppedè

One of Rome’s most extraordinary neighborhoods , Quartiere Coppedè  was conceived and built by the little-known Florentine architect Gino Coppedè between 1913 and 1926. It's a fairy-tale series of palazzos with Tuscan turrets, Liberty sculptures, Moorish arches, Gothic gargoyles, frescoed facades and palm-fringed gardens, centering around the magnificent Piazza Mincio.

21. Visit the landmark Trajan's Column 

The ancient landmark of Trajan's Column towers over the Imperial Forums . If you can make them out, the reliefs depict Trajan's military campaigns.

22. Attend the Pope's weekly address

The Pope holds a weekly audience in the Vatican on Wednesdays when he's in Rome.

Planning tip:  Tickets are free but you need to request them and collect them in advance.

23. Some of Rome's best attractions are free at specific times

Time your visit just right, and you could be taking in some of Rome's very best paid-for sites for absolutely nothing at all. On the first Sunday of the month, the  Colosseum , Palatino  and Roman Forum  are free to visit. The  Vatican Museums  can be visited for free on the last Sunday of the month.

24. Rome's May Day Concert is a free event

The May Day Concert on May 1 is a huge (and free) celebration in the city.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated October 2023

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The 7 Essential Churches in Rome to Visit

By Noah Charney

Image may contain Building Architecture Church Altar and Apse

St. Peter’s Basilica

The world’s largest—and most visited—church is the seat of the papacy, in Vatican City , that ecclesiastical “island” in the middle of Rome. Queue up in the key-shaped courtyard, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Try to find the colored pavestones, one on either side of the fountain, where you can stand and look at the many curved rows of columns. Standing on this precise spot creates an optical illusion; the rows of columns perfectly line up, so there appears only to be one. Inside St. Peter’s, the scale and soaring height is meant to humble all its visitors (note that the letters written inside the dome are each 2 meters—6.6 feet—tall). What you see today is largely the work of Bernini, but he merely completed a building centuries in the making, with Michelangelo responsible for the cupola, and Raphael and Bramante assisting with the architecture. If you can press your way through the throngs of tourists, take a look at Michelangelo’s Pieta , completed when he was only 24, the work that made him famous. But no one believed it was his, so he carved “Michaela[n]gelus Bonarotus Florentin[us] Facieba[t]” (“Michelangelo Buonarroti of Florence Made It”) onto the sash across Mary’s chest. If you're not convinced that this is the world's largest church, lines on the floor mark where all the other major churches would fit inside St. Peter’s.

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Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls

The founders of Christianity were Saints Peter and Paul. Peter, not a Roman citizen, was executed for his faith by being crucified upside-down (at his request, as he felt unworthy of being executed in the same way as Jesus). Roman citizens were legally protected against the more unpleasant execution methods, and so Saint Paul was beheaded at the site of this church, originally founded by Emperor Constantine, when he made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. The name “Outside the Walls” refers to the Aurelian walls of the city (finished in 275), which successfully repelled many invaders, including the Saracens who, after conquering Sicily in 827, attacked Rome in 846. Unfortunately, as the name implies, the original church built here was outside the walls, and was leveled. The rebuilt church is studded with glorious 13th-century mosaics that glimmer in the light, making a stroll through it feel like walking inside a giant gilded and bejeweled reliquary.

Image may contain Building Architecture Church Altar and Apse

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Perhaps the most impressive church in Rome, aside from St. Peter’s, is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, which is the cathedral of the city of Rome. (Recall that Saint Peter’s is, technically, in its own jurisdiction, Vatican City, much as Washington, as capital of the U.S., is in the District of Columbia.) Its magnificent interior includes six papal tombs and colossal statues of the 12 apostles, each holding their hagiographic icon, the object associated with their martyrdom. Sculpted in the first decade of the 18th century, each apostle statue was paid for by a different prince (the pope paid for St. Peter's), and a who’s-who of top sculptors of the era were commissioned to make various statues, in a sort of open competition—see which you like best (my favorite is Giuseppe Mazzuoli’s St. Philip, shown treading on a dragon).

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Basilica of St. Mary Major

Near the Termini train station in an under-touristed part of town, this basilica houses a miracle-working image of the Virgin Mary as protectress of the Roman people, called Salus Populi Romani. Many churches in Rome contain an icon, often the oldest artwork on display, which was thought to heal those who prayed before it. This one was actually crowned by Pope Gregory XVI in 1838, an honor given to select miraculous images, usually of the Virgin Mary, effectively canonizing them and legally granting the image the right to wear a crown, as if they were secular royalty. The Holy Crib, in which the baby Jesus is said to have lain, is found here in a lavish gold reliquary, and the church boasts its own Sistine Chapel, not to be confused with the one Michelangelo painted across town—“Sistine Chapel” simply refers to the fact that a pope called Sixtus established it.

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Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside-the-Walls

St. Lawrence had one of history’s great last words. Said to have been roasted alive on a grill in 258—as punishment for his Christian beliefs—he allegedly taunted his torturers by saying, “Turn me over, I’m done on this side.” The St. Lawrence Grill would make a great name for a diner , though I think only fellow art historians would find it funny. Lawrence’s execution took place where this church now stands, formerly the site of a small oratory built by Constantine I, the emperor who converted to Christianity (the religion of his mother, Saint Helen) in 312. The parallels between Christianity and the Roman polytheistic state religion is manifest inside the portico, in the form of a pair of ancient sarcophagi. One of the two is Christian, its original polytheistic Roman relief sculptures altered in the seventh century to turn cupid picking grapes (a reference to Bacchus, god of wine, and orgies) into cherubs, gently Christianizing sculptures. This is, in miniature, what the nascent religion of Christianity did, choosing imagery that was already familiar to polytheistic Romans (early images of Christ recall images of Apollo) and even opting for the same holidays.

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Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem

This basilica was built in 325 as a giant house of relics brought to Rome by St. Helena, the mother of Constantine and a lifelong Christian. The floor of the basilica was originally covered in soil from Jerusalem. The relic chapel is the star attraction, renovated in 1930, where you can see artifacts purported to be the originals from Christ’s Passion, including part of one of the Holy Nails, three fragments of the True Cross (a single larger piece was moved to St. Peter’s in 1629), two thorns from the Crown of Thorns, and part of the Elogium, the panel hung on the cross that read, in Hebrew, Greek and Latin, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” This latter relic is largely considered to be a medieval forgery, like the Shroud of Turin. There was a lively trade in fake relics throughout the Middle Ages, especially after soldiers returned from the Crusades. There are so many relics, multiples of bones of various saints, or villages’ worth of pieces of wood “from the True Cross” that they can't possibly all be real. It remains at the discretion of the faithful, to determine whether or not to believe.

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St. Sebastian Outside-the-Walls

In 2000, Pope John Paul II swapped out this farther-flung church and replaced it, as the seventh in the pilgrimage route, with the sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love. But in keeping with tradition, the route that millions of pilgrims, over hundreds of years, have taken, let’s stick with St. Philip Neri’s choice. This fourth-century church was built above the ancient catacombs where St. Sebastian was buried. Sebastian was executed for his Christian faith, first used as target practice by Roman archers, but having miraculously survived, he was later clubbed to death, and his remains laid in a warren of underground tunnels that would make Indiana Jones proud, and which can be visited today. Saints Peter and Paul were originally interred in these catacombs, but their remains, along with Sebastian’s, were moved to St. Peter’s Basilica. This proved shrewd, because the Saracen attack on Rome in 846 resulted in the destruction of the church originally built here (since it, like the church of St. Paul, was also “Outside-the-Walls”). The church you can visit today was established in the 13th century but, as with many of Rome’s churches, what you see is largely Baroque (16th century) renovations after the devastating 1527 Sack of Rome at the hands of the renegade army of Emperor Charles V Habsburg.

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The adventurous feet

23 Most Famous Churches in Rome (+ A Free Map to Find Them)

Are you looking for the most famous churches in Rome ? Then this article will give you a list of 23 of the must-visit Rome churches and basilicas!

For centuries, pilgrims have traveled to Rome to visit the churches and cathedrals in a display of religious devotion.

Nowadays, however, tourists have joined the pilgrims, some Christians, others not, but all wanting to see the beautiful architecture and artwork of the churches.

St. Peter’s Square is one of the best Rome attractions.

But with over 900 churches and cathedrals in Rome, there is no way you will have time to see them all in one visit.

So what are the most famous churches in Rome that are worth visiting? To help you, I’ve put together this list of 23 Rome churches that cover a wide variety of styles from early Christianity, Medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance, to Baroque. In a few instances, you might even see a variety of styles in one church.

Before You Go, Here’s How To Plan Your Visit To Rome Quickly

Rome is a popular city which means that good hotels and tours book out fast, so before you go, make sure that you make your reservations in time to avoid disappointments! Below are my expert recommendations! ⏩ WHERE TO STAY IN ROME Best Colosseum view: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi (8.8/10) Luxury stay: H10 Palazzo Galla (9.2) Mid-range stay: Barberini Dream (9.5/10) Budget stay: Like Family House (9.4) Apartment rental/Airbnb: Apartment Julia Guesthouse (8.4) ⏩ GUIDES TOURS AND TICKETS YOU SHOULD BOOK IN ADVANCE Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill (4.6/5). This is the exact tour I took, and I couldn’t have been happier. We had a knowledgeable and fun tour guide. Skip-the-line ticket to the Sistine Chapel And The Vatican Museums with an audio guide (4.5/5). This ticket saved me a whopping 3 hours. You’ll pass in a dedicated Getyourguide line with it. It’s a true skip-the-line ticket. Borghese Gallery guided tour (4.7/5). This is my favorite museum in Rome, and this tour made me fall in love with it even more. Street food walking tour of Rome (4.8/5). If you want to taste Rome’s delicacies while exploring its popular neighborhood of Trastevere, then this is the food tour I recommend!

Famous Churches in Rome

Read on to learn about some of the best churches in Rome that I believe you’ll appreciate. I’ve also included a free map at the bottom of the page to make sure you locate them easily.

1. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Inside St Peter's basilica-Vatican

One of the best places to visit in Rome is no doubt St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-see on your visit to Rome. Located in the Vatican City, it is not only the most famous church in Italy but also in the world.

If you only have time to visit one or two churches in Rome, St. Peter’s Basilica should come first because it’s incredibly spectacular. 

Besides being famous, it is also the largest church in the world by interior measure, covering an area of 15,160 meters square (163,200 sq ft), so it is not surprising that it took 120 years to build.

Built in a Renaissance style, this basilica has stunning pieces of work by famous Italian artists such as Bernini and Michelangelo.

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the famous churches in Rome.

One of the highlights of this church is the bronze statue of St. Peter . Pilgrims journey for thousands of miles to honor his memory and to kiss the statue’s feet.

Other must-see artworks include the Pieta by Michelangelo, a sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding the crucified Jesus Christ, the Chair / Throne of St. Peter , the high altar  by Bernini, the Monument to Pope Alexander VII , and many others.

The church also has a magnificent dome designed by Michelangelo that rises 136 meters (446 feet) high! It is beautifully decorated with mosaics of 96 figures, including Christ, the 12 apostles, and the first 16 canonized popes.

You can climb the dome for spectacular views of Rome in all its glory, but most strikingly St. Peter’s Square.

View os St. Peter's Square from the Basilica's dome.

The best thing is that it’s free to visit St. Peter’s Basilica unless you want to climb the dome — then you’ll need to pay a small fee or opt for this guided tour of the church and the dome to fully learn about it.

St. Peter’s Basilica Opening Hours: The church is open daily from 7.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. (April – September) and from 7.30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (October – March).

✅   Click here to book your St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour plus dome access !

2. The Sistine Chapel

Frescoes in Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is also in Vatican City, so if you are going to St. Peter’s Basilica, take some time to visit the Chapel as well.

However, since it is part of the Vatican Museums, you can only visit it if you purchase this combined ticket .

This can be costly and time-constraining if you just want to see the Chapel but on the other hand, it is worth seeing at least a few pieces in one of the 54 museums.

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous churches in Rome and is best known for its beautiful ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

The Sistine Chapel is one of the best churches in Rome.

The ceiling shows a number of scenes from the Old Testament but one that stands out is The Creation of Man in the center depicting God breathing life into Adam.

It took Michelangelo 4 years to paint but it isn’t his only masterpiece. You will also be able to see his stunning frescoes of The Last Judgment .

Due to its popularity, I highly recommend booking this skip-the-line ticket , otherwise, you might end up wasting up to 4 hours in a queue.

If you buy that ticket, you’ll pass through a dedicated line! I bought it and didn’t spend even 5 minutes in the line.

Alternatively, you can book this highly-rated guided tour of the Sistine Chapel plus the Vatican museums !

Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums Opening Hours: 8.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. (Monday – Saturday). From May until October, it is open on Fridays until 10.30 p.m. and Saturdays until 8.00 p.m. This is perfect if you’re looking for things to do at night in Rome on a Friday.

✅ Click here to book your skip-the-line ticket to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums .

3. Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Chiesa Di Sant ‘Ignazio Di Loyola)

The Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola is one of the famous churches in Rome.

Chiesa di Sant ‘Ignazio di Loyola is one of the Jesuit churches in Rome. It is the largest Jesuit church in the city and is dedicated to the founder of the Society of Jesus, St. Ignatius of Loyola, who was a prominent Spanish priest.

As with most Baroque churches, Chiesa di Sant ‘Ignazio di Loyola is stunning. It has a facade decorated with statues and columns, but it’s the jaw-dropping interior embellished with marble, stucco, and beautiful frescoes that will mesmerize you — at least I was when I visited! Needless to say, this is one of my top 3 favorite churches in Rome!

The most impressive of all is the fresco of The Triumph of St. Ignatius by Andrea Pozzo that runs across the nave! It’s a true masterpiece. It looks as if some of the figures are flying, and St. Ignatius is moving towards heaven. 

Visiting Saint Ignatius of Loyola is one of the best stuff to do in Rome.

Can’t see the figures up close? There is a large mirror below it that makes everything much clearer and beautiful. Just be ready to queue for it as it has become social media- famous with many people wanting to capture its beauty!

Part of the ceiling is also painted in such a way that it looks like a dome, yet it is flat.

If I didn’t say it already, after St.Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, this is my favorite church in Rome! It’s that beautiful!

Chiesa di Sant ‘Ignazio di Loyola Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Monday – Thursday). 9.00 a.m. – 11.30 p.m. (Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays)

4. Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere (Our Lady in Trastevere)

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the famous Rome churches.

It is believed that Santa Maria in Trastevere was the first place that Christian services were held publically.

Before that, they had to be held privately otherwise the Christians could be exiled, tortured, or even executed.

It is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome and merges early Christian elements with Medieval and Baroque styles.

It was originally built between 221 and 340, renovated in the 12th century, and redecorated in the 17th century.

The mosaics inside the church date to the late 13th century and were created by Petro Cavallini. They depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary after whom the church was named.

The floor is inlaid with marble and the wooden ceiling is gilded with gold. All in all, this church is a perfect work of art and is well worth your time.

If you can, visit the church after dark as the facade is illuminated, and the mosaics glitter in the lights.

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere Opening Hours: 7.30 a.m. – 8.30 p.m. (Monday – Thursday and Saturday – Sunday). 8.00 a.m. – 8.30 p.m. (Friday)

5. The Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the best Rome tourist attractions.

The Pantheon was one of the first places I visited in Rome, and I was suitably impressed.

It is a remarkably well-preserved building considering that it was built in the 2nd century as a temple dedicated to Roman pagan gods. It became a Christian church in the 7th century and is still used for Roman Catholic services to this day.

From the outside, the Pantheon looks like a typical ancient Roman temple. It has a portico and three rows of columns, but it also has an enormous dome which is the largest unreinforced dome in the world.

On the inside, it has an oculus which lets in light and, you’ve guessed it, rain as well. However, the Romans built a drainage system that takes away the water so that the church doesn’t flood.

The walls inside the church have recesses that used to house ancient Roman statues but now contain chapels and tombs of prominent Italians such as the artist, Raphael, and members of the Italian royal family, including the first King of Unified Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II.

It used to be free to visit but that changed recently! I recommend booking this ticket online to avoid wasting time in long queues, especially if you are visiting in the height of summer. This ticket also comes with an audio guide to learn more about it.

However, if you want to get an even deeper understanding of its history, then you can opt for this Pantheon guided tour instead .

The Pantheon Opening Hours: Open – 9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. (daily)

✅ Click here to purchase your Pantheon entry ticket in advance to avoid the long lines .

6. Basilica of San Clemente (Basilica Di San Clemente Al Laterano)

Basilica di San Clement is one of the must see things in Rome.

Gryffindor , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Basilica di San Clemente allows you to explore different eras, making it one of the most unique Rome basilicas.

You will be able to see three churches in one and learn how Roman religion evolved.

The basilica that is used today was built in the 12th century but there is a 4th-century church below and underneath that, a 2nd-century temple that was dedicated to a pagan god.

The 12th-century basilica is at street level. It is elaborately decorated with marble inlays on the floor and mosaics of scenes from the Bible adorning the triumphal arch and the apse.

Underneath this basilica, you will find the 4th-century church which has magnificent frescoes of Pope Clemente after whom the church was named. 

The third level of the basilica contains a dark and damp 2nd-century temple, dedicated to Mithras, the god of light, justice, war, and kingship. 

Basilica di San Clemente Opening Hours: 10.00 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. (Monday – Saturday, November – May). 12.00 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. (Sunday, November – May). 9.00 a.m. – 12.30 a.m. (Monday – Saturday, June – October), 12.00 – 6.00 p.m. (Sunday, June – October).

7. Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo (Saint Mary of the People)

Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is one of the best churches in Rome.

Jakub Hałun , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

This church is in the Piazza del Popolo which translates to the square of the people, and is also one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome .

It was originally built to exorcize the ghost of Emperor Nero, a tyrant and sadist, who was reputedly buried here.

It was reconstructed in the 15th century and is one of Rome’s earliest and most extravagant Renaissance churches.

The exterior of the church could make you walk right past it as it doesn’t give out much, but the inside is quite beautiful.

It’s also one of the many churches in the city that is free to enter which is a bonus.

The ceiling is stunning as it is coffered and adorned with gold, and the apse has a beautiful mosaic of the Virgin Mary.

Make sure that you don’t miss the side chapels too! There are eight, four in each side aisle, but the two most outstanding are Cesari Chapel which contains two paintings by the famous Italian artist, Caravaggio, and Chigi Chapel , designed by Raphael.

Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo Opening Hours: 8.30 a.m. – 9,45 a.m., 10.30 a.m. – 12.15 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. (Monday – Saturday), 4.30 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. (Sunday).

8. Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli (St. Peter in Chains)

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli is one of the best churches of Rome.

Rabanus Flavus , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Not far from the Colosseum on top of the Oppian Hill is Basilica di San Pietro which was built in the 5th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Rome.

It was built to house the two chains that were used to bind St. Peter both in Jerusalem and Rome and, according to legend, when the 2 were brought close together, they fused. Today, they are kept underneath the altar in a reliquary.

Another highlight of the basilica is Pope Julius II’s tomb created by Michelangelo. It is adorned with sculptures of Moses, Rachel, Leah, and the two wives of Jacob.

They are spectacular, especially the statue of Moses , which is 2.5 meters (8 feet) high.

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli is one of the best churches of Rome.

They were supposed to be 40 sculptures but due to delays, changes in the project, and Michelangelo’s other work commitments, they were never made. Imagine what it would have been like if the project had been completed.

You should, however, note that although it’s called a tomb, Pope Julius II is not interred here but rather in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, so this is more of a monumental piece than an actual tomb.

The church itself is a bit humble compared to other famous churches in Rome, so most people visit only to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli Opening Hours: 8.00 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. – 7.00 p.m. Daily)

9. Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin

Piazza della Bocca della Verità is one of the famous Roman piazzas.

The Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin is one of the most famous churches in Rome.

Unfortunately, this is not because it is a beautiful Medieval church, but because of the Mouth of Truth (La Bocca della Verità) which is a large marble mask placed on the wall of the portico.

It is said that if you put your hand into the mouth, it will snap shut if you are a liar. It attracts lots of tourists so you will probably have to queue if you want to test your honesty. However, you could always go inside the basilica instead.

Mouth of Truth inside the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin

The interior of the basilica is stunning with a focus on marble decoration including on the floor, the pulpit, and the bishop’s throne, and there are even frescoes on the walls of the aisles.

Don’t miss going to the crypt which was built to store the relics from the catacombs by Pope Adrian.

The church also has a 7-story campanile (bell tower) which is the tallest in Rome and was built in a simple Romanesque design.

Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin Opening Hours: 9.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. (April – October daily), 9.30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (November – March daily)

10. Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

Basilica di Santa Cecilia is one of the famous churches in Rome.

Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music and musicians was a Roman virgin who was martyred in 300 A.D., and the Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere was built over her houses in the 5 th century to honor her memory. 

It is another church that looks dull from the outside but is stunning inside. It was renovated in both the 8 th and 18 th centuries and the walls are adorned with frescoes.

There is also a lifelike statue of Saint Cecilia by Stefano Maderno, showing her body as it was when it was exhumed in 1599, reputedly incorruptible, meaning that it hadn’t decayed.

There is also a Benedictine cloistered convent where you will find the spectacular Last Judgment fresco by Pietro Cavallini. You’ll have to pay a few euros to see it even though the church itself is free.

Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Opening Hours: 10.00 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. (Daily)

11. Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva

Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of the Roman churches.

Wknight94 talk , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

This church is a little unusual as it is one of the few churches in Rome with Gothic influences.

It was built in the latter part of the 13th century on top of the ruins of a temple dedicated to the pagan goddess, Isis, although it was confused to be Minerva at the time of its construction, hence the name.

Although the outside is Gothic, you will find artwork from the Renaissance and Baroque periods inside the church including a marble sculpture of Risen Christ (also known as Christ the Redeemer) by Michelangelo, stunning frescos in the Carafa Chapel  by Filippino Lippi.

The church is also an important pilgrimage site as it houses the tombs of many famous people, including Catherine of Siena , the patron saint of Italy, Pope Urban VII , Pope Paul IV , and many others.

Fra Angelico , a Dominican friar and painter of several masterpieces is also buried here!

Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva Opening Hours: 11.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. – 7.00 p.m. (Daily)

12. Basilica Papale di San Paolo fuori le Mura (Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls)

Basilica Papale di San Paolo fuori le Mura is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome.

Berthold Werner , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls was built outside the ancient Roman defensive Aurelian Walls (hence the name) at the burial place of St. Paul and houses the tomb of St. Paul the Apostle .

It was first built in the 4th century but was almost completely rebuilt in the 19th century. However, there are still some mosaics on the Holy Door that are from the original building. 

To get to the church, you’ll have to walk through a courtyard and when you reach the facade, you will be welcomed by a magnificent statue of St. Paul and a mosaic of the Apocalypse of St John .

Inside, the apse is particularly stunning and has a mosaic of Jesus Christ, St. Paul, St. Peter, St. Luke, and St. Andrew . It was created in the 5th century but has been significantly restored over the years.

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls Opening Hours: 7.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. (Daily)

13. Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli (The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Altar in Heaven)

Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli is one of the most beautiful Rome basilicas.

Next on our list of famous Rome churches is Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli ! It was originally built in the 6th century but has been restored since then.

If you believe in miracles, you should visit this basilica as it houses a wooden figure of Jesus Christ as a child known as Santo Bambino of Aracoeli which is believed to resurrect the dead.

It was carved in the 15th century but was stolen in the 1990s and has been replaced with a replica. Whether the replica is also miraculous is another question.

Like several Roman churches, it’s easy to miss this church since it’s located on the famous Capitoline Hill which has a lot to offer, and its exterior doesn’t give away much — but that would be a mistake.

Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli is one of the most beautiful Rome basilicas.

The marble steps leading up to the church are spectacular but they are steep and quite many (124 to be exact) so it can be a bit of a challenge to climb.

However, it is worth the effort as the inside of the church is stunning. It has a beautiful gold frescoed ceiling depicting scenes from the Battle of Lepanto during which a fleet from the Holy League defeated a fleet of ships from the Ottoman Empire, beautiful Cosmatesque floors, overhanging chandeliers, Roman columns which were made from other ruins, and various frescoes.

Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. – 6.30 p.m. (Daily)

14. Basilica Sant ’Andrea della Valle (Church of St. Andrew of the Valley)

Basilica Sant ’Andrea della Valle is one of the famous basilicas in Rome.

If you are familiar with Puccini’s opera, Tosca, you will know that the Basilica Sant ‘Andrea della Valle is the setting for the first act, making it one of the most famous Rome churches.

It was one of the first Baroque basilicas to be built in the city. The facade, designed by Carlo Moderno has a fascinating balustrade hosting statues of angels and saints.

The interior is particularly luxurious with marble and gold used throughout, and paintings covering some of the walls.

You will probably get a neckache looking up at the fresco adorning the dome ceiling known as the Glory of Paradise by Giovanni Lanfranco which shows saints and angels heading towards heaven.

Basilica Sant ’Andrea della Valle is one of the famous basilicas in Rome.

Besides, the cupola, the entire ceiling is stunningly beautiful with colorful frescoes which you can even have an up-close view of from the mirror placed right below them.

This church’s dome is also the second tallest in Rome, only beaten to the top spot by St. Peter’s Basilica.

Basilica Sant ’Andrea della Valle Opening Hours: 10.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Monday – Friday), 12.00 p.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Saturday), 8.30 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Sunday)

15. Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino (Basilica of Saint Sabina in Aventine)

Basilica di Santa Sabina all'Aventino is one of the best catholic churches in Rome.

Dnalor 01 , CC BY-SA 3.0 AT , via Wikimedia Commons

The Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino is one of the earliest Christian basilicas in Rome, so it’s not surprising that it has a colonnaded rectangular shape compared to other popular churches of Rome.

It was built in the 5th century, and above the entrance is one of the oldest mosaics in the city. The church is also famous for its carved cypress wooden entrance door that dates to 432 A.D.

It shows various scenes from the Bible but one standout is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ  and the two thieves which is believed to be the first known public display of the crucifixion.

Inside, the opulence of the marble used to decorate the church is impressive. Not only are the columns made from it, but the choir has marble screens too.

Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino Opening Hours: 12.00 p.m. – 7.00 p.m. (Sunday and Monday), 8.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. (Tuesday – Saturday)

16. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of Saint Mary Major)

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the famous churches in Rome.

The Papal Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore has the honor of being the only one of the Catholic churches in Rome to have held Mass every day since the 5th century.

Although built in the 5th century, it has had embellishments and additions since then such as the 14th-century bell tower and a gold-adorned ceiling from the 16th century. 

Situated on Esquiline Hill, it is one of the most beautiful basilicas in Rome. There are so many works of art both inside and out, that it seems like a museum.

There are stunning mosaics in the nave and the triumphal arch which depict scenes of the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus plus some from the Old Testament.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the famous churches in Rome.

Underneath the altar of the Sistine Chapel (yes, this church also has its own Sistine Chapel, not the one in the Vatican), there is a shrine with what are thought to be relics from Jesus’ crib in Bethlehem.

And if you step outside, you’ll find Bernini’s tomb!

If you visit Rome on August 5th, you may want to attend the Miracle of the Snow celebration at Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore which according to the legend is the day snow fell, clearly marking where the church honoring the Virgin Mary was to be built after having appeared in Pope Liberius’ dream directing him to construct a church in her honor.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore Opening Hours: 7.00 a.m. – 6.45 p.m. (Daily)

17. Sant Agnese in Agone

Sant ’Agnese in Agone is one of teh best Rome churches.

Saint Agnese was executed in the 4th century because she was a Christian. She was later martyred, and this church is dedicated to her memory.

It was built on top of the ancient stadium of Domitian, now Piazza Navona, in the exact place where she was killed.

The church is a perfect example of Baroque architecture with the interior decorated with life-size sculptures and beautiful frescoes.

There are several altars in the church, most dedicated to martyrs except for one which is assigned to the Holy Family.

The altar dedicated to Agnese shows her surrounded by flames and a reliquary displays her skull.

Sant Agnese in Agone Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Daily)

18. San Luigi dei Francesi (St. Louis of the French)

San Luigi dei Francesi is one of the best churches in Rome.

Calliopejen1 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

If you plan to visit the Pantheon, you should also stop at the nearby San Luigi dei Francesci .

This church has served the French community in Rome for over four centuries and is the seat of the Cardinal of Paris in Rome.

It is elaborately decorated and contains three of the world’s most famous paintings about the life of St. Matthew in Contarelli Chapel by Caravaggio, which are some of his earliest works.

They include; The Calling of St. Matthew (on the left wall), The Inspiration of Saint Matthew (above the altar), and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew (on the right wall).

The church is Baroque and houses many frescoes and statues. It also has ten chapels, one of which displays frescoes of St. Cecilia by Domenichino, and a choir that has a spectacular organ built by Joseph Merklin in the 1880s.

San Luigi dei Francesi Opening Hours: 9.30 a.m. – 12.45 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. – 6.30 p.m. (Daily)

19. Santa Croce in Gerusalemme (The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem)

Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is one of the famous Rome churches.

Livioandronico2013 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

This is one of the most interesting basilicas in Rome to visit as it displays a large collection of holy relics of the Passion of Christ from Jerusalem.

These were brought to Rome by St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, and are housed in a special chapel.

They include fragments of the stable where Christ was born, thorns from Christ’s crown of thorns, and fragments of the cross on which Christ was crucified.

The basilica was built in the 4th century but apart from the original granite columns, not much is left of the original church.

It was reconstructed in the 12th century to include a nave and two aisles, as well as a bell tower. The facade was reconstructed in the 18th century and the cathedral now has a Baroque appearance.

Santa Croce in Gerusalemme Opening Hours: 7.00 a.m. – 12.45 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. – 7.30 p.m. (Daily)

20. San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura (St. Lawrence Outside the Walls)

San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura is one of the best churches of Rome.

Livioandro nico2013 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Like the Basilica Papale di San Paolo fuori le Mura we looked at above, San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura was also built outside the ancient Roman defensive walls and is one of the seven pilgrimage Catholic churches in Rome.

It was founded by Constantine the Great and dedicated to the martyred Roman deacon, St. Lawrence.

The basilica was built on the site where he was executed in the 3rd century and still retains its original form despite being restored and parts of it rebuilt after the World War II bombing.

When it comes to the interior, the basilica is extravagantly decorated. There are multi-colored marble stones on the pulpits, the tabernacle, the bishop’s throne, the Easter candlestick, the tomb of Cardinal Fieschi, and the floor, while Byzantine mosaics from the 6th century adorn the Triumphal Arch.

San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura Opening Hours: 7.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 7.30 p.m. (Monday – Saturday), 7.45 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Sunday)

21. Chiesa del Gesù (Church of The Gesù)

Chiesa del Gesù is one of the Roman churches.

Alessio Damato , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Chiesa del Gesù is famous, partly because it was the first completely Baroque church built in Rome, and secondly, because it is the head church of the Jesuits (also known as the Society of Jesus) and also their first church in Rome.

It was built between 1568 and 1584 but was only elaborately decorated during the following century.

Inside the church, instead of aisles that are common with other famous churches in Rome, there are small chapels, one of which houses the tomb of the church’s founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola.

The ceiling is painted with a magnificent fresco called The Triumph of the Name of Jesus  by Giovanni Battista Gaulli and there is a cupola with even more beautiful frescoes.

Chiesa del Gesù Opening Hours: 7.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 7.30 p.m. (Monday – Saturday), 7.45 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Sunday)

22. Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran)

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is where to go in Rome.

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano used to be the primary residence of the Pope and remains his official seat to this day, even though he now lives in Vatican City and rarely comes to this church.

It was first built in the 4th century, making it the oldest public church in Rome, but was frequently altered before being almost completely rebuilt in the Baroque style during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is where to go in Rome.

Just looking at the church from the outside is an awe-inspiring experience. The facade is adorned with enormous statues such as the 7-meter (23 feet) high statue of Jesus Christ and statues of the 12 apostles.

Inside the church, you will see beautiful frescoes and reliefs adorning the walls, and the altar displays a small wooden table that is believed to have been used by St. Peter during the first Christian Mass. 

San Giovanni in Laterano Opening Hours: 7.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. (daily)

23. Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs)

Baths of Diocletian - National museum of Rome.

dearbarbie , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The facade of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri is bare, (some might even call it weird for a church) and you could easily walk by without even thinking of going in.

However, the outside hides a beautiful church with massive frescoes and some colored marble columns.

Designed by Michelangelo, it was built in the 16th century in the old frigidarium of the Roman Baths of Diocletian to honor the Christian slaves who died building the baths.

One of the highlights of this church is the Meridian Line which is 45 meters (148 feet) long. It is made of bronze and has marble flooring surrounding it. It works as a calendar and tells when it is noon and when the solstice will arrive.

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri Opening Hours: 7.00 a.m. – 7.30 p.m. (Daily)

Map of the Most Beautiful Churches in Rome

To help you locate these famous churches in Rome, here is an interactive map!

How to Use this Map:  Just click on the church icon on the map above and the location will be displayed on the left side of the screen. You can choose to either “view on google maps” and save the location for later or you can click on the itinerary arrow to get directions on how to get there.

Final Thoughts on the Famous Churches in Rome

I hope that I have helped you choose the churches and basilicas to visit during your time in Rome.

These famous churches of Rome not only show spirituality but also the mastery of architecture and design by talented artists.

Many famous painters have left their mark on a number of them to the extent that you will feel that you are visiting a museum.

The best part is that most of them are free so even if you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll still be able to enjoy them.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Rome

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  • Famous piazzas in Rome
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Was this post on the famous churches of Rome helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others

Are you looking for the most famous churches in Rome? Then this article will give a list of 23 of the must-visit Rome churches and basilicas! From Medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, these churches and basilicas in Rome are not only beautiful outside but also on the inside. So read on to learn about some of the best churches in Rome that I believe you'll like.

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Top Churches to Visit in Rome

free churches to visit in rome

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Rome has many interesting churches with fine artwork worth a visit. Many churches stay open all day but some close for a few hours in the afternoon. These churches have free entrance but some have museums, cloisters, or archaeological areas with a fee.

When entering a church you're expected to be quiet and respectful. Men should remove hats. Some churches won't let you in wearing shorts or sleeveless tops. Most churches allow photos inside with some restrictions.

San Giovanni Laterano - Cathedral of Rome

San Giovanni , Saint John, is Rome's cathedral and the first church of the popes, from the fourth century until the papacy moved to France in 1309. The pope's residence was in the adjoining Lateran Palace. This is the site of the first Christian church ever built in Rome. The current church is Baroque and has cloisters and a museum that can be visited. Be sure to visit the baptistery next door and the Scala Santa and Sancta Sanctorum across the street.

Saint Peter's Basilica - San Pietro in Vaticano

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

St. Peter's Basilica, San Pietro in Vaticano , is in Vatican City so technically not in Rome. San Pietro is the current church of the pope and one of the largest and most important Catholic churches in the world. Inside the vast interior, there's lots of marble, bronze, and gold artwork, including Michelangelo's Pieta . You can visit Saint Peter's for free but you'll have to pay to see the adjoining Sistine Chapel , with its famous frescoes by Michelangelo and Botticelli, and the Vatican Museums .

Santa Maria Maggiore

Another of the four papal churches, Santa Maria Maggiore has beautiful 5th-century Biblical mosaics. The marble floor, bell tower, and mosaics on the triumphal arch and in the loggia are medieval. Its spectacular ceiling is said to be decorated with gold Columbus brought back from the new world.

The fourth patriarchal or papal church of Rome is San Paulo Fuori la Mura , Saint Paul Outside the Walls, two kilometers from the San Paolo Gate along via Ostiense. It also holds many art treasures and relics including the chains believed to have been used on Paul when he was under arrest.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon, built in the year 118 as the Roman temple of all gods, is the best preserved ancient building in Rome. Its vast dome has a circular opening at the top that lets in the only light. In the seventh century, early Christians turned the Pantheon into a church. Inside are many tombs, some holding the bodies of Italian monarchs.

San Clemente

San Clemente , near the Colosseum, is my favorite because of its layers of archaeological excavations underneath, illustrating Rome's interesting history. The current 12th-century church sits on top of the 4th-century church that was built over ruins of 1st-century Roman buildings and a 2nd-century Mithraic cult chamber. The best way to visit the excavations is on a guided tour.

San Pietro in Vincoli - Saint Peter in Chains

San Pietro in Vincoli , also near the Colosseum, was founded in the fifth century to hold the chains that are believed to be those that held St. Peter captive in Mamertine Prison. According to legend, one set of chains was sent to Constantinople and when it was returned to Rome, the two parts miraculously fused together. The church is also home of the famous statue of Moses by Michelangelo, the center of the work known as the tomb of Julius II.

Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, Holy Cross in Jerusalem, is one of Rome's popular pilgrimage churches. Santa Croce is a beautiful Baroque church known for its collection of relics. There's also a replica of the Shroud of Turin, the shrine of a young girl being considered for sainthood, and 15th-century frescoes in the apse. Santa Croce started as a church in the fourth century and still has granite columns from the original church. It's been remodeled several times and the church we see today is from the 18th century remodel.

The monastic and archaeological complex includes gardens set in the Castrense amphitheater. There's also a hotel run by the monks, Domus Sessoriana . Santa Croce is near San Giovanni in Laterano (see above).

Santa Maria in Cosmedin

Santa Maria in Cosmedin , between the river and the Circus Maximus, is the most important Greek church in Rome and has some beautiful Byzantine mosaics. In front you'll see lots of tourists sticking their hands into the Boca Della Verita , mouth of truth, a medieval drain cover sculpted to look like a face. According to medieval legend, if you've been untruthful the mouth will snap shut and cut off your hand. Try it at your own risk!

Santa Maria in Trastevere

TripSavvy / Deanna Mazzola

Trastevere is the neighborhood across the Tiber River from Rome's historic center. Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of Rome's oldest churches and believed to be the first church in Rome dedicated to the Virgen Mary. It originally dates from the late third to early fourth century but was rebuilt in the twelfth century. The church is famous for a Byzantine mosaic behind the altar and a number of 13th-century mosaics. The piazza has a beautiful octagonal fountain.

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Another of Rome's Santa Maria churches, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva by the Pantheon is Rome's only Gothic-style church. It was built in the 13th century over what is believed to have been the Temple of Minerva. There's a good collection of art here, including another Michelangelo, Christ Carrying the Cross , and the tombs of St. Catherine, Fra Angelico, and the 16th century Medici popes. Outside is a Bernini sculpture of an elephant with an obelisk on its back.

Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo , in Piazza del Popolo , was one of the first Renaissance churches in Rome. The church features Caravaggio's Martyrdom of St. Peter and Conversion of St. Paul . In the Chigi Chapel , created by Raphael, are ceiling mosaics and pyramid-like tombs as well as statues by Bernini.

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  • Art & Culture

Church Hopping In Rome: 10 Churches You Can’t Miss

free churches to visit in rome

  • May 9, 2023

In many countries, visiting churches may feel unorthodox, but in Italy, these sacred places are considered works of art. If you love visiting museums or experiencing culture during your travels, then you should dedicate a day to visit the many churches in Rome.

Churches in Italy are always free to visit, as they are places of worship. And we’re not just talking about St. Peter’s Basilica. Rome is home to over 900 beautiful churches, many of which are built atop ancient Roman ruins and temples. Some churches even house famous works of art by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Bernini.

Our 10 Favorite Churches In Rome

Churches are holy sites, so make sure to cover your knees and shoulder when visiting. You can bring a scarf or jacket to cover low-cut dresses and spaghetti straps. If you visit during mass, try to be as quiet as possible out of respect for those attending the service. You can take photos, but avoid being too disruptive. Be sure to check the church times, as many are closed between 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. And don’t forget to head below ground to visit the crypts!

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

free churches to visit in rome

The Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere was established in the 5th century. This beautiful church is devoted to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music. Martyred under Emperor Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander during the 3rd century, it is speculated that the church was built atop Cecilia’s home, which houses her remains today. Located in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, the basilica, with its beautiful 18th-century facade, is enclosed by a courtyard. Wander inside to admire ancient mosaics, columns, a fountain, and gorgeous rose bushes.

When you enter the church, you’ll find a beautiful 9th-century apse mosaic with Saints Paul, Cecilia, Paschal I, Peter, Valerian, and Agatha. Below that lies a baroque sculpture of Saint Cecilia herself by Stefano Maderno. This church also has a surprise beneath its marble floors.

Pay a €2.50 fee to the sweet Benedictine nun just inside the tiny gift shop to go down and see the crypt! Winding your way through the corridors of the ancient Roman house, you’ll soon come upon a small golden chapel. This stunning shrine is a sea of marble columns and vaulted ceilings with angels. Not to mention gorgeous cosmatesque floors and walls (featuring geometric decorative inlay stonework) floors and walls.

Basilica di Santa Prassede

free churches to visit in rome

If there is a site in Rome that will teach you not to judge a church by its cover, it’ll be the Basilica of Santa Prassede. Though it is located near the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (one of the four papal basilicas in Rome), this church is easy to miss. Its simple orange-colored facade sits low and flat, squashed between other buildings and alleyways. The interior, however, is gorgeous — with some of the oldest mosaics in the city. The church is devoted to Saint Praxedes and houses her relics, as well as those of her sister Saint Pudentiana.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful 16th-century frescoes illustrating the Passion of the Christ, cosmatesque floors (we can never get enough), and shimmering 9th-century mosaics. But it’s the tiny Chapel of St Zeno that deserves a standing ovation. Located just off to the right of the nave, this tiny space makes you feel like you’ve fallen into a golden jewelry box. Built by Pope Paschal I as a mausoleum for his mother, Theodora, the chapel boasts wall-to-ceiling mosaics. The ceiling mosaic depicts Christ in the center, with four angles stemming from the corners, upholding His image. So don’t let the understated facade of this basilica fool you. The Basilica di Santa Prassede is one of the most beautiful monuments in Rome.

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

free churches to visit in rome

The Basilica of St. Mary and the Angels and Martyrs is another lesson in not judging a book by its cover. The church is located in the famous Piazza della Repubblica: a large rotunda often featured in Italian movies. Instead of being built on top of an ancient site, it was built within an ancient site! This church is set inside the ancient frigidarium — the cold bath chamber in Roman baths — of the next-door Baths of Diocletian (now an archeological ruin and museum). The unique concave shape of the baths acts as the facade for the present-day church.

The church was built in the 16th century and designed by Michaelangelo Buonarroti (yes, that Michaelangelo). Michelangelo worked for over a year to adapt a section of the bath structures to enclose the church. The inside is based on the shape of a Greek cross and expands horizontally, rather than vertically. You can admire red granite Roman columns, white vaulted ceilings, and a unique geographical feature. In the 18th century, Pope Clement XI commissioned Francesco Bianchini, an astronomer, mathematician, and archaeologist, to build a meridian line within the church, which you can still see today.

Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano

free churches to visit in rome

The Basilica of San Clemente has always reminded me of a Russian nesting doll. The church is a three-tiered complex of buildings: the present basilica was built in the 12th century atop a 4th-century basilica, that was built out of an ancient Roman home, that was built atop a Republican-era villa that was destroyed in the Great Fire of 64 AD. Even then, the basilica had many uses during the 1st and 2nd centuries. Today, you can see this mish-mash of structures by going down into the crypt.

When you enter the church, you will be greeted by the 13th-century Byzantine mosaics, cosmatesque floors, and spolia. Spolia are recycled elements taken from other structures, in this case, the antique columns in the nave are spolia. None of them match. When you’re in this church, don’t forget to look up! The carved and gilded coffered ceilings with gorgeous paintings are just as beautiful as the altar. When you’re ready, descend into the crypt to explore the ruins of an ancient home. Here you can admire the exquisite frescoes that depict the life of St Clement.

Santi Quattro Coronati

free churches to visit in rome

A short walk from San Clemente, Santi Quattro Coronati is another magnificent church that dates back to the 4th century. The church boasts two picturesque courtyards, a fortified palace, and a monastery that features an exquisite cosmatesque cloister. One of the church’s most unique features is the awe-inspiring Aula Gotica. Discovered by art historian Andreina Draghi in 1995, it is located in the Gothic Hall of the Torre Maggiore. The hall contains a stunning display of frescoes dating back to the 13th century. These frescoes represent allegorical depictions of the Twelve Months, the Liberal Arts, the Four Seasons, and the Zodiac. They were well-preserved under a thick layer of plaster added in the 14th century for protection against The Black Death.

While the rest of the church is free to visit, you must book a reservation and pay 10 euros to visit these paintings. The reason being they cannot accommodate more than 20 people in the hall at once. You can book your guided tour on their website and pay when you arrive. Note: bring cash, as monasteries are not generally equipped to accept cards or Apple Pay.

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

free churches to visit in rome

After almost three years of extensive renovations, the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is finally open to the public again! Despite its proximity to the Pantheon, this church is often overlooked due to its unassuming exterior. Located in Piazza Minerva, the church’s plain white facade features three rose windows and an entrance door. Before entering, take a moment to admire Bernini’s elephant statue in the piazza. This stone elephant, featuring one of Rome’s many obelisks, is another of the city’s hidden gems.

As soon as you step inside the church, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported into a box filled with dazzling blue Lapis Lazuli. The vaulted ceilings of the nave are painted a brilliant blue hue, mimicking the night sky with paintings of saints and prophets. The church is also notable for being the burial site of Catherine of Siena, the patron saint of Italy. The famous early Renaissance painter Fra Angelico died in the adjoining convent and was also buried in the church.

If you’re lucky, the doors to the convent will be open and you’ll be able to peek inside the beautiful cloister and pet some friendly cats.

Santa Maria dell’Orto

free churches to visit in rome

Santa Maria dell’Orto , a gilded church in Trastevere, is located in an area believed to have been the encampment of the Etruscan king Porsena. This area around the church was originally used for farming and trading. The church served as a vital reference point for the local guilds or ‘Universities’ and consisted of grocers, butchers, artisans, and merchants.

This sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Inside, you’ll be captivated by the exquisite depictions of the Virgin’s life. The frescoes feature scenes such as the Annunciation, Nativity, Presentation at the Temple, Marriage, and Visitation, adorning the walls. The Assumption into Heaven and Coronation are painted on the ceiling. Surrounded by thick golden garlands and white sculptures of angels, these gorgeous frescoes certainly add to the church’s grandeur. Despite the multitude of must-see monuments in Rome, we highly recommend taking some time to explore this breathtaking church and marvel at its splendor.

Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa

free churches to visit in rome

Nearby, San Francesco a Ripa is a church devoted to Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. Legend has it that St Francis once stayed at a convent adjacent to the church. Although it is relatively simple in design and often overlooked by visitors, this 17th-century church served as barracks from 1873-1943. It also harbors a beautiful surprise within its walls.

Located in the left transept (the two parts forming the arms of the cross shape, usually extending from the altar) lies the chapel of Paluzzi-Albertoni. In this chapel is one of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s 17th-century Baroque masterpieces: the sculpture of Beata Ludovica Albertoni. Although Bernini’s sculpture is my favorite, this church has many other notable artworks, such as the St Francis cycle by Pietro Cavallini.

Basilica Papale di San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura

free churches to visit in rome

The Basilica di San Lorenzo Fuori Le Mura (Saint Lawrence Outside The Walls) is a church visit I won’t soon forget. True to its name, the church is well outside the Aurelian walls that delineate Rome’s historic center. It lies in the eastern San Lorenzo neighborhood. However, it is well worth the trip. The church is devoted to Saint Lawrence, who was martyred in the 3rd century and is the patron saint of chefs and comedians. While that may seem completely random, it goes back to the story of his martyrdom. He was placed on a gridiron with hot coals beneath it and after a while, declared: “I’m well done on this side. Turn me over!”

Like many other churches in Rome, this basilica has undergone many renovations and changes throughout the centuries. This includes the additions of the monastery and the beautiful 13th-century bell tower. In fact, the present church is the result of the fusion of two precious buildings.

Although it was bombed during WWII, the structure remains essentially unchanged. The entrance portico will immediately capture your attention, with its collection of six decorated medieval columns, sarcophagi, and marble slabs. Not to mention the beautifully painted frescoes on the walls depicting the lives of Saints Lawrence and Stephen. The interior is just as richly decorated. As you cross the threshold, you will be entranced by the beauty of the cosmatesque floors, the papal throne, the round arches of the gallery, and the luscious courtyard.

San Giovanni in Laterano

free churches to visit in rome

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is another veritable onion, with a rich and long history of uses, restorations, and adjoining buildings. San Giovanni forms part of the Lateran Complex which comprises the Basilica, the Cloister, the Baptistery, the Lateran Palace, and the Holy Stairs, which enclose the Papal Chapel called Sancta Sanctorum. All of which you can visit, so it’ll be good to dedicate an entire day to this one if you can. The Basilica is the oldest and most important of the four major papal basilicas in Rome. While the building suffered severe fires in the 14th century, it was renovated in the late 16th century, and completed in 1735.

Basilica & the Baptistery

Of the complex, only the Basilica and the Baptistery are free to visit. The cloister and the Holy Stairs charge around 2 euros for admission. Adjacent to the Basilica is the Lateran Palace, which used to be the main residence of the popes before moving to the Vatican. Today the palace functions as a museum. Under the direction of the artist Borromini, the basilica standing today is a splendid sight to behold. Its coffered, gilded ceilings, white marble sculptures, cosmatesque floors, and glittering apse mosaic will make your trip a memorable one.

The baptistery, also adjacent to the church, is an octagonal building founded in 440 and built atop an earlier site. Around the central area, surrounding the basin, two levels of eight red porphyry columns form an octagon. And on the ceiling, lies paintings depicting the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312 AD).

free churches to visit in rome

The rich history and artworks within these churches prove that Rome can indeed be experienced on a budget. And even completely for free! These beautiful sites are more than just places of worship, they were created to be works of art in and of themselves.

In this article:

free churches to visit in rome

Post written by: Odette Lopez

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11 October 2016 · 14 Comments

15 Must-Visit Churches in Rome

Destinations · Italy

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With over 900 churches in Rome, it can be hard to pick out the ones you need to visit. One of the things I love about Rome is that no matter what church you wander into, you’ll most likely come across some sort of masterpiece. This, however, makes it hard to pick which churches in Rome are worth entering. Luckily, I saw plenty of beautiful churches on my travels in Rome and know which churches in Rome you must visit. In this post, you’ll find what I think are 15 of the most beautiful churches in Rome, each one worth a visit, and many of them almost empty. Scroll to the bottom for a map of where these must-visit churches are located in Rome.

*Keep in mind that you will need to dress conservatively, especially if you visit churches in the summer! No tank tops , hats, etc.

*Be respectful of worshippers whilst there. Quiet voices, no flash photography !

(There are so many more churches I could have included on this list. These are just my favorite!)

pantheon

Probably the most famous church on this list, the Pantheon is a former Roman temple (not to be confused with the Parthenon, which is in Greece) that was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Agustus (27 BC – 14 AD) and dedicated by Hadrian around 126 AD. It officially became a Christian church in the 7th century. It’s probably most famous for its domed ceiling that has an oculus (partially shown in the picture above). I attended part of a midnight Christmas Eve mass here and it was magical. You must visit!

Piazza della Rotunda, 00186 Roma

St. John Lateran’s Archbasilica

This basilica is the official seat of the bishop of Rome, who is the Pope. Because it is the cathedral of the bishop of Rome, it ranks above all other churches in the Catholic Church, including St. Peter’s Basilica . Crazy, right? It’s the oldest church in the West and was founded around 312, dedicated in 324 and has [obviously] been refurbished several times. 

The High Altar supposedly contains the heads of Sts. Peter and Paul and part of St. Peter’s communion table. French President Emmanuel Macron is ex officio the “first and only honorary canon” of the archbasilica, a title that the heads of state of France have possessed since King Henry IV. 

Piazza de S. Giovanni in Laterano, 4, Roma

Santi Quattro Coronati

quattro-coronati

Santi Quattro Coronati (“Four Crowned Martyrs”), dating back to the 4th or 5th century, is dedicated to four Roman soldiers who refused to sacrifice to a pagan god (there is still some confusion about this). It is one of those churches that doesn’t look like a church from the outside and a place we would have never  found had it not been for our guide. On the road leading up to the church, the possibly real, possibly legendary, female pope gave birth on her way to be crowned at St. John in Lateran. I only took one picture inside, as people were praying and I didn’t want to be rude, but it was beautiful! 

quattro-coronati-cloisters

While you’re there, head to the attached cloisters, the entrance to which is locked and only opened from the outside by Augustinian nuns (I might add that once a nun enters this convent she will not leave for anything until she dies). The walls are covered with old Christian graffiti and parts of sarcophagi and the courtyard was picturesque, even in the middle of winter.

Via dei Santi Quattro, 20, 00184 Roma

Chapel of St. Sylvester

st-sylvester

Also hidden behind a locked door requiring the ringing of a bell, the Chapel of St. Sylvester is connected to Santi Quattro Coronati. Our tour guide described it as the early Vatican and I can see why. It’s tiny but the artwork is immaculate. It’s definitely a special place, making it a definite must-visit church in Rome. The Chapel was constructed in 1246 and the frescoes, depicting events from Constantine’s life, are also from this date. And they’re in such amazing condition.

Basilica San Clemente al Laterano

san-clemente

This church dates back 2000 years in time. Yes, you read that right. The basilica we see today was built in the 1100s and rebuilt in the 1800s but excavations under the church have revealed the church from the 400s one level below and then below that  the remains of first-century buildings, comprised of an apartment (where there was a Mithraic temple) and a mansion (where St. Clement supposedly lived and Christians worshiped). Going underground was literally stepping back in time. I believe it was about 8 euros per person, and worth every cent. Unfortunately, pictures weren’t allowed underground so I don’t have anything to show you. But trust me, this church is 100% worth the trip.

Via Labicana, 95, 00184 Roma

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

santa-maria-angeli-church

This is a church built in the frigidarium of the Baths of Diocletian, which was one of the most impressive structures in Ancient Rome. You can see some of the ruins in the photo above. The tepidarium is included in the present transept of the church. Basically combining some of my favorite things: churches and Roman ruins! The church was designed by Michelangelo (his last architectural work, finished when he was 86) and dedicated to Christian martyrs. It was a lot bigger than I thought it was going to be and it had some really cool stuff inside. Plus, the ruins on the lot were a plus as well!

The church boasts a meridian that was ordered by Pope Innocent II and added in 1702. It traces the precise time of the sun’s zenith and the polar star’s movements. The sun’s rays shine through a hole in the south wall onto the floor, striking the line of copper plated brass at exactly 12 noon. There are pictures of the zodiac all along this line. It was stunning! You  must visit this church in Rome. 

Piazza della Repubblica, Roma

San Pietro in Vincoli (St. Peter in Chains)

st-peters-chains

Built on older foundations in the 400s to house the chains you see above, St. Peter in Chains has undergone several renovations to make it the grand basilica it is today. This church houses Michelangelo’s famous sculpture of Moses, part of the tomb of Pope Julius II (of whom Michelangelo was not a fan). It also houses the relic of the chains that bounded St. Peter while he was imprisoned in Jerusalem.

Piazza de San Pietro in Vincoli, 4/a, 00184 Roma

Chiesa del Gesu

chiesa-gesu

This church is the mother church of the Jesuits. It was built in the 16th century and its interior is one of the foremost examples of Baroque art and uses tromp l’oeil (tricks the eye into thinking 2D images are 3D). Its facade is the “first truly baroque facade” and has served as a model for a lot of Jesuit churches throughout the world. 

Via degli Astalli, 16, 00186 Roma

Church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola (Saint Ignatius of Loyola)

st-ignatius-church

Eponymously dedicated to the founder of the Jesuits, it was built in the Baroque style between 1626 and 1650. It also has a false dome, which was too hard to photograph.

Via dei Caravita, 8a, 00186 Roma

Basilica Santa Maria sopra Minerva

church-santa-maria-sopra-minerva

This church is one of the major churches of the Dominicans. Sopra (or supra, in Latin) Minerva points out that it was built directly over the ruins of a temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis (wrongly thought to be a temple for Minerva). It is the only example of a Gothic church in Rome! It also houses Michelangelo’s Christ the Redeemer statue. Construction began in the late 1200s and was finally completed in 1453. 

Piazza della Minerva, 42, 00186 Roma

Chiesa di Sant’Agostino

church-agostino-2

The Church of St. Augustine was one of the first Roman churches built during the Renaissance. The facade took travertine from the Colosseum. There is a famous painting by Caravaggio inside as well as a famous painting of the Prophet Isaiah by Raphael.

Piazza di Sant’Agostino, Roma

Santa Maria Ai Monti

santa-maria-ai-monti

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this church was commissioned and consecrated in the late 1500s after the discovery of a painting of Mary discovered in nearby church ruins. I just loved the artwork inside. 

Via della Madonna dei Monti, 41, 00184 Roma

Santa Maria in Aquiro

in-aquiro-church

This is an ancient church that was restored in the 8th century by Pope Gregory III, meaning that it existed some time before then. It was restored again in 1588. It’s a rather quaint church (as quaint as a church can be in Rome) but well worth the visit, as it houses some beautiful art. 

Via del Guglia, 69/B, Roma

Parrocchia San Camillo de Lellis

san-camillo-de-lellis

This quiet church was built in 1910 in a Neo-Gothic style. It was really nice entering at a time when the sun was shining in the stained glass windows and reflecting onto the stone walls!

Via Sallustiana, 24, 00187 Roma

Church of Jesus and Mary (Gesu e Maria)

jesu-and-mary-church

This church was built in the early 1600s and has a beautiful baroque interior.

Via del Corso, 45, 00186 Roma

What’s your favorite church in Rome? Keep scrolling for a map of the must-visit churches in Rome.

Looking for more on Rome? Read my post on must-visit monuments in the Roman Forum.

Rome is full of beautiful churches--These are the ones you need to see when you visit the Eternal City!

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Reader interactions.

12 October 2016 at 01:17

I’m planning a trip to Rome and put so many churches on my list. I will downsize a bit, thanks to your list.

almathews says

12 October 2016 at 19:53

Glad to help! Even if you don’t make it to all of these, you’re bound to find some sort of masterpiece in whatever church you enter!

Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says

12 October 2016 at 05:59

I’ve been to Rome. Pantheon was truly splendid!

Valerie says

12 October 2016 at 12:21

Gah, the churches in Rome are SO beautiful. I could spend a life time exploring them all, I think!

12 October 2016 at 20:02

Agreed! I would LOVE to go back and just slowly check each church off the list until I visit all of them! Thanks for your comment :)

Elizabeth Ann says

12 October 2016 at 17:20

These images are beautiful! I hope to make it to Rome one day. I love all the architecture and attention to detail. Simply exquisite.

12 October 2016 at 20:11

Thank you! Definitely head to Rome if you get a chance. The whole city is basically a museum, with so much beautiful art and such a long history!

Tami @ The Inspiration Lady says

12 October 2016 at 18:24

Wow, those churches are beautiful! I’d definitely love to visit Rome someday. :) This is a great post, thanks for sharing!

12 October 2016 at 20:13

Thank you! I hope you get to make it to Rome someday soon :)

Erica @ Coming Up Roses says

13 October 2016 at 08:26

The hubs and I are DYING to go to Rome, so I’m bookmarking this for when we finally get to go!! What beautiful architecture!

Coming Up Roses

13 October 2016 at 13:19

Awesome! Its SUCH a great place to visit. I hope you can go soon!!

Brianna says

15 October 2016 at 06:23

There are so many gorgeous churches in Rome! All the artwork, architecture, and attention to detail in the design is so incredible!

18 October 2016 at 17:01

Agreed! Each one is a work of art! Thanks for your comment :)

3 November 2016 at 21:11

I’ve been to the Pantheon in Paris, which is modelled after the original Pantheon in Rome. Definitely want to go Rome’s version for sure. Also, thanks for the tip about St. John Lateran’s Archbasilica. That would be interesting to visit the Western World’s oldest continuously operating church!

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Alex | Travel Blogger/Wanderer

10 of the best churches in Rome you cannot miss

11 beautiful churches in Rome you cannot miss. Famous, important and unique churches in Rome to seek out on your first visit to Rome or dive deeper into the city’s history. Updated December 2021.

They say Rome has over 900 churches, so adding them all to your Rome itinerary would be a bit of a challenge!

While that would make a good documentary for art lovers, a more practical and realistic approach to visiting Rome churches is to start from a shortlist of the most meaningful and beautiful ones.

This is what this is list is about. Out of the many beautiful churches in Rome, I selected 10 that I believe deserve special attention.

I have chosen these best churches in Rome because they are either famous, meaningful, unique, exceptionally beautiful, or all of the above. I hope you enjoy it!

facade Santa Maria Maggiore church

The best churches in Rome: top 10 for first time visitors

St peter’s basilica.

A list of the most beautiful churches in Rome can only start with St Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece by the hand of many of the most influential architects and artists in the history of Italy.

St Peter’s Basilica is in Vatican City, an independent state within the city boundaries of Rome . However, you don’t need a passport to enter Vatican City and you can visit the basilica like any other church in town.

The basilica as we see it today is a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque artistry however, its fountains lie on the remains of the tomb of St Peter, which dates back to the I century AD.

Apse of St Peter basilica at the Vatican

Every inch of the basilica is worth seeing.

Outside, the piece that steals the show is usually the dome, the biggest in Rome and Michelangelo’s work.

Inside, the basilica has masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Pieta’ , the altar baldaquin by Bernini, an incredible statue of St Peter dating from the Middle Ages and an almost uncountable number of statues and graves carved by the hands of several artists during the course of the centuries.

The basilica is the biggest Catholic Church in the world and, on the floor of the main nave, you see marks with the sides of many other large churches in the world – fun fact if you are visiting Vatican City with kids !

You can read here >> all about St Peter’s Basilica and tips for visiting

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

What to see nearby: Vatican City including Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel , Castel Sant’Angelo , Vatican Gardens

The Pantheon, Church of Santa Maria dei Martiri

The Pantheon is a church like no other for appearance and history.

The building dates to the I century BC and was in origin a pagan temple to ‘all Gods’ (from Greek pan=all, theos=Gods) and became a Christian Church in the VII century AD by Pope Bonifacio IV.

The outside of the Pantheon, ancient Roman temple and now of the best Rome churches to visit

Many things make the Pantheon unique and worth seeing.

The first thing that usually captures visitor’s imagination is the fact that the Pantheon has a round shape, not unique in Rome but not standard either.

The second thing is that the Pantheon has a round hole on its roof, the oculus: this is there by design and has sparked uncountable conversations and legends about is presence and use!

Attentive visitors will also notice that the columns outside are exceptionally large, something that makes the Pantheon stand our from many other buildings in the city. Finally, the Pantheon is the resting place of Raffaello Sanzio (Raphael), whose grave attracts here many.

The Pantheon is easy to add to your Rome itinerary even if you just have one day in Rome .

You can learn here >>> all about the Pantheon and tips for visiting .

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome

What to see nearby: Piazza di Pietra, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps , Piazza Venezia, Rome’s cobbled streets

Santa Maria Maggiore – Rome’s cathedral

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the biggest and most important churches in Rome. One of the 4 city’s basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore is the only basilica to have maintained its Paleochristian shape and its birth is enveloped in legend.

According to ancient document, the church was born by wish of Mary herself, who marked the location of her future church with a shower of snow in August!

The church is stunning and worth a visit. Outside, worth noticing are its beautiful mosaics and tower bell while inside, you cannot miss the mosaics in the church apse, the comateschi decorations of its pavement and the many side chapels.

The church preserves masterpiece by Della Porta, Gerolamo Siciolante da Sermoneta, Arnolfo di Cambio and it is also home Bernini’s family tomb.

Find here >>> my complete guide to visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome .

Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

What to see nearby: Santa Prassede, Monti neighborhood

Santa Prassede – one of the best churches in Rome for mosaic lovers

Santa Prassede is a beautiful, ancient church in Rome famous for incredible mosaics unique in the city.

free churches to visit in rome

The church is in the Monti District , on top of the Esquiline hill, one of the seven historical hills of Rome , and it lies close to Santa Maria Maggiore. However, to could not be more different!

While Santa Maria Maggiore is large and moumental, Santa Prassede has an intimate atposphere, made even more magical by the stunning mosaics that decorate its apse and the side chapel of St Zeno, a unique example of Bizantine style mosaics in Rome and home to a reliquary from the Passion of Jesus.

The church is one of the best places to see mosaics in Rome and it is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome. I believe it is the most beautiful of all!

Address: Via di Santa Prassede, 9/a, 00184 Rome

What to see nearby: Santa Maria Maggiore, Monti District, church of Santa Pudenziana

San Pietro in Vincoli (St Peter in Chains)

San Pietro in Vincoli is a stunning church on the Oppian Hill, near the Colosseum, with something special: a famous statue of Moses by Michelangelo and the reliquary of the chains from the martyrdom of St Peter.

Main altar san pietro in Vincoli church Rome

The church is beautiful and significant. The reliquary of the chains is in front of the main altar and is connected to a miracle.

Ancient documents report that St Peter’s chains were made of two parts, which followed different fates. The moment the two parts were put beside each other again, they fused miraculously and returned hole. This is what it is said we see now in the church.

The Moses by Michelangelo is beside the altar and it is part of the large burial monument to Pope Julius II. The statue is considered one of the most important and most beautiful the Master ever made and it is famous for depicting Moses right after he got the Tables and with peculiar little horns on his head.

You can read here >>> all about Michelangelo’s Moses and San Pietro in Vincoli church , including legends and tips for visiting.

Address:  Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli, 4/a, 00184 Rome

What to see nearby: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, Monti neighborhood, Piazza Venezia

San Luigi dei Francesi – one of the best churches in Rome for Caravaggio lovers

The church of San Luigi dei Francesi is a beautiful church in Rome City Center famous for being home to a stunning Caravaggio: the cycle of St Matthew’s in the Contarelli Chapel.

Painting by Caravaggio in the church of San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome, Italy

The cycle is made of three paintings that occupy the three sides of one of the chapels on the left perimeter of the church and it is what draws most visitors to this church however, there is more than Caravaggio that makes this church worth a visit.

The church dates to the XVI century and it is a jewel of Baroque architecture. It was built as a church for the French community in Rome (hence the name) and its creator was Domenico Fontana who build it on an original project by Giacomo della Porta.

Worth seeing inside are the already mentioned Caravaggio but also masterpieces by Domenichino and Guido Reni.

Address: Piazza di S. Luigi de’ Francesi, 00186 Rome

What to see nearby: Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori , Rome’s famous cobbled streets

Basilica di San Clemente

Basilica di San Clemente is unique as it develops over three layers, each dating back to a different historical time.

San Clemente church Rome inside

The bottom layer dates to Republican Roman times and seems to have been a Roman home and a temple to the Mithra, dating from the I century BC.

The second layer reveals a PaleoChristian basilica from the IV century and the current top level is a basilica that dates from the XI century AD and that is home to some of the most beautiful mosaics in Rome.

It is not unusual to come across buildings built on top of more ancient ones in Rome.

As Christianity took hold, christian and then Catholic Churches rose on top of ancient temples, reusing and transforming ancient spaces to suit the needs of the new creed.

This practice is one of the several reasons why there are are many underground sites in Rome .

However, no other place shows this stratification as well as San Clemente.

Because of the uniqueness of the church and how beautiful it is, this is one of the churches in Rome I most dearly recommend you visit.

Address: Via Labicana, 95, 00184 Rome

What to see nearby: Colosseum , Roman Forum and Palatine Hill , Circus Maximum , St Peter in Chains (see above)

Basilica of Santa Costanza

Santa Costanza is a small church outside Rome City Center, part of an archeological complex built by will of Costanza, the daughter of Emperor Constantine the Great.

The church dates back to the IV century AD and has a peculiar round shape that is rare in the city and bears witness to the antiquity of the building.

The altar is located in the center of the church and light steams in from the top windows, creating an atmospheric suffused light that reveals the ancient mosaics on the church walls.

Santa Costanza is only occasionally open to the public and it is a sought-after church for weddings especially. It is however worth the effort of planning a visit as it is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful churches in Rome.

Address: Via Nomentana 349, 00198 Rome

What to see nearby: St Agnese church (part of the same complex), Coppede’ district is a 20 mins walk from here.

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

The church os Santa Maria Sopra Minerva overlooks pretty Piazza della Minerva , famous for a statue by Bernini, and it is worth visiting because of its beautiful blue vaulted ceiling and the presence of important tombs and works of art.

Statue of the Virgin inside the Church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, Rome, Italy

Not to be missed here are the Resurrected Christ by Michelangelo, a burial monument by Bernini, and the side chapels, adorned by work by Giacomo Della Porta, Carlo Maderno and Girolamo Rainaldi.

The church is often missed by visitors who are drawn to the Pantheon, just in front. However, the incredible ceiling that looks like a night sky and Michelangelo’s Christ in particular make this church truly unforgettable.

Address: Piazza della Minerva 42, 00186 Rome

What to see nearby: Pantheon, Piazza Navona , Largo di Torre Argentina, Trevi Fountain , Capitoline Hill

Santa Maria in Trastevere

Santa Maria in Trastevere is a beautiful church dating from the XII century mostly known for its incredible mosaics.

Mosaic in Rome Santa Maria in Trastevere

As you enter the church, your eyes are drawn towards the altar and the golden apse behind it, dominated by images of Christ and Mary and entirely made of small mosaics tiles.

The mosaic is eye-grabbing for its large use of golden tyles and has a distinct Byzantine aesthetic to it, which is not commong in Rome.

However, art lovers will notice that the real gem here is the mosaic immediately below it. These lower mosaics date from the end of the XIII century and depict scenes from the life of the Virgin.

The artist of these mosaics is Pietro Cavallini and what makes them special is the fact that he mixed influences from Byzantine art with more modern influences, for the time, such as perspective and a hint to the third dimention of his figures.

These elements bear witness to work made at a time of aesthetic and pictorial changes that make these mosaics unique.

Address: Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, 00153 Rome

What to see nearby: Trastevere neighborhood , Rome botanical gardens, Santa Cecilia church, Tiberina Island

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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August 25, 2023

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome's most impressive churches. Find out the other ones right here!

St. Peter’s Basilica  is one of the most impressive churches in the world, so it’s easy for travelers to forget that Rome has over 900 churches, and many of them are frankly, incredible. If you just want to pop into St. Peter’s we fully understand – read our  insiders’ guide to St. Peter’s for the best visiting  tips  – but if you want to branch out just a little more there is a staggering collection of beauty and religious significance awaiting you. Here’s a short list of our picks for the best churches in Rome to visit on a pilgrimage to Rome or if you are just visiting and love amazing architecture and beautiful art.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

As the largest of the churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary,  St. Mary Major is one of the city’s most important. Filled with artefacts and art, every inch of the church seems to be a part of religious history. Though its beautiful 18th-century façade appears Baroque, it’s actually one of the oldest churches in Rome, built around 440.

Some of the best examples of the church’s long history are the 5th-century mosaics on the triumphal arch above the main altar along with those on the nave walls, which depict 36 scenes from the Old Testament. Since it hasn’t been remodelled or rebuilt like Rome’s other major basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the Rome’s best examples of an Early Christian basilica. Today, it’s considered a top church for anyone considering a Rome pilgrimage from around the world.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

The external façade of the apse on the north-west of the church on Piazza dell’Esquilino

Each year on August 5th, thousands of white petals fall from the ceiling during the Basilica’s  Miracle of the Snows  celebration, an event commemorating the legend of a miraculous summer snowfall.

More Information: The Basilica is free and open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. The museum costs €4 and is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, Latium, 00185, tel. 06-69886802

San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura

Okay, this isn’t exactly considered one of the churches  in  Rome: Constantine built the St. Lawrence Outside of the Walls Basilica, just outside of Rome over the tomb of St. Lawrence, a martyr and one of the first deacons of Rome. Today it remains a shrine to the saint, as well as St. Stephen and St. Justin. The church dates back to the 6 th  century, and the triumphal arch still shows Byzantine mosaics from that era depicting Christ with the saints. 13 th -century frescoes decorate the exterior and opposite the tomb of St. Lawrence is the “stone of St. Lawrence,” a marble slab with a large stain where the saint’s body was laid after his execution. The Basilica has been funded by nearly every Pope since its construction, changing the small shrine into one of the largest religious complexes just outside the walls of Rome. It remains an important place of worship and site for Rome pilgrimages.

Inside the cloister

Inside the cloister

More Information: Piazzale Del Verano, 3 Quartiere San Lorenzo, 00185, tel. 06 44 66 184

San Giovanni in Laterano

St. John Lateran is actually the official cathedral of Rome (not St. Peter’s!) and is the seat of the bishop of Rome – a.k.a. the Pope. One of the four major basilicas in Rome, the cathedral was built in the 4 th century AD and is believed to be one the first Catholic churches in Rome. Unfortunately, fires, vandals and earthquakes over the years mean little remains of the original church. It now has a more Baroque style with 16th- and 17th-century restorations.

Though the façade isn’t the most impressive, the inside more than makes up for that. Frescoes, columns, mosaics and sculptures decorate nearly every inch of the ornate Roman church. The must-see sites for Roman pilgrims are the column fresco by Giotto, the altar’s rich 1367 Gothic tabernacle – holding what the faithful believe are the heads of Sts. Peter and Paul, and the Baptistery built by Emperor Constantine in AD 315. Today it’s one of the oldest surviving Christian structures in Rome, and another one of the main Roman pilgrimage churches.

St. John Lateran

The oldest public church in the city of Rome and the oldest basilica of the Western world.

More Information: The church is free and open daily from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Baptistery is open daily from 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 4 – 6:30 p.m. Piazza di Porta San Giovanni, Rome, Latium, 00185, tel. 06-69886433

Santa Maria in Trastevere

No list of jaw-dropping churches is complete without Santa Maria in  Trastevere . Not only is it one of the oldest churches in Rome, supposedly built around 350 AD, it is also one of the most impressive. This 4th-century church was likely the first church in Rome where Mass was openly celebrated and is also said to be Rome’s first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was rebuilt by Pope Innocent II, native of Trastevere, in the 12 th  century and today it boasts impressive mosaics from the 12 th  and 13 th  centuries. Two rows of 22 large columns lead up to the nave, most of which were repurposed (or stolen) from ancient Roman temples or baths, and the altar is covered in gilded mosaics. Don’t forget to look up to admire Domenichino’s gilded ceiling, completed in 1617. If you’re a lover of mosaics, don’t miss our list of where to see the  best Byzantine mosaics in Italy .

Behind the altar, Basilica of Santa Maria

Behind the altar, Basilica of Santa Maria

More Information: Church open daily from 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome, Latium, 00153, tel. 06-5814802

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva gained its name from the site it was built upon – over ( sopra)  the ruins of a temple for Minerva, the ancient goddess of wisdom. Actually, the present-day Basilica sits over the ruins of three ancient Roman temples: one for the Roman goddess Minerva, one for the Egyptian goddess Isis and one for the Greco-Egyptian god Serapis, according to the Basilica’s  website .

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is the first, and possibly the only, Gothic church existing in Rome.

Santa Maria sopra Minerva is the first, and possibly the only, Gothic church existing in Rome.

But the location isn’t what makes it one of the best churches in Rome for pilgrims, it’s the architecture. Built by the Dominicans in the 13 th  century, it is one of Rome’s few Gothic (as opposed to Baroque-style) churches, and one of the most impressive Gothic churches in Italy, along with the  controversial but absolutely jaw-dropping Milan Duomo . Enjoy the deepest blue vaulted ceilings or, for just 1 euro, illuminate the Cappella Carafa, where Filippino Lippi’s frescoes are located among other 15 th -century frescoes. You can also see a sculpture by Michelangelo and the tomb of St. Catherine of Siena, Italy’s primary patron saint.

More Information: Open weekdays from 6:45 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sat. 6:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. –  7 p.m.

Piazza della Minerva, Rome, Latium, 00186, tel. 06-6793926. For more information click here.  www.basilicaminerva.it

Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo

Travelers to Rome might overlook this inconspicuous church in the large Piazza del Popolo, but the inside is a treasure trove for art lovers. The church has seven chapels, each of which contain some of the best examples of works by Renaissance artists, including Pinturicchio, Raphael, Bernini and Caravaggio.

Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo

The Altar, Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo

Legend has it that the church was built in 1099 to dispel residents’ beliefs that the ghost of Emperor Nero was haunting the area.

More information: The Basilica is open Mon.–Thurs. 7:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 4–7 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun. 7:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 4:30–7:30 p.m. Piazza del Popolo 12, near Porta Pinciana, Rome, Latium, 00186, tel. 06-3610836. For more information click here .

The Basilica of San Clemente

St. Clement’s Basilica is located just a few blocks away from the  Colosseum  and named after St. Clement, Catholicism’s third pope. It’s real draw, however, is archeological. The 12 th -century Basilica is built on top of a 4 th  century church, which in turn was built on top of a 1 st  century pagan temple – all three of which you can visit today. It’s history directly shows that Rome was built layer after layer: the difference between the 1 st  century ground level and today’s ground level is nearly 60 feet! Check out the church’s fabulous frescoes and mosaics on the top floor, such as the glittering 12th-century mosaic in the apse showing Jesus on a cross that turns into a living tree. Then head below to tour the mithraeum, a shrine dedicated to the god Mithras, whose cult came from Persia to Rome in the 2nd and 3rd centuries before it was stamped out by Roman christians. Today it’s one of Rome’s greatest hidden underground sites.

If you’d like an expert guided tour of underground sites, take walks to explore the incredible crypts and catacombs in Rome .

Mithraeum, the Basilica of San Clemente

Mithraeum, the Basilica of San Clemente

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

St. Cecilia in Trastevere is a 9 th  century church built over the 200 AD home of St. Cecilia before she was martyred. Below the main altar is a sculpture by Stefano Maderno of the saint’s body as he saw it in the 16 th  century after she was exhumed. It’s said that her body looked as fresh as the day she was buried. The entrance to the church is slightly hidden by a façade and a beautiful Roman courtyard. A 9 th -century mosaic as well as a remarkable 13 th  century fresco titled  Last Judgement  by Pietro Cavallini, a forerunner of Giotto, decorate the inside. The fresco can be viewed only during limited hours and for a small admission fee – but it’s definitely worth it, especially for anyone on a Roman pilgrimage.

The Last Judgement by Pietro Cavallini

The Last Judgement by Pietro Cavallini

More Information: The church is free and open from 9:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. The frescoes are available from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and cost €2.50 to see. Piazza Santa Cecilia in Trastevere 22, Rome, Latium, 00153, tel. 06-5899289

Basilica di Sant’Agostino

A Roman Renaissance church, St. Augustine is filled with famous artwork that makes it one of the best of the lesser-known (among travelers) churches in Rome. Most notable is Caravaggio’s  Madonna of the Pilgrims , a scandalous painting at its time for the realistic kneeling pilgrim with dirty feet and a seemingly disrespectful image of the Madonna standing with bare feet with a less-than-regal posture. There is also Raphael’s  Isaiah , said to be inspired by Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel; Sansovino’s sculpture,  St. Anne and the Madonna with Child , and the  Madonna and Child  by Jacopo Tatti, a student of Sansovino.

Basilica di Sant’Agostino

More Information: The Basilica is open daily from 7:30 a.m to noon and 4–7:30 p.m. Piazza Sant’Agostino, Rome, Latium, 00186, tel. 06-68801962

The Pantheon

Although the Pantheon was originally a pagan construction, it was turned into a Catholic church in the early 7 th  century and is still used as a church today. You can even go to Mass there on Sundays! Also known as “Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs,” it remains one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome and its architecture is as unbelievable today as it must have been 14 centuries ago. It’s dome is still the single largest, unreinforced concrete dome in the entire world, meaning this major tourist attraction has to make the list! Read on for  6 Surprising Facts About the Pantheon in Rome or see the Pantheon in a whole new light during our Roman Icons tour , which pairs a fully guided Pantheon tour with skip-the-line access to Castel Sant’Angelo.

Pantheon | Photo by mrsjpvan2 (flickr)

by Gina Mussio

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Top 10 Rome Churches: Visit the 10 most beautiful churches in Rome

Top 10 Rome Churches: Visit the 10 most beautiful churches in Rome. Which are the most beautiful churches in Rome? Walking through Rome you will pass many beautiful churches in Rome. Rome has more than 900 churches to offer – too many to visit them all. In this article you will find out which churches in Rome you should definitely not miss visiting.

Rome is known to be the center of the Roman-catholic church. Some of the most well-known churches in Rome are St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon. But you can find small churches and chapels everywhere in Rome, sometimes hidden in small streets and alleys. In Rome, you can find Pope churches, Pilgrim churches, Jesuit churches and many more. Rome offers churches from different periods, all distinguished by their own unique architecture and history.

ROME_St_Peter's_Basilica_Sunset_l

Top 10 Rome Churches: What is important when visiting the churches in Rome?

Churches in Rome are sacred places where people pray and celebrate masses, which is why a strict dress code applies to the churches in Rome . In general shoulders and knees must be covered. This does not only apply to women but also to men. This might be cause problems in summer, since Roman summers are usually very hot. Yet, if you disregard this rule you might be denied access to the churches in Rome. My advice: just have a large scarf or shawl with you to cover shoulders and knees. Hats and caps must also be removed when entering a church in Rome.

Admission to most churches in Rome is free , nevertheless the churches will be happy about a small donation. You can do this by lighting up a candle for which you will have to pay a small amount.

Top 10 Rome Churches: 10 churches in Rome that you should visit

1. rome churches: st. peter’s basilica in rome.

St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome is the largest church in the world and the center of Christianity. The tomb of Peter the Apostle is supposed to be in the necropolis underneath St. Peter’s Basilica. St Peter’s Basilica and St Peter’s Square are a piece of art for which you should spare some time. The dome is very impressive and you can enjoy a great panoramic view over Vatican City and Rome from the top. You should plan about one hour for the visit to St. Peter’s and another hour for the visit to the dome.

ROME_St_Peter's_Basilica_Via-della-Conciliazione_l

Since there are always log waiting lines in front of the security check to St Peter’s Basilica, I advise you to buy the combined ticket for St Peter’s and the dome including an audioguide, which might save you up to one hour waiting.

How to get there, admission & opening hours

  • To get to St. Peter’s Basilica you can take the metro A to the station Ottaviano. The tram 19 stops at Piazza del Risorgimento and the buses 40 and 64 from Termini station, bus 23 with the Transpontina / Conciliazione stop and buses 34, 46, 98, 190F, 881, 916, 982, N5, N15, N20 with the stop Cavalleggeri / San Pietro are also not far away.
  • Admission to St Peter’s Basilica is free . You will need preordered tickets for Papal masses and general audiences. I recommend the fast track tickets to skip the lines at the security check points at the entrance to St Peter’s. Admission to the grottos is free as well. To visit the dome the entry fee is 10 euros to use the elevator and 8 euros if you climb up the stairs (5 euros for school classes). Entry to the treasure chamber is 6 euros and 4 euros for the reduced ticket.
  • During Papal masses and general audiences St. Peter’s, the grottos and the dome are closed.
  • The basilica is open from the 1st of April to the 30th of September from 7 am to 7 pm and from the 1st of October to the 30th of March until 6:30 pm. When it comes to the dome, it is accessible from 8 am to 5 pm in the low season and from 8 am to 6 pm in the high season; the treasury is open from 8 am to 7 pm in summer and from 8 am to 6:15 pm in winter.

2. Top 10 Rome Churches: Santa Maria dell’Anima in Rome

Santa Maria dell’Anima in Rome is a German parish church. It is a meeting place and papal institute. It is usually led by an Austrian rector.

This church is located behind Piazza Navona in Via Santa Maria dell’Anima. It dates back to the 16th century and is decorated in central European style. The nave and the two aisles are the same hight. The large pillars and the eight lateral chapels were erected in gothic style. This impressive facade was created in the Italian Renaissance architecture.

Santa Maria dell Anima Rome

Worth visiting is the church Santa Maria della Pace, just behind the Santa Maria dell’Anime, where you can marvel at a painting by Raphael, the Sibyls. The church is mostly closed, but next to the church is the cloister of the Bramante, which in the 15th century was a famous painter and master builder of the Italian Renaissance. On the first floor is a cafeteria, from where you can see the painting of Raphael very well.

  • The bus stop Zanardelli which is served by the lines 70, 81, 87, 492, 628, C3, N6, N7 and N25 is very close to the church of Santa Maria dell’Anime in Rome.
  • Admission to the church is free.
  • The opening hours of the church change slightly throughout the year but between 9 am and 12.45 pm and the again between 3 pm and 7 pm you will find it most likely open. The church is closed on Wednesday mornings.

3. Rome Churches: The Pantheon in Rome

The Pantheon in Rome is dedicated to the Roman Gods. It is particularly impressive because of its large dome, which has a larger diameter at the base than the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. The dome is open in the center. Seeing the sky through the dome opening is very impressive. What a building! When it rains, the water can exit through drains in the floor inside the pantheon.

ROME_Pantheon_l

As many other traditions, holidays and monuments the Pantheon as well was assimilated by the Catholic Church and turned into a Catholic Church rather than a Roman temple. Its actual name today is Santa Maria ad Martyrs.

  • Many public buses go to the Pantheon, you can take one of the following lines and get off at Argentina: 30, 40, 46, 62, 64, 70, 81, 87, 190F, 492, 628, 016, N5, N6, N7, N15 or N20. Afterwards you will have to walk along Via dei Cestari.
  • The Pantheon is property of the Italian state and hence you do not have to pay entry when visiting. But there are many interesting guided tours available to learn more about the history of the Pantheon.
  • On weekdays the Pantheon in Rome is open from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm, Sundays from 9 am to 6 pm and on holidays that fall on a weekday from 9 am to 1 pm.

4. Top 10 Rome Churches: Sant’Ignazio di Loyola in Rome

Sant’Ignazio di Loyola in Rome , a Jesuit church in baroque style dates back to the 17th century. Look closely at the ceiling fresco. You will see a dome on the ceiling. However, the dome does not exist, but is an optical illusion. It is only painted.

ROME_Sant-Ignazio-di-Loyola-in-Campo-Marzio_Altar_l

The painting in the center of the ceiling, ‘The Glory of Sant’Ignazio’, gives the impression of a second temple on top of the church. On the floor in the center is a mark from where the illusion is best visible.

  • The bus stop Minghetti on Via del Corso is served by the bus lines 62, 63, 83, 85, 160, 492, N4, N5 and N12. Then it’s a short walk to the church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola.
  • Admission to this Roman church is free.
  • During the week the church is open from 7.30 am to 7 pm and on Sunday from 9 am to 7 pm.
  • The next church is once again a Jesuit church, which you best visit at 5.30 p. Why? You will find out in a bit. From Sant’Ignazio take Via di Sant’Ignazio and then turn right onto Via del Piè di Marmo. At the next junction on the left you can see a huge marble foot, which belonged to the statue of an ancient goddess.

5. Rome Churches: Chiesa del Gesù in Rome

Chiesa del Gesù in Rome , the Church of Jesus in English, is the main church of the Jesuits. The church was built in the 16th century and only has one nave. Once again, there are ceiling paintings with special effects in this church. The painting of the Triumph of the Name of Jesus is very well-known, as well as the altar of Ignazio di Loyola.

Chiesa del Gesu Rom inside

It is located to the left of the main altar in a side chapel. The altar of Ignatius of Loyola is a richly decorated altar, built like a theater. Between the columns of the altar is a painting, which is pulled up every day around 5.30 pm with music and special lighting. Behind it appears a gilded statue of the saint. You should not miss this!

  • The church is located between the stops Plebiscito (Piazza Venezia) and Argentina. At the bus stop Plebiscito the bus lines 30, 46, 62, 64, 70, 81, 87, 190F, 492, 628, 016, N5, N6, N7, N15 and N20 stop.
  • Once again, entry is free to Chiesa del Gesù in Rome.
  • The church is open daily from 7 am to 12.30 pm and from 4 pm to 7.45 pm. At 5.30 pm the apparition of Sant’Ignazio with music and lights will take place in the left side chapel.

6. Top 10 Rome Churches: Basilica Sant Pietro in Vincoli in Rome

You will have to walk for about 1.4 km to get from Chiesa del Gesù to the Basilica Sant Pietro in Vincoli . The route passes by Piazza Venezia and over the Fori Imperiali, then left into Via Cavour and up the stairs of the Borgia up to the Basilica.

This basilica was rebuilt several times. The facade of the basilica with the porch of four arches is unimpressive. The interior of the basilica with the Doric columns, numerous paintings and grave sites, however, is beautifully decorated.

Moses by Michelangelo Rome

There is a relic under the altar. It is supposed to be the chains of Peter. On the right side is the empty tomb of Pope Julius II. Michelangelo had worked for 40 years on the tomb and it is today considered one of his greatest works. The statue of Moses is very famous. Due to a translation error of the Hebrew word, Michelangelo gave Moses ‘horns’, when actually he was supposed to be having ‘rays’, as written in the Old Testament. Pope Julius II. did not live to see the completion of the tomb and was therefore buried in the Vatican.

  • The fastest way to get to the Basilica Sant Pietro in Vincoli is by taking the metro line B and to get off at Cavour.
  • This church in Rome can be visited for free as well.
  • The basilica is accessible to visitors daily from 8 am to 12.30 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm.

7. Rome Churches: Basilica St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome

If you have been to the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, take the metro at the station Colosseo to get to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome .

Today’s Basilica St. Paul Outside the Walls is not particularly old since the original church burned down in 1823. It was then rebuilt true to the original. I find this church interesting, because it gives visitors an idea of how churches were built in the early days. The original St. Peter’s had the same shape as the Basilica St. Paul Outside the Walls. The Apostle Paul is supposed to be buried underneath the basilica.

St. Paul Outside the Walls Rome

The layout of the basilica corresponds to a Latin cross. In front of the basilica is a square with the statue of St. Paul framed by four lobbies. The hall of the basilica is divided by columns into five naves. On the side walls  are great mosaics depicting all officially recognized popes from Peter to Francis.

Through the back of the basilica you will get through a passage to a baptistery. In the transept on the right leads to the cloister of the monastery. You have to pay an entrance fee for access. Below you can visit excavations that have come to light in recent years during construction work.

  • You can either get to the Basilica of St. Paul by metro line B at the Station San Paolo or by bus with the lines 23, 769, 792 or N2 at the station Viale San Paolo.
  • The entrance to the basilica is free. You can borrow an audioguide for 5 euros. The audioguide and entrance to the cloister of the monastery, the Pinakothek and the excavations is 8 euros.
  • The opening hours of the basilica are 7 am to 6.30 pm.

8. Top 10 Rome Churches: Santo Stefano Rotondo in Rome

If you are interested in the history and development of Christian churches, you should definitely visit the Santo Stefano Rotondo Church on the Caelius Hill in Rome .

This church is a rotunda from the 5th century and is similar in its architecture to the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The altar is at the center. The rotunda is the central part of the church, on which transverse and longitudinal ships start. In fact, the central part of St. Peter’s is, between the four columns that support the dome, a rotunda as well.

Santo Stefano Rotondo Rome Tabernacle

In the hallway to the right of the entrance is a Baroque tabernacle from the 16th century, which looks quite similar to the central part of St. Peter’s Basilica.

  • Access to Santo Stefano Rotondo in Rome is via bus 81 at the Navicella / Villa Celimontana stop. By foot you can reach the church from the Colosseum via Via Claudia.
  • Here again, you do not have to pay admission for entrance to the church.
  • This church in Rome is open every morning from 10 am to 1 pm, in the afternoon in winter from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm and in summer from 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm.
  • When you get out of the church, you will see an arc to the right of Villa Celimontana. Behind it begins Via di San Paolo della Croce, which leads very picturesquely down to the Circus Maximus.

9. Rome Churches: Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo in Rome

The Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo in Rome is a popular church for weddings. The church tower stands apart from the basilica on the right side of the square. Under the church you can visit the excavations of Roman houses in which the two martyrs John and Paul had lived. The construction of the church dates back to the 5th century. Before that, there were apartments and shops that can be visited under the church.

The nave of the church is supported by external arches that lead across the ancient road Clivo di Scauro. They were drafted in the 13th century. These bows are a wonderful photo opportunity. The interior of the basilica is also very impressive.

  • Bus 81 stops at Navicella / Villa Celimontana station, then passes through the Dolabella Arch and Via di San Paolo della Croce. By foot you can reach the church from the Colosseum via Via Claudia and from the Circus Maximus via the Salita di San Gregorio.
  • Admission is free. Entrance to the Roman houses under the Basilica is 8 euros. Young people from 12 to 18 years and persons with disabilities pay 6 euros.
  • The basilica is open daily from 8.30 am to 12 pm and from 3.30 pm to 6 pm. The sexton also opens the gate, which is located to the left of the church tower. From there you can look down into supply rooms of the Coliseum. The Roman houses under the basilica are open from 10 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are closed.

10. Rome Churches: Basilica di Santa Sabina in Rome

During your stay in Rome you should definitely visit the Aventine Hill. It is one of the seven hills on which Rome has been built. You will have a great panoramic view from there and can also find two ancient basilicas. The Basilica di Santa Sabina in Rome was built in the 5th century and is a popular church for weddings. It was built on the tomb of Saint Sabine. Right next to the basilica is the orange garden, a popular view-point in Rome. next to the entry of the orange garden is a fountain.

Santa Sabina Aventine Rome wedding

You can climb up to the Aventine Hill  from Circus Maximus through the rose garden for example. The orientation is simple: you just keep going up and at the highest point you will find the basilica.

This basilica was built on the residence of the matron Sabine, from which you can still see a column in granite on the right wall. The 24 pillars supporting the nave are from the nearby temple of Queen Juno. On the left behind the entrance you can see a black stone on a winding column. Its name is the Devil’s Stone and legend has it that the devil threw it against Domenico Guzmán, the founder of the Dominican Order.

  • All hop-on hop-off buses have a stop at Circus Maximus. Public buses of the lines  81, 85, 87, 118, 628 and C3 also stop nearby. You can also take metro line B and get off at Circo Massimo.
  • Admission to the basilica is free.
  • The basilica di Santa Sabina in Rome is open daily from 8.15 am to 12.30 pm and from 3.30 pm to 6 pm.

Right next to the Basilica di Santa Sabina is the Basilica of Saint Alexis which was built in the 4th century.

You should definitely go on to the mysterious square of the Order of Malta. There you will find a keyhole in a gate through which you can look directly at the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Behind it is the priory of the Order of Malta. The Order is a sovereign state. However, its territory is confined to the Priory and to a building in Via dei Condotti near the Spanish Steps , where the headquarters are located.

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The FRUGAL TOURIST

Free Self-Guided Walking Tour: The Best Art in Rome’s Top 10 Churches

by The Frugal Tourist | Feb 4, 2021 | Europe , Italy , Walking Tour | 6 comments

FREE-WALKING-TOUR_-ULTIMATE-GUIDE-TO-THE-BEST-ART-IN-ROMES-TOP-10-CHURCHES

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This blog post is the companion self-guided walking tour guide to my article on Rome’s Ultimate Top 10 Best Churches to Visit for Amazing Art .

Rome is a city known for its stunning churches and impressive art.

If you’re looking to take in some of the best art in Rome, then look no further!

In this blog post, we will provide a tour of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring artwork found in the city’s churches.

From Renaissance paintings to Baroque sculptures, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES

I must admit, I am not at all religious.

However, the main reason behind curating this tour is that Rome’s churches house remarkable treasures that often go unnoticed by the average tourist.

Moreover, these sanctuaries are conveniently located near iconic Roman attractions like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.

Thus, it was only fitting that this walking tour would include stops at these must-see sites, adding even more excitement to an already action-packed itinerary filled with unforgettable highlights.

Top Ten Churches in Rome to Find Amazing Art

Before we start this tour, let’s recap my top 10 best churches in Rome and why they are on this list.

  • St. Peter’s Basilica – the grandest church on the planet with a jaw-dropping Michelangelo sculpture and a climbable Michelangelo dome
  • San Luigi De Francesci – three of Caravaggio’s breathtaking stellar masterpieces reside here
  • Basilica Di San Clemente – descend three layers deep into Ancient Rome
  • Santa Maria Del Popolo – two Caravaggios , a Raphael chapel, and Bernini sculptures near Rome’s most romantic terrace
  • Santa Maria Maggiore and Santa Prassede – magnificent mosaics everywhere
  • Santa Maria Sopra Minerva – one of the few Gothic churches in Rome, a splendid Michelangelo sculpture lives here
  • San Pietro in Vincoli – another sublime Michelangelo sculpture and the chains used on St. Peter are here
  • San Giovanni In Laterano and the Holy Stairs – one of Rome’s most important churches and the stairs where Jesus walked on before he was crucified
  • Santa Maria in Trastevere – one of Rome’s oldest churches in an enthralling neighborhood
  • Santa Maria Della Vittoria – Bernini ‘s ultimate masterpiece resides here

Free Walking Tour of Rome’s 10 Best Churches to Find Art Masterpieces

I divided this walking tour of Rome’s best art in churches into three sections based on location.

It can be completed in about 4-5 hours on a whirlwind visit.

However, that means you would have to squander your ability to linger.

I recommend making this a whole-day (or two) excursion.

It will allow you to immerse yourself in the astounding beauty of each church at your own pace.

Rest assured, this will be an unforgettable day that will leave a lasting impression.

Summary of the Free Walking Tour Itinerary

START: All roads lead to Rome. Let’s start our tour by taking the metro to the Ottaviano station, the nearest station to St. Peter’s Basilica .

Download the Free Map of this Walking Tour

Open this map on your mobile phone, as you need to access it for this tour. Feel free to share it as well.

Need to Know Before This Tour

a. Make sure to check each church’s opening hours and dress modestly.

b. All churches are free of charge except for the dome climb up St. Peter’s and the descent in San Clemente.

c. Bring some euros with you as you may need them to illuminate some of the art in this walk.

d. You would need some change for the metro and the express bus.

e. Metro and bus have the same tickets. You have to purchase your ticket before boarding. Tickets are available in kiosks, bars, and some vending machines. I typically purchase ten tickets at a time to save time.

f. Do not forget to validate your ticket when you take public transportation (copy what locals do or ask where to validate your ticket).

g. If you have the ROMA pass, there is no need to validate. Just be prepared to show it to the conductor when asked. Do not forget to write the date on your pass.

h. Don’t carry a big backpack. You may need to check that in upon entering St. Peters.

i. Protect your valuables as pickpockets – typically dressed like tourists – are at tourist spots and public transportation.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: St. Peter’s Basilica

Part 1: St. Peter’s Basilica to Maria Del Popolo

A. st. peter’s basilica, start: ottaviano metro station, then walk to st. peter’s basilica.

I can not think of any other church to start this tour except at the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica (#1 on the list), the planet’s most glorious church.

Michelangelo’s Pieta and Bernini’s canopy can be found here.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES

This is the grandest church on the planet. Its dome, designed by Michelangelo , is a prominent feature in Rome’s skyline.

This was the purported site of Peter’s martyrdom and crucifixion. His tomb is allegedly situated below the altar of the basilica.

Incredibly popular, particularly during holidays and summer, visiting here requires sacrifice and patience, so arriving as early as possible is recommended.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES

Alternatively, timing your visit a few hours before closing time can prove rewarding, particularly when you plan to climb up to the dome.

It is also possible to schedule your visit to see the Pope. If he is in town, he will give out blessings during an event called “the Papal Audience,” held every Wednesday.

Highlights:

  • Michelangelo’s Pieta is located behind bullet-proof glass to avoid attacks similar to what happened in 1972 when a man broke Mary’s nose and arm.
  • Michelangelo’s Dome 
  • Bernini’s Canopy
  • Pope John Paul II’s tomb in the Vatican Grottoes
  • Crucified upside down because he did not think he deserved to die the same way as Jesus Christ, St. Peter died here, and his tomb is supposedly located underground in the Vatican Necropolis. It can only be accessed via a private tour.
  • Being the largest church in Christendom, look for lines on the floor to show where other churches would fit if placed in St. Peter’s.
  • You can also combine your visit to the Basilica with the Vatican Museum.

B. Castel & Ponte Sant’ Angelo

Head towards the Tiber River for Castel Sant’ Angelo .

Take a leisurely stroll across the picturesque pedestrian bridge of Ponte San Angelo.

And when you reach the other side of the Tiber, don’t forget to look back and be in awe of one of Rome’s most phenomenal spots to capture – very Instagrammable!

Castel Sant’ Angelo

This massively imposing castle was formerly the resting place of the Roman emperors.

All the emperors from Hadrian to Caracalla were buried here. It still contains their ashes.

It was also used as a fortress and prison in the Middle Ages.

Eventually, it became a hiding place for the popes threatened by invaders.

There used to be an elevated passageway that connected the Vatican to this gargantuan structure that the popes used to escape the ire of outsiders.

You can choose to visit this site for a fee, but I would skip it if you do not have the luxury of extra time.

As mentioned above, the best view is just on the other side of the Tiber River, on the opposite end of Ponte Sant’Angelo , and can be enjoyed for FREE.

Ponte Sant’ Angelo

Emperor Hadrian built this scenic bridge to connect Ancient Rome to his tomb.

It is also called the Bridge of Angels because of the marvelous angel sculptures that flank the bridge.

Lined by sumptuous Bernini statues depicting the passion of Christ, this pathway was the only one that connected downtown Rome with St. Peter’s during the Middle Ages and thus widely used by pilgrims from all over.

A few atmospheric streets connect Ponte Sant’ Angelo to our next stop, the dazzling Piazza Navona . Refer to the map and pick any pedestrianized alleyway to get to our next destination.

C. Piazza Navona & Basilica of Sant’ Agostino

Before proceeding to our next church, San Luigi de Francesi (#2), make sure to make a detour in the stunning Piazza Navona and be mesmerized by the spectacular Four Rivers Fountain .

This fountain occupies the center stage of this former racetrack (Stadium of Domitian) converted into one of the city’s most celebrated piazzas. A Roman icon and a definite must-see stop.

There are two other fountains nearby – The Fountain of the Moor, and the Fountain of Neptune.

If you’re looking to add a little culture to your Rome bucket list, then do not leave Rome without taking a glimpse of this gorgeous Baroque square.

MUST-SEE: You can now enter the ruins of the Stadium of Domitian, which is located about 4.50 meters below street level. It was built in 86 AD and could hold up to 30,000 spectators. The entrance is on the northern end of the Piazza.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: Four Rivers Fountain, Piazza Navona

Worth The Detour: Basilica of St. Augustine in Campo Marzio

Before heading out to our next church, feel free to make a detour at the Basilica of St. Augustine in Campo Marzio , located to the north of Piazza Navona.

The church’s location is the orange star in the downloadable Google maps included in this post.

In this basilica, you get an opportunity to see a Caravaggio painting that was considered scandalous by his peers.

The Pilgrim’s Madonna or Madonna of Loreto depicts a humble and demure Mary, casually leaning against a door while holding her naked child, before two kneeling pilgrims.

D. San Luigi De Francesi

Our next striking church is just a 2-3 minute walk away.

Let’s head out to one of my personal favorites and number 2 on my list — San Luigi de Francesi — the national church of France in Rome.

As expected, French emblems are scattered everywhere in this church. However, the highlight of this church is not French.

Make a beeline for the Contarelli Chapel , located on the far left chapel near the altar.

Prepare to be floored by three earth-shattering paintings from Caravaggio for free in this church.

You might need a Euro or two to activate the lights if you want to examine the intricate details of his masterpieces.

  • Caravaggio’s Calling of Saint Matthew (left wall) – considered to be his ultimate masterpiece
  • Caravaggio’s Inspiration of Saint Matthew (center)
  • Caravaggio’s Martyrdom of Saint Matthew (right wall)
  • An opportunity to immerse in Caravaggio’s haunting style called “chiaroscuro” (the use of strong contrasts of light and shade).

E. The Pantheon

If you have not visited the Pantheon yet, take advantage of this opportunity to be blown away by Ancient Rome’s most-preserved archaelological site.

Historically speaking, the Pantheon is a church.

It was initially built as a Roman (pagan) church that eventually got converted into a Catholic Church.

Masses still occur here every Saturday at 5 PM and Sunday at 10 AM.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: The Pantheon

Don’t forget to look up and marvel at that gravity-defying unsupported dome!

It is still the current record-holder of the most enormous unsupported concrete dome in the world and has been for centuries.

I have never skipped a visit here every time I’m in Rome. It never fails to make my jaw drop.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: The Pantheon

F. Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Just behind the Pantheon is Santa Maria Sopra Minerva (#6 on the list).

In this church, you get an opportunity to see one of Rome’s few Gothic churches and be mesmerized by a stellar Michelangelo sculpture.

  • Rome’s only Gothic church. Check out the arched vaulted ceiling
  • Michelangelo’s Statue of Christ “Statua Del Redentore”
  • Bernini’s famous elephant statue in the piazza facing the church
  • The tomb of St. Catherine of Siena, Italy’s primary patron saint

G. Trevi Fountain

The next stop is Rome’s most famous body of water – the Trevi Fountain .

Gorgeously constructed by architect Nicola Salvi , this Baroque showstopper features a herculean sculpture in the center called “Ocean” surrounded by tritons, winged horses, and water.

Don’t forget to turn around with your back facing the fountain and toss a coin to guarantee your next visit again to the Eternal City.

It has worked for me every single time.

Other myths have surfaced in recent years. Throw two coins for romance, and three bring forth marriage.

Not throwing a coin means you are divorced and currently paying alimony, and thus no penny to spare.

Over a million dollars is collected from the fountain floor every year, and the proceeds are donated to a Catholic charity to help the poor people of Rome.

It is excellent every time of the day, but the atmosphere is more exhilarating at night.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: Trevi Fountain

H. The Spanish Steps

From Trevi Fountain, follow the map and navigate Central Rome’s busy streets to get to another quintessential Roman attraction – the Spanish Steps.

Climb the stairs and relish the views of Rome from this splendid vantage point.

On top of the stairs is another church – Triniti Dei Monti .

Sadly, this church did not make the Top 10 but feel free to take a peek inside.

I. Pincio Terrace

From the top of the Spanish Steps, follow the directions to Pincio Terrace for one of Rome’s most magnificent and romantic viewpoints.

It is particularly unforgettable during sunsets.

Pincio Terrace is also within walking distance from the spectacular Borghese Gallery (advanced reservation required).

J. Santa Maria Del Popolo

Descend the stairs of Pincio Terrace for Maria Del Popolo (#4 on the list), located to the right of the stairs.

Be ready to be blown away by some staggering Bernini sculptures and two of Caravaggio’s most astounding creations.

You would need another Euro or two to activate the lights to illuminate the paintings.

  • Caravaggio’s Crucifixion of Saint Peter
  • Caravaggio’s Conversion of Saint Paul on the Road to Damascus
  • Bernini sculptures
  • Raphael’s Chigi Chapel
  • Bring a euro or two to illuminate the Cerasi chapel where the Caravaggio paintings are located.

Piazza Del Popolo

Linger around Piazza Del Popolo with its signature Egyptian obelisk before moving on to Part 2 of this tour.

This square was the main northern entrance to Ancient Rome.

Everyone had to enter the city through this historic square back in the olden days, and this historic piazza was usually the first site that welcomed pilgrims when they visited the Eternal City.

Today, it’s still a hectic gathering spot for locals and tourists alike – perfect for people-watching!

CONNECT PART 1 TO PART 2: Maria Del Popolo is next to the Flaminio train station. Take the Metro to the San Giovanni Metro stop to continue this tour.

Part 2: san giovanni in laterano to the churches near termini station, a. san giovanni in laterano.

Start the second part of this walk in one of Rome’s most important churches, San Giovanni In Laterano (#8).

The official church of the Pope and the oldest basilica in the city and the Western World.

  • Remnants of Giotto frescoes on the first pillar to the right
  • Bronze door taken from the Curia at the Roman Forum
  • The door on the far right is the “Holy Door” that is only opened during Jubilee years
  • 15th-century mosaics on the floor and mosaics on the apse
  • The Gothic Tabernacle supposedly contains the heads of St. Peter and St. Paul
  • Altar of the Holy Sacrament that contains the remains of the cedar table used by Christ during the Last Supper

After relishing the glorious art in this essential pilgrim site and paying respects to St. Peter’s and Paul’s heads, proceed to our next stop.

B. The Holy Stairs or Scala Sancta

Across the street from San Giovanni is the Holy Stairs, a required stop for Christian pilgrims.

Kneel and climb up the same stairs where Jesus walked in Pilate’s temple when he was sentenced to death.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: Scala Santa

C. Basilica Di San Clemente

A short walk away is brilliant Basilica Di San Clemente (#3 on the list).

Descending multiple layers down Rome is the unquestionable highlight of your visit here.

A veritable archaeological odyssey!

Be prepared to be stunned by layer after layer of evidence of Rome’s antiquity by physically descending back in time.

  • The opportunity to go down layers below Ancient Rome
  • 12th-century mosaic in the apse of Christ evolving into a tree
  • 15th-century frescoes by Masolino in the Cappella di Santa Caterina

D. Colosseo

Take a break from all the churches and head out to the Colosseo, just a few minutes walk away from San Clemente.

From here, you have the option to tackle Ancient Rome sites like the Roman Forum and Trajan Markets if you are already churched out.

Otherwise, let’s continue our tour and save Colosseo (and Ancient Rome) for another day.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES

E. San Pietro in Vincoli

Get your walking shoes ready because it will be quite a hike to reach San Pietro in Vincoli (#7 on the list).

Here, you will get a chance to see another resplendent Michelangelo sculpture and the chains that bound St. Peter when he was imprisoned for preaching the gospel.

A required stop for even the most casual Michelangelo fan, this church contains one of the artist’s most spellbinding sculptures – the statue of Moses with its famous horns.

Even Michelangelo considers this as one of his greatest creations.

  • Michelangelo’s sculpture of Moses (one of the world’s most famous statues)
  • Skeleton tombs on the left side of the church
  • The chains used on St. Peter during one of his imprisonments (located under the altar)

If you are too tired to walk to our next stop, San Pietro in Vincoli is next to Cavour Metro Station . Take the train to Termini Station from here to get to our next church, a mosaic tour de force.

F. Santa Maria Maggiore

Whether on foot or by train, our next church will surely take your exhaustion away, especially if you like mosaics.

Santa Maria Maggiore (#5 on the list) boasts captivating mosaics all around.

You can pay tribute to Bernini’s tomb here too.

Located in one of the city’s famous seven hills – Esquiline hill , this church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and also boasts Rome’s tallest campanile (bell tower).

It is also one of Rome’s oldest churches.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES: Santa Maria Maggiore

Overflowing with art, the showstopper here is the staggering 5th-century mosaics in the church’s triumphal arch hovering above the main altar.

Equally magnificent mosaics featuring Old Testament tales accentuate the nave.

If you are in town on August 5th , this church is host to a special event commemorating a mysterious snowfall that occurred in the summer of 358 at the exact spot where this church is built.

It is aptly called the Miracle of Snow and is currently celebrated with a shower of white petals coming out of the church’s ceiling.

  • Awe-inspiring mosaics in the triumphal arch
  • Spectacular mosaics encircling the nave
  • Bernini’s final resting place

G. Santa Prassade

If you are not mosaic out yet, a few meters away from Santa Maria Maggiore is this tiny church.

The diminutive Santa Prassade amazingly packs a heavy punch and is guaranteed to cause even the most discerning mosaic lover drool.

Incredibly well-preserved mosaics intricately surround this gorgeous sanctuary that almost rivals the Byzantine churches in Ravenna, Italy, or Istanbul, Turkey.

If you have the extra time and the slightest fascination with mosaics, this is a brilliant addition to your church itinerary in Rome.

H. Santa Maria Dela Vittoria

Walk for about 15 minutes to reach Bernini’s most popular creation, St. Teresa in Ecstasy.

She has her residency in Santa Maria Dela Vittoria (#10 on the list).

Upon entering the church, head straight to this euphoric sculpture located to the left of the altar.

Bernini’s genius made the eroticism of this masterpiece palpably come to life.

I. Santa Maria Degli Angeli

After relishing Bernini’s outstanding sculpture, walk towards the main train station in Termini and peek inside a bonus church – Santa Maria Degli Angeli.

Formerly one of the biggest Roman baths in the city, it used to clean about 3,000 Romans a day at its peak.

Head over to the main train station of Termini. Right in front of the station, you’ll find the bus terminals.

Look out for the express bus “H” that’ll take you to our final stop, Santa Maria In Trastevere – a beautiful church tucked away in one of Rome’s coolest neighborhoods.

CONNECT PART 2 WITH PART 3 : Take Express Bus “H” from Termini to Trastevere to continue this tour. Buy your bus ticket before boarding the bus. Do not forget to validate the ticket; otherwise, you might get fined.

Part 3: santa maria in trastevere.

Our next church is situated in Rome’s most authentic district with meandering alleyways and colorful neighborhoods.

Make a beeline for Santa Maria in Trastevere (#9 on my list) located in their central piazza, a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

WALKING TOUR: ROME'S ULTIMATE 10 BEST CHURCHES

  • 12th-century mosaics
  • Colorful Frescoes
  • Asymmetrical Columns
  • The Romanesque brick bell tower
  • Piazza with the octagonal fountain right outside

After admiring the church’s breathtaking mosaics, you can grab a bite at a nearby restaurant for dinner.

If you’re up for it, you can also hike up Gianicolo Hill if you’ve got the time and energy.

Or, just chill and people-watch at the piazza in front of the church while you give yourself a pat on the back for acing it!

Congratulations, You’ve Done It!

You had just visited at least TEN of ROME’s most iconic churches and some of its most epic sites.

Let’s review the number of masterpieces you just saw:

Do you agree with the list? What will you change? What church did I forget?

Travel Tips to Save Time & Money in Rome

Rome travel tip: protect yourself.

free churches to visit in rome

If you think you can outsmart the pickpockets, think again.

They are incredibly street-savvy, unabashedly brazen, and well-equipped with pickpocketing tactics that will make you wonder “How did they manage to steal that from me?”.

I guarantee that you might even witness pickpocketers in action – they are that numerous, confident, and bold.

Protect Your Valuables

  • Wear a money bag
  • Put your backpack in front of you
  • Don’t carry a lot of cash – use a no-foreign transaction fee credit card or use a no-fee debit card like Charles Schwab.
  • Scan your passport and important documents and email it to yourself
  • Have photocopies of your passport and important documents
  • Get a TSA-lock for your backpack
  • Use the safety deposit box in your hotel
  • Carry your adapter instead of borrowing from your hotel or charging at the front desk

I’d like to share these well-written articles about petty crimes directed at tourists prepared by the European Travel expert himself, Rick Steves.

  • Purchase Travel Insurance for medical coverage, trip interruption, etc.

free churches to visit in rome

Walking Tour Essentials

Click any of the images below for product information.

I also suggest borrowing guidebooks specific to Rome or Italy from your public library .

It will be essential for planning, navigation, and learning about the multi-layered history of the city.

You can also order from Amazon.com . Click any of the images to read more about the product.

free churches to visit in rome

Where to Stay in Rome?

My accommodation choices usually revolve around hotels where I can use free nights by using points. I have consistently redeemed at hotels around the central train station of Termini.

This location is affordable, very central especially with public transport, and has tons of delicious restaurant options.

Termini also has inexpensive buses that jet tourists to the airport and back. I do not recall paying more than 5 Euros to get to the airport.

If I am not redeeming points, I go to booking.com to search for reasonably-priced deals.

I also use hostelworld.com every so often, particularly when hotels are insanely expensive or when I’m traveling solo. This allows me to meet other travelers and join cheap tours that are frequently offered by these budget-friendly accommodations.

Fly to Rome Using Credit Card Points

All of my trips over the past decade had been ALMOST FREE via travel miles.

I’ve visited a total of 85 countries using miles and points. I accumulate these points from credit card rewards and bonuses.

Some of these credit cards are featured here .

Please let me know what you think of this tour in the comments section. Feel free to connect with me anytime. Would love to hear from you.

Related posts:

Jordin

WOW! This is an amazingly massive list of tours! Pinning for later, as I hope to make it to Rome one day!

The Frugal Tourist

Hi Jordin! Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world and I am sure you will love your visit there as well. Breaks my heart how it is currently being battered by COVID19 but I’m sure it’ll be back to its original glory anytime soon! Thanks for reading!

Carey

Love all the pictures and information about the churches. Hopefully I can find an online tour to see more! Great read!

Thank you, Carey! There are a lot of online tours, but I recommend downloading the free Rick Steves Europe app so you can access his incredible walking tours. He’s my inspiration for creating this tour. Safe travels 🙂

Karen

Wow, this is stunning. Thank you for sharing this. This tour package is great because if you’re in a large tour group, you will definitely miss things. I can’t wait to visit this beautiful city.

Rome is incredible and the art is out of this world. You will surely have an unforgettable experience!

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Rome Actually

The 15 Most Beautiful and Least-Visited Churches in Rome

One of the most popular churches in Rome is St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican . Hardly anyone coming to Rome for the first time skips this gorgeous, artwork-packed church. Yet, this is not the only religious masterpiece worth your time. Discover here some pretty stunning and least-visited churches in Rome to delve deeper into the city’s culture, history and faith.

Some lesser-known Catholic worship places in Rome worth your visit are in the city center, while others lay a bit far but still easy to reach with public transport. Go off the beaten path and unearth some of the most unexpected historical relics and precious artwork.

Table of Contents

Gorgeous and least-visited churches in Rome beyond St. Peter’s Basilica

St. paul outside the walls basilica in rome (san paolo fuori le mura).

Image: Saint Paul outside the walls basilica one of the least-visited churches in Rome

Slightly far from the tourist path, St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of the four patriarchal basilicas in Rome and a must-see. Located between Ostiense and Garbatella neighborhoods, this is one of the four patriarchal basilicas in Rome and the second largest after St. Peter’s.

Emperor Constantine ordered the building of the basilica where St Paul was buried not far from where his martyrdom happened. In 324 its doors were officially opened and it contained the tomb of the saint.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed article for our experience visiting St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica .

Basilica of The Holy Cross in Jerusalem (Santa Croce in Gerusalemme)

Image: Holy Cross in Jerusalem basilica one of the least-visited churches of Rome

This beautiful church is in the Esquilino neighborhood between San Giovanni in Laterano Basilica and Porta Maggiore. Although hardly included in most guided tours , it’s a very important worship place for the Catholic religion.

One of the relics preserved in Santa Croce di Gerusalemme church is, in fact, a piece of Christ’s cross found by Empress Helen mother of Emperor Constantine, in Mount Calvary. This makes it an important pilgrimage site in Rome and one of the seven churches that back in the day pilgrims used to reach on foot.

READ MORE: See our article to read more about Santa Croce in Gerusalemme church .

Chiesa di Santa Prisca

Image: Santa Prisca one of the least-visited churches in Rome

One of the least-visited churches in Rome is the small and charming one devoted to Santa Prisca, the young Roman martyred in the 3rd century. The church is located in the history-rich Aventine Hill , near the Roseto Comunale (Rome’s rose garden), and was built between the 4th and 5th centuries.

The interior of the church is divided into three naves and features 14 pillars crowned with Corinthian capitals. Throughout the centuries, the church underwent several changes and renovations, including one in the 15th century after a fire heavily damaged the front part. The current facade was built in the 16th century by architect Lombardi who was also in charge of the main altar. Apart from the Christian art and history, this Roman church is worth visiting also for the Mithra temple located underground, where the Persian god is portraying killing the bull, a symbol of evil.

San Pietro in Vincoli

Image: Michelangelo's Moses at San Pietro in Vincoli Basilica one of the lesser-known churches in Rome

Located in the Monti neighborhood, this San Pietro in Vincoli church is pretty central. Yet, you won’t find it crowded. Probably because getting there usually requires climbing a steep staircase or maybe because it’s a little hidden in its square. Whatever the reason, it’s a pity.

Home to the important relics of the chains that kept Saint Peter captive in Jerusalem first and then in Rome, this is one of the least-visited churches in Rome even though a real must-see also for the famous Moses sculpture by Michelangelo.

READ MORE: See our article to know more about San Pietro in Vincoli church and why it’s worth a visit.

San Giorgio in Velabro

Another one of the churches to visit in Rome is San Giorgio in Velabro.

Likely built in the 6th century, San Giorgio Al Velabro was completely renovated in 682 under Pope Leo II. It was named after the Latin word “Velabrum”, the river-close marshland where according to the myth, Faustolo found the twins Romolo and Remo.

The Romanesque-style bell tower and the colonnade are an addition dating back to the 13th century. The Greek Pope Zachary brought to Rome the head of the martyr St. George from Turkey and now the main relic of this church is the tomb of St. George. The layout of the church is irregular due to the many stages of renovation and a double row of marble pillars divides it in three naves.

In 1993 this Rome church was almost fully destroyed by a car bomb attack by Mafia criminals, but three years of excellent renovation work brought it back to its original splendor.

Sacro Cuore del Suffragio Church

Image: Sacro Cuore del Suffragio church in Rome

One of the few examples of sacred Gothic architecture in the city, Sacro Cuore del Suffragio is also one of the least-visited churches in Rome that I think it’s a pity to miss. Located in the Prati area along the Tiber River, it was built in 1890 by Italian architect Giuseppe Gualandi.

Leaning directly on a traffic road, the facade of the church is protected by a high iron gate. In a proper Gothic style, it shows finely decorated spires. In the middle of the main body of the facade is a huge rose window. Inside, you can visit the Museum of the Souls of the Purgatory devoted to the visible testimony of the souls who tried to get in touch with the clerics.

Santa Prassede Basilica in Rome

Image: santa Prassede basilica, one of the least-visited churches in Rome

One of the best churches in Rome that you can’t miss is Santa Prassede Basilica in the Esquilino neighborhood. I absolutely loved this church. It’s one of the best places in Rome to see religious mosaics .

The Basilica is named after St. Prassede, sister of St. Pudenziana (church below). According to the myth, the two sisters, daughters of Roman senator Pudente, were killed because they used to give a proper burial to the Christian martyrs in the land of their father.

This church is close to the more well-known Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica and it’s also decorated with wonderful mosaics.

READ MORE: First time in the Eternal City? See what are the places you can’t miss in Rome .

Santa Pudenziana Basilica

Image: Santa Pudenziana basilica in rome

One of Rome’s oldest Christian churches, also Santa Pudenziana Basilica is located in the Esquilino neighborhood not far from Santa Maria Maggiore.

This beautiful Basilica is one of the lesser-known churches in Rome, even though it hosts one of the oldest and most stunning religious mosaics in the city. The church was built around 380 AD on the site of what seems to be the residence of Roman Senator Pudente, who was converted to Christianity together with his two daughters Prassede and Pudenziana by the Apostle Peter. St. Peter, a friend of Senator Pudente, stayed in his house for some seven years.

From the garden of the church, it’s possible to access the undergrounds where diggings have resumed the ruins of a two-floor insula , block of flats in ancient Rome, and a thermal space.

READ MORE: Check out our guide to the best tours of Rome .

Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura Basilica and Complex

Image: Sant'Agnese fuori le mura basilica one of the least-visited churches in rome

Apart from being one of the least-visited churches in Rome, Sant’Agnese Fuori le Mura is one of the most fascinating hidden gems I have recently discovered. It’s called “fuori le mura” because it stands outside the Aurelian Walls, but it’s very easy to reach with public transport. Located in the elegant Trieste/Nomentano neighborhood, it’s one of those little-known Roman churches that would add tremendous value to your trip.

Apart from the current Basilica, built in the 7th century and renovated several times throughout the centuries, this incredible complex includes also the ruins of a covered cemetery built by Costanza, daughter of Constantine the Great, in the 4th century near Saint Agnes’ resting place that went down in history with the name of Constantinian Basilica, the stunning and moisac-covered funerary Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, and the catacombs where initially the young martyr was buried in the 3rd century.

Where: Via Nomentana 349. Get there by metro (Sant’Agnese Annibaliano) or bus (66, 82, 544)

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica

Even though located not far from the Pantheon, in Piazza della Minerva, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica, home to the remains of St. Catherine of Siena and the Italian painter Beato Angelico , remains one of the least-visited churches in Rome, especially if compared to other nearby Catholic temples.

The basilica was built on the site of three temples devoted to Isis, Minerva and Serapis. Already in the 8th century next to the basilica was a smaller church that Pope Zachary gave to the Basilian nuns who escaped from the persecutions in the Orient.

The architectural style is Gothic, one of the few in Rome. The construction started in 1280 and lasted several centuries with several changes and additions. The whole work ended in 1725.

The only Gothic medieval church in Rome, it’s worth visiting at least for the great wealth of artwork displayed in its chapels by masters of the likes of Michelangelo, Bernini , Filippino Lippi, Antoniazzo Romano, Maderno, Barocci e Melozzo da Forlì.

San Nicola in Carcere Basilica

San Nicola in Carcere Basilica lies on the site of three temples of the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, of Janus, of Spes (Hope) and Juno Sospita, which in the Middle Ages were used as a prison. In imperial Rome, the square where today is the church was known as Forum Holitorium, the place for the market of legumes and vegetables.

One of the least-visited churches in Rome, San Nicola in Carcere was built before the 11th century upon the commission of Pope Paschal II and went through several renovations in 1599, 1865 and 1932. Today we can spot the ruins of the three ancient temples in the undergrounds, embedded in the external walls and the same staircase to enter the Basilica, originally the altar of the temple of Juno Sospita.

Santi Cosma and Damiano Church

Image: Santi Cosma e Damiano basilica in rome

Very close to the Colosseum Santi Cosma and Damiano is also one of the lesser-visited churches in Rome. Showing beautiful mosaics, the church dates back to the 6th century and lies on the site of one of the libraries of the Temple of Peace and Temple of Romulus.

Amalasuntha, the youngest daughter of the Ostrogoth king Theoderic the Great, donated the land to Pope Felix IV in order to build there a Catholic church. The Pope devoted the new worship place to the Saints Cosma and Damiano, the two Roman doctors twin brothers martyred in 303 under Emperor Diocletian.

You can access the church from Via dei Fori Imperiali, through a long corridor decorated with beautiful frescoes. Inside is a stunning painted and golden ceiling, the altar embellished by the painting of the Holy Mary with the Baby and the apse with wonderful mosaics.

Santa Maria della Pace Church

Located between Piazza Navona and the Tiber, Santa Maria della Pace Church lies on the site of the former “St. Andrea de Acquarenariis”, a place where in ancient times the water sellers used to clean the water of the river from the mud.

According to the myth, a drunk soldier hit the painting of the Virgin Mary with a stone and the image started bleeding. Pope Sixtus IV visited the place himself promising to take care of the crumbling church.

Architect Pietro da Cortona added the beautiful round convex facade in 1656 commissioned by Alexander VII Chigi, while the dome was added in 1524. The entrance of the church is through a 15th-century gate and the interior counts only one nave and the beautiful chapel devoted to the Chigi family.

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica

Image of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica is an extremely fascinating building for so many reasons but yet another of the least-visited churches in Rome. First of all its tragic history as it’s the house as well as the martyrdom place of the patroness of musicians St. Cecilia.

But it’s absolutely worth visiting also for all the areas you will see inside. In fact, there isn’t only the main, more modern church to view here. After you admire the decorations of colorful marble and the sculpture representing the tomb of St. Cecilia, don’t miss the amazing Byzantine-style crypt and the archaeological site underneath to discover more of underground Rome .

There are plenty of things to do in Trastevere , but I totally recommend you take some time to stop here, too. You won’t regret it.

Basilica dei Santi Bonifacio e Alessio

Image: Basilica of the Saints Bonifacio and Alessio one of the least-visited churches of Rome

The Basilica of the Saints Bonifacio and Alessio is also located in the Aventine Hill that has always been an area of Rome extremely rich in spirituality, from pagan times a tradition that was kept also by the Christian Popes. And just like most churches in the Aventine, this one is also very ancient, built between the 3rd and the 4th centuries initially in name of San Bonifacio to whom was added Sant’Alessio in 986.

Some of the most important renovations of this little-known Roman church took place in 1217, when the relics of the two saints were placed under the main altar, and in the occasion of the Jubilee of the year 1750 that brought about the current look. Among the earlier features, we can see the 16th-century facade, the 13th-century bell tower, and the beautiful cloister from where visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

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19 Top-Rated Churches in Rome

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Oct 21, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The churches were, for many centuries, the goal of the majority of Rome's visitors. The faithful from all over Europe made the long and arduous journey to Rome to worship at seven particular sites that were designated as pilgrimage churches.

These included the four patriarchal basilicas (San Giovanni in Laterano, San Pietro in Vaticano, San Paolo Fuori le Mura, and Santa Maria Maggiore), as well as three others: Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura, and San Sebastiano.

Today's tourists still include pilgrims, but far more visit Rome's churches as attractions, to admire their architecture and the art treasures they hold. In them, you'll find works by some of the greatest masters – Michelangelo; Raphael; Bernini; Caravaggio; Sansovino; Filippo Lippi; and many more unnamed masters of mosaic art, fresco painting, and stonework from medieval and earlier eras.

Learn more about these magnificent places of worship with our list of the top churches in Rome.

1. Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano (St. Peter's Basilica)

2. basilica di santa maria maggiore, 3. san giovanni in laterano (st. john lateran), 4. santa maria del popolo, 5. pantheon (basilica of st. mary and the martyrs), 6. santa maria in trastevere, 7. santa cecilia in trastevere, 8. basilica di santa croce in gerusalemme, 9. santa maria sopra minerva, 10. san clemente, 11. san pietro in vincoli (st. peter in chains), 12. san lorenzo fuori le mura (st. lawrence outside the walls), 13. santa maria in cosmedin, 14. san paolo fuori le mura (st. paul outside the walls), 15. sant'andrea al quirinale, 16. santa pudenziana, 17. santa prassede, 18. santa sabina, 19. santa maria in aracoeli, map of churches in rome.

St. Peter's Basilica

The most famous church in Christendom , St. Peter's is dedicated to the Apostle who is believed to have been the first Bishop of Rome, and as such the first Pope. The original church of St. Peter was dedicated in 326, built under the patronage of the Emperor Constantine. In 1452, Pope Nicholas V decided to build an entirely new church, which was not completed until the late 18th century.

Immediately upon entering the basilica's huge interior is Michelangelo's famous Pietà , completed in 1500 and protected by a reinforced glass panel. Other highlights of St. Peter's are the richly decorated Chapel of the Sacrament , with works by both Bernini (the tabernacle) and Borromini (the bronze grille); the great dome designed by Michelangelo.

Be sure to see the well-loved bronze statue of St. Peter Enthroned and over the tomb of St. Peter, the Papal altar with a bronze baldacchino – canopy – created by Bernini when he was just 25 years old and a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. In the left-hand aisle are tombs of famous Popes created by leading artists of their day, including Bernini. More papal tombs are in the crypt.

Because it's one of the most popular places to visit in Rome, the lines at St. Peter's can be long and tiring, and finding your way through all the rooms in the Vatican can be difficult. A way to bypass the lines and navigate the attractions is to take a three-hour Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Tour . A guide will not only make sure you see the highlights, but will put them in their historical and artistic context as well. Included audio headsets will assure that you don't miss a word.

Address: Piazza San Pietro, Rome

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

One of Rome's four patriarchal basilicas and an important pilgrimage church, Santa Maria Maggiore has the distinction of being the only church in Rome to have celebrated mass every single day since the fifth century . The location of the basilica was determined by a vision of the fourth-century Pope Liberius, in which the Virgin directed him to build a church where the snow fell the following day. When snow did fall on the Esquiline hill the next morning, August 5, the Pope ordered the church built.

Additions were made in later centuries: a new apse in the 13th century; Rome's tallest campanile in 1377; and in the late 15th century, the gold coffered ceiling by Giuliano da Sangallo, adorned with the first gold from America.

Two side chapels, added in the 16th century, form transepts: Cappella Sistina, on the right, contains a bronze tabernacle and the tombs of two popes, while Cappella Paolina has a richly decorated altarpiece. On the canopied high altar, a highly venerated image of the Virgin is traditionally attributed to St. Luke, but is in fact a 13th-century work.

This 86-meter-long interior is among the finest and most majestic in Rome, its three aisles separated by 36 marble and four granite columns. Rome's oldest mosaics , from the fourth or fifth century, decorate the upper part of the walls, and an intricate geometric inlay of colored stone, known as Cosmatesque work, from the mid-12th century, covers the floor.

Try to come early in the morning for the best light on the 13th-century mosaics in the triumphal arch and the apse, depicting Old and New Testament themes; they are considered the supreme achievement of the art of the Roman mosaic artisans.

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran)

Before the Popes established their residence in the Vatican after their return from exile in Avignon, the Basilica of St. John Lateran was the Papal residence. St. John Lateran has remained the episcopal church of the Pope, thus the inscription on the façade: "Mater et caput omnium ecclesiarum urbis et orbis" (Mother and head of all the churches of the city and the world).

Begun in 313 with the building of a large church, it was enlarged and altered repeatedly, and almost completely rebuilt in the 16th and 17th centuries. But the basilican plan of the original Constantinian church was respected in this Baroque rebuilding by Borromini.

The wide facade, with its huge statues done about 1735 by Alessandro Galilei, is a masterpiece of late Baroque architecture. The bronze doors came from the ancient Curia in the Forum. Inside, the magnificent timber ceiling dates from the 16th century. In the apse, behind the presbytery, are some fine mosaics, faithful copies of early Christian originals.

From the left aisle, you can enter the cloister , a masterpiece of 13th-century architecture by the Vassalletti, a family of Roman artists. The octagonal baptistery, San Giovanni in Fonte , was built by Constantine on the site of a Roman nymphaeum in the Lateran Palace. It is the oldest baptistery in Christendom, providing a model for later baptisteries, not only in Italy but throughout Europe.

Diagonally across the spacious Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano is the church of the Scala Santa with the Holy Staircase, a flight of 28 marble steps (now clad in wood) believed to be from Pilate's palace in Jerusalem, brought to Rome in the fourth century by St. Helen. The faithful climb it on their knees in memory of Christ's Passion.

The Egyptian obelisk standing in Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano is the tallest and also the oldest in Rome, brought from Thebes in a specially constructed ship in 357.

Address: Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano 4, Rome

Santa Maria del Popolo

Legend holds that this church beyond the Pincio Gardens was enlarged from a chapel built to drive away the evil spirit of Nero. As the church of the Augustinian canons, with a fine Renaissance facade, dome, and campanile, it was extended by Bramante in 1505, and later restored by Bernini.

Martin Luther, who was an Augustinian, lived in the order's house during his visit to Rome in 1510-11, and after the Reformation, the altar at which he had celebrated mass was shunned by other members of the order. Its three aisles and side chapels contain a number of tombs including two in the choir by Andrea Sansovino. On the vaulting of the choir are frescoes by Pinturicchio depicting the Coronation of the Virgin.

The side chapels are particularly fine: the second on the left was designed by Raphael in 1515 for the Chigi family, and the Cesari Chapel, in the north transept, contains two famous pictures by Caravaggio, the Conversion of St. Paul and Crucifixion of St. Peter .

Address: Piazza del Popolo, Rome

The Pantheon

While the Pantheon is high on the list of the city's ancient Roman attractions and was built around AD 120 as a temple to honor Roman deities, today it is a Catholic church. It has been since the beginning of the 7 th century, when it was converted by Pope Boniface IV and consecrated to St. Mary and the Martyrs.

Although its stones, columns, statuary, and even part of the original bronze ceiling, were cannibalized for other uses over the centuries (in the 1600s Pope Urban VIII ordered the portico ceiling melted down to cast cannons for Castel Sant'Angelo), the building remains essentially the same, and its dome is still the world's largest dome of unreinforced concrete.

Since the Renaissance, the Pantheon has become a burial place for important figures, including the painter Raphael, composer Arcangelo Corelli, and the two kings of Italy: Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I. After centuries of being one of the free things to do in Rome, as of the summer of 2018, the Pantheon has begun to charge a small admission fee.

  • Read More: Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Santa Maria in Trastevere

Santa Maria in Trastevere (the densely populated neighborhood on the right bank of the Tiber) may be the first place in Rome where Christians were able to hold services in public. Building began about 221 and was completed in 340; it was rebuilt in the 12th century and redecorated in the Baroque period. The church has a Romanesque campanile, a facade decorated with mosaics, and a portico housing early Christian sarcophagi.

Inside, it's hard to know where to look first – at the beautiful marble inlay in the floor; the gilded, coffered wood ceiling; or the mosaics in the apse, which are masterpieces of medieval art. These portray Christ, the Virgin, and saints above a frieze of lambs, and below this are scenes from the life of the Virgin by Pietro Cavallini in the late 13th century. The 15th-century tabernacle at the west end of the nave on the right is by Mino del Reame.

Address: Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

The 9 th -century church was built over the home of a Roman girl who was martyred at age 14, and it is an interesting place to visit for several reasons. The exceptional 13th century fresco of The Last Judgement is by Pietro Cavallini , a precursor of Giotto, and the beautiful sculpture of St. Cecelia by Maderno was modeled on her incorrupt body exhumed in the 16 th century.

Beneath the church, which also has some good mosaics, are two surprises: the foundations of a Roman home and an exquisite medieval sacristy with a secret – it isn't from the Middle Ages, but was created in the 19 th century in an effort to re-capture some of the beauty of medieval works that had been destroyed in Rome. You enter the church through a lovely courtyard.

Address: Piazza di Santa Cecilia 22, Rome

Basilica of the Holy Cross

One of the seven pilgrimage churches, the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem was built in the early fourth century to house the vast collection of holy relics brought to Rome from Jerusalem by St. Helena, mother of Constantine.

In the relic chapel are artifacts from the Crucifixion: thorns from the Crown of Thorns, pieces of the True Cross , fragments of the Grotto of the Nativity, and other holy relics. These are preserved in 19th-century reliquaries, displayed since the 1030s in a chapel specially constructed for their conservation and display.

Little is left of the fourth-century church after its reconstruction in the 18 th century, but you can see the original granite columns in the later Baroque church.

Address: Piazza di S. Croce in Gerusalemme, Rome

Official site: http://www.santacroceroma.it/en/

Santa Maria sopra Minerva

Built on the site of the former temple of Minerva, which accounts for its name, Santa Maria sopra Minerva is the largest Gothic church in Rome (and one of the few in that style). Begun about 1280 and completed in 1453, its center-city location and service by the preaching order of Dominicans made it popular with the people of Rome, and as you can tell from the number of grave-slabs in the floor and on the walls, it has played an important role in the city's religious life.

The best known of the funerary chapels in this three-aisled basilica is the Carafa Chapel at the end of the south transept, also known as the Chapel of the Annunciation of St. Thomas, famous for its frescoes by Filippo Lippi (1489). These glorify both the Virgin and St. Thomas Aquinas, a member of the Dominican order, with scenes from his life.

The high altar contains the relics of St. Catherine of Siena, and in front of the altar, on the left, is a 1521 statue of the Risen Christ by Michelangelo. Although it was criticized during Michelangelo's lifetime as looking more like a pagan god than the founder of Christianity (the loincloth was added later), the masterly skill in sculpturing impressed other artists -– the painter Sebastiano del Piombo maintained that Christ's knees in this work were worth more than all the buildings in Rome.

In a passage to the left of the presbytery is the tomb of the Florentine painter Fra Angelico, a member of the Dominican order. In Piazza della Minerva, behind the Pantheon, stands the much-loved marble elephant by Bernini, later used as the base for a small Egyptian obelisk from the sixth century BC.

Address: Piazza della Minerva 42, Rome

San Clemente

One of the oldest and most beautiful of Rome's churches, San Clemente was built before 385 by early Christians, on the site of a house containing a shrine of Mithras – now far below street level. After this church was destroyed by the Normans in 1084, a new basilica was built over its ruins at the beginning of the 12th century.

The upper church reflects the old basilican form with an entrance porch; atrium with a fountain; the nave where the congregation worshipped; and the high altar and apse, areas reserved for the clergy.

Notice the ancient columns and the beautiful inlaid marble work in the floor, the screens, the Easter candlestick, the tabernacle, and the bishop's throne. The triumphal arch and apse are the most richly decorated in Rome, covered in mosaics of Old and New Testament scenes , with the Tree of Life, saints and symbols, animals and plants intricately combined.

Also interesting are early Renaissance frescoes by Masolino, completed before 1431, in the little St. Catherine's Chapel at the west end of the north aisle. These scenes from the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria are particularly important because they show the earliest use of perspective painting in Rome.

The lower church, a fourth-century pillared basilica, has frescoes dating from different centuries in the Romanesque period of New Testament scenes and from the life of St. Clement. An underground passage leads to the excavated foundations of a second-century Roman house with the shrine of Mithras in a barrel-vaulted chamber. A relief on the altar shows Persian sun-god Mithras killing a bull.

Address: Via San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome

Official site: http://basilicasanclemente.com/eng/

San Pietro in Vincoli (St. Peter in Chains)

Begun in 431, St. Peter in Chains is one of Rome's oldest churches. Preserved as a precious relic in the high altar are the chains, which Peter was believed to have worn in the Mamertine Prison. The church, like most others of its age, has undergone considerable alterations by later additions. Twenty columns with Doric capitals line the nave, and in the north aisle is an excellent 15th-century tomb of Cardinal Nicholas of Cusa.

But the most important work of art here is Michelangelo's early 16th-century monument of Pope Julius II in the south transept. It was originally conceived by Michelangelo on a larger scale for St. Peter's. Only three figures of the sculpture he originally planned were done by Michelangelo himself: the central figure of Moses and Rachel and Leah, the two wives of Jacob.

The statues of Rachel and Leah are outstanding late works of Michelangelo, but the figure of Moses ranks among the finest achievements in the sculpture of the world. Moses is shown just as he has received from God the tables of the Law and is watching his people dancing round the golden calf, his face reflecting both divine illumination and anger at the people's faithlessness.

Address: Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli 4A, Rome

St. Lawrence Outside the Walls

This early Christian basilica, one of the seven pilgrimage churches of Rome, was founded by Constantine the Great. Despite frequent rebuilding and restorations – most recently after World War II air raid damage – it has preserved its original basilica form, with its porch, its high nave with narrow lateral aisles, the chancel on a higher level, and its handsome columns.

Look for the particularly fine inlay of colored stones in marble on the two marble pulpits; the one on the right is considered the finest example in Rome, which is saying a lot in this city with so much excellent inlay work. Look for more in the floor, the tabernacle, the bishop's throne, the Easter candlestick, and the tomb of Cardinal Fieschi.

The mosaics on the triumphal arch show Christ surrounded by saints, flanked at the sides by elaborate renditions of Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Below, on the level of the first basilica, is the tomb of Pope Pius IX, who died in 1878. The plain cloister dates from the late 12th century.

Address: Piazza San Lorenzo, Rome

The Mouth of Truth at Santa Maria in Cosmedin

On the south side of the Piazza Bocca della Verità , Santa Maria in Cosmedin is one of the finest examples of medieval church architecture in Rome. Begun in 772 and completed about 1124, this architectural gem has a seven-story campanile and a wide two-story porch with a projecting canopy.

The interior is decorated with inlaid marble work by the Roman Cosmati family, including the floor, marble screens of the sanctuary, the marble pulpits, and the bishop's throne. The aisles are painted with frescoes, and several of the columns are recycled from ancient sites, including a stadium. In the crypt are early Christian tombs and the foundations of a pagan temple.

Unfortunately, the fame and popularity of this church rest not on its glorious interior or harmonious architecture, but on the large stone mask in the porch known as the Bocca della Verità , the Mouth of Truth.

Tour buses line the street – one of the few places in Rome where they can park – while tourists line up for pictures with their hand in the mouth. Guides claim this was where Romans swore oaths (the mouth supposedly bit off the hand of anyone telling a lie). It's a good deal more likely that it was a wall fountain or possibly a screen hiding an oracle, who talked through the mouth for greater effect.

The Piazza Bocca della Verità offers one of the finest views in Rome, taking in both Christian and ancient buildings (including two temples) and the Baroque Fountain of the Two Tritons.

Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verita 18, Rome

San Paolo fuori le Mura (St. Paul outside the Walls)

The original basilica built here in the fourth and fifth centuries and dedicated to St. Paul was, until the rebuilding of St. Peter's, the largest church in the world. It was rebuilt after being completely destroyed by fire in 1823 and resumed its position as one of the four patriarchal churches of Rome and one of the seven pilgrimage churches.

Some of the original interior art was saved, and although heavily restored, decorates the new church. The mosaics high up on the façade are 19th-century, but the on the inner side of the Holy Door, you can see the old bronze door, cast in Constantinople in the 11th century.

The vast nave – 12 meters by 60 meters – is divided into five aisles by a forest of 80 columns that lead your eye up to the triumphal arch, lined with fifth-century mosaics, and to the altar and the apse. High up on the walls are 265 portrait medallions of all the Popes.

Apart from the 13th-century Venetian mosaics, which were extensively restored, the decorations in the apse, including the Bishop's throne, are copies dating from the 19th century. Notice the magnificent five-meter Easter candlestick to the right of the altar, the Chapel of the Crucifix, and the baptistery.

In the sacristy, you'll find the entrance to the cloister of the Benedictine abbey, decorated with early 13th-century mosaics by the Vassalletti family. The variety of the columns and the color of the mosaics make this one of the most attractive cloisters in the Western world.

Address: Piazzale San Paolo, Rome

Sant'Andrea al Quirinale

In any other city, this Bernini masterpiece would be filled with tourists, but in Rome, it is often overlooked among the plethora of churches. The interior is an exuberant expression of Baroque style, where art, architecture, and design meld seamlessly. It's no wonder this was Bernini's favorite of all his works, even though the cardinal who commissioned him to build it never paid him for the work.

Notice how the oval floor plan, further opened out by eight lateral chapels, creates the sense of space and movement as it rises from an elliptical space to the round golden dome overhead. In true Baroque style, the structural design is hard to separate from the lavish decoration of pilasters and friezes; arches and recesses; cornices and windows; coffered domes; and marble and stucco flourishes of rose, white, and gold.

Address: Via del Quirinale 29, Rome

Santa Pudenziana

In the Monti neighborhood, about halfway between the Colosseum and Termini train station, the basilica of Santa Pudenziana is one of the rare churches in Rome that has survived intact from the mid-fourth century. Never destroyed and rebuilt, as were so many of Rome's churches, it has been used continuously since its founding. In addition, it holds the earliest Christian mosaic in Rome, dating from before AD 400.

Saint Pudenziana was the daughter of a Roman senator and sister of Saint Prassede, whose basilica is nearby. Together the sisters earned their martyrdom by retrieving the bodies of Christian martyrs and making sure they were properly buried.

Although the church has features from various periods of its history, from antiquity to Baroque, its greatest treasure is the mosaic above the high altar, depicting Christ and his apostles seated in front of the city of Jerusalem. Robed in gold that glitters today as it did in the late third century, Christ is seated on a bejeweled golden throne. The detail of the facial expressions and realism of the scene are especially remarkable. The mosaic was restored in the 16 th century.

Address: Via Urbana 160, Rome

Santa Prassede

Dedicated to the sainted daughter of a Roman, St. Prassede has preserved the character of an early Christian basilica through a number of different building stages. Its high pillared nave rises into the presbytery, where the ninth-century mosaics lining the triumphal arch and apse are among the finest in Rome.

Those on the triumphal arch represent the heavenly Jerusalem; in the apse is the apocalyptic Lamb of the Revelation. Above a frieze of lambs are several saints. These, like other mosaics and frescoes, were intended not just as decoration glorifying Biblical events and saints, but as picture books to instruct the mostly illiterate medieval worshipers in the doctrines of the faith.

The Chapel of St. Zeno in the south aisle, built by Pope Paschal I to house the tomb of his mother Theodora, is like a medieval picture book, every part of the walls and vaulting are covered with mosaics depicting saints and Biblical symbols.

Address: Via San Martino ai Monti, Rome

Santa Sabina

Both the inside and outside of Santa Sabina, built by Peter of Illyria in 425-432, preserve the character of an early Christian basilica, even though it was embellished in 824. On the wall above the entrance is one of the oldest mosaics in Rome, of two female figures, and the central doorway in the porch has the oldest carved wooden doors in Christian art, dating from 432. Carved from African cedar by unknown artists, their delicate and expressive reliefs illustrate Old and New Testament scenes. Eighteen of the original 28 panels survive.

Inside the church, the nave is flanked by 20 Corinthian columns of Parian marble, and the choir has beautiful marble screens with inlaid marble decoration. Adjoining the church, a Dominican monastery in which St. Thomas Aquinas was a monk has a beautiful Romanesque cloister.

A cell belonging to St. Dominic was later turned into a chapel by Bernini. From the terrace next to the church here, you can enjoy a magnificent view across the Tiber towards Trastevere, Piazza Venezia, and Vatican City.

Address: Piazza Pietro d'Illiria, Rome

Santa Maria in Aracoeli

At the top of the Capitoline Hill and reached by the long series of steps known as the Stairway to Heaven, Santa Maria in Aracoeli doesn't overwhelm with its façade or its size, but with its stunning interior. Its three naves reflect both Gothic and Romanesque styles, but the reflections that will dazzle you are from the dozens of chandeliers whose lights are mirrored on the ornate decorations of the interior.

Notice the columns separating the naves – no two are alike, as they were recycled from ancient Roman buildings. Highlights are the ceiling and the statue of the infant Jesus carved of wood from an olive tree in the garden of Gethsemane.

Address: Scala dell'Arcicapitolina 12, Rome

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Where to Go in Rome : In addition to the churches, you'll want to see more of the top tourist attractions of Rome . Our pages on Visiting the Colosseum , Visiting the Roman Forum, and the Top-Rated Museums and Palaces in Rome will help you plan your time.

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Places to Visit near Rome: With tours or Italy's efficient train system, you can easily make day trips from Rome. For gardens and Roman ruins, you can go to nearby Tivoli , or you could visit the many attractions in Naples . And there are several different ways to go from Rome to the island of Capri .

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Churches in Rome

List of the 15 most famous and remarkable rome churches.

Churches in Rome

No other city is as strongly associated with the Catholic faith as Rome, so it is no surprise that the city has over 900 churches. It is impossible to describe them all, but several of these important Rome churches and cathedrals are certainly worth noting.

Four papal basilicas

The four most important churches of Rome are the papal basilicas. These four patriarchal basilicas each have their own ‘Holy Door’. These Holy Doors are opened once every 25 years during the so-called jubilee. The faithful can earn an indulgence by walking through all Holy Doors during a jubilee:

  • St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City , the most famous Rome church.
  • San Giovanni in Laterano (St John Lateran in Rome).
  • Santa Maria Maggiore .
  • Saint Paul Outside the Walls. Before St Peters Basilica was built, this was the largest church in Rome. The church built in honour of the apostle Paul was originally constructed during the time of emperor Constantine, but had to be rebuilt in the 19th century after a devastating fire. The Rome church is called ‘Fuori le Mura’ because it was built outside the city walls at the site where Paul the apostle was buried. The basilica contains medallions decorated with mosaics for all 265 different popes.

St. Peter's Basilica tickets

Seven pilgrimage churches

When pilgrims visited Rome, they were expected to visit seven churches in order to earn the indulgence that related to their pilgrimage. The number seven symbolises the seven hills of Rome, as well as the ‘list of seven’ within the Catholic Church. In addition to the four papal basilicas we have discussed, the following three churches are considered pilgrimage churches:

  • Basilica di San Sebastiano fuori le Mura, the Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls. This church lies along the Via Appia or Appian Way, a famous road outside the city walls lined with many catacombs . More info Via Appia .
  • The Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. This church of ‘The Holy Cross in Jerusalem’ lies near the Saint John Lateran and has several cross relics. It is said the empress Helena brought parts of the Holy Cross to Rome in the 4th century.
  • Basilica di San Lorenzo fuori le Mura, or the Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls. Lawrence was one of the first Christian martyrs in Rome. The church is located next to Rome's oldest cemetery, the Campo Verano. The church was rebuilt many times, including once after a destructive air raid during the 2nd World War that destroyed many frescos. Unfortunately, that means it is now the least interesting church to visit of the seven pilgrim churches.

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Other remarkable churches in Rome

  • The Pantheon : It might not be a building you would expect on a list of churches, but the Pantheon is an official church.
  • Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano : This church consists of multiple layers of churches that were built on top of each other. Here, you can visit the excavations that tell you all about the history of the church.
  • San Pietro in Vincoli: This church lies on the Esquiline Hill in Rome and the name ‘Vincoli’ refers to the chains that bound Peter and that are venerated underneath the high altar. The main attraction in this 5th century church is one of the most famous sculptures by Michelangelo; the 1513 statue of Moses next to the tomb of Emperor Julius II. The statue shows Moses descending mount Sinai with the Ten Commandments.
  • San Luigi dei Francesi: Highlight of this 16th-century basilica for the French community is the Contarelli chapel with paintings of the Mattheus cycle by Caravaggio.
  • The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere: This church is located in the popular district of Trastevere and was originally the oldest Marian church of the city. After several renovations and restorations, the church has retained much of its medieval character, in part thanks to the many authentic mosaics. More about Trastevere .
  • Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyale: This 17th-century on the Piazza Sant’Ignazio is dedicated to the founder of the order of the Jesuits, Ignatius van Loyala. The figurative and literal highlight of this baroque church is the ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo. The ceiling – a false dome – appears to open up to the Saint Ignatius in this remarkable painting.
  • Santa Maria in Cosmedin: This church became famous for the ‘mouth of truth’, or the ‘Bocca della Verità’ (see picture). Originally used as drain cover for the Cloaca Maxima, it displays a river god. The myth says that the mouth will bite off the hand of any liar who sticks his hand in. Today it is a popular photo op (Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verità).
  • Santa Maria della Minerva: This 13th-century church from the dominicans lies near the Pantheon and was built on the foundations of a temple for Isis. It is also special since it is the only gothic church in Rome . Left of the main altar, you can see the ‘Cristo della Minerva’, a famous work by Michelangelo from 1521. The square in front of the church is the site of the famous statue ‘ Elephant and Obilisk (see picture)’ by Bernini.

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Beyond the Vatican: 12 best basilicas and churches in Rome (+map)

Beyond the Vatican: 12 best basilicas and churches in Rome (+map)

Written by Maartje

Because of the splendour of the Vatican in Rome, you almost forget that there are hundreds of other churches in the Italian capital. These are the most beautiful churches and basilicas in the Eternal City.

Map of the best churches in Rome

Rome | Italië | Italy | The Orange Backpack

12 most beautiful churches in Rome beyond the Vatican

#1 san paolo fuori le mura.

There are four basilicas in the world that can call themselves ‘basilica major’ and you can find them all in Rome. Saint Paul Outside the Walls is one of them. You have to be willing to get outside the historic center for this basilica though. The church is built on top of the tomb of the apostle Paul. It’s just as old as the famous St. Peter’s Basilica.

There are many fun facts to tell about the church. The mosaic above the apse for example was once ordered by Pope Honorius III. Modest as he was, he also wanted to have an image of himself in the artwork (look for the figure that kisses feet). It’s also fun to look at the round mosaics of all popes, starting with from the apostle Peter. There are still some spaces open for future popes and legends say that the Day of Judgment will come when all places are filled. Another nice detail: the Dutch princess Irene was christened here in 1964.

#2 Pantheon

Did you know that the Pantheon is a church as well? Pantheon literally means “dedicated to all gods.” The Roman emperor Marcus Agrippa built the temple as a place of worship for the Roman gods. You will see his name on the facade. The famous dome has an opening (the oculus) with a diameter of 8.7 meters. This opening is not just a fake one. You’ll see the proof of that when it’s raining. The floor is slightly curved to drain the rainwater. The opening is a unique solution for keeping the building “flexible” during earthquakes.

#3 Basilica Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Next to the Pantheon is the Basilica Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, one of my favorites in Rome. It is one of my favourites in Rome. It is one of the few churches in Gothic style and the deep blue ceiling with stars is unique. In front of the church is a cute elephant with an obelisk on its back. The designer of the elephant? None other than the famous Bernini. Another well-known name connected with the church is that of Michelangelo. The image next to the altar is his design.

And if you wonder: Minerva? How is that Catholic? Yes, it is indeed the name of the Roman goddess in the name of this Catholic church. The church was built on an ancient temple of Minerva, legends say. In reality, the Minerva temple was a few meters away and there was another building here.

#4 Santa Maria in Aracoeli

This church is right next to the Forum and Piazza Venezia. The monumental church is built on the remains of the old Capitol, a political center of the Roman Empire. You have to save some energy for the 124 steps to get all the way up to this church. And if the facade looks a bit bare to you? It was supposed to be decorated with mosaics, but they were never finished.

#5 Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore

This is also a ‘basilica major’. The church was once called Maria ad Nives (Maria-in-the-Snow), as Maria herself told the pope to build a church. But where? Right where he would find snow the morning, even though it was the summer. You can guess where that was. Centuries later we can still enjoy the result. Almost every corner of this beautiful basilica is decorated with gold or marble. You can also find Bernini’s grave in this church.

Rome | Italië | Italy | The Orange Backpack

#6 Basilica di Santa Sabina

Santa Sabina is on the Aventine hill, one of the seven hills on which Rome was founded. This church excels in its sober style. After all that gold and lavish decoration around Rome, this church is just a haven of simplicity. The church is in my opinion especially a must-visit because of the gardens. As the Santa Sabina is on top of the Aventine you have a beautiful view of Rome from here. What to see? The Colosseum, Forum and Circus Maximus!

#7 Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Vittoria

This small church in the Trastevere district is popular for its famous Bernini sculpture. In the chapel of the Cornaro family is the Ecstasy of Teresa. It is one of Bernini’s masterpieces, though it did cause quite a bit of commotion. The sculpture shows Theresia of Ávila the moment an angel appears to her. Legend has it that the angel stabbed her several times with a lance, leaving her in ecstasy for God. Bernini’s translation has something sexual. Go look for the statue and decide what you think about it yourself.

#8 Santa Maria in Cosmedin

The church itself is perhaps not that special. Yet you  will probably see a line here. Not for the church though, but for the Bocca Della Verita (translated: Mouth of Truth) in the porch. In the porch of the church is a large disk with a face in it. According to legends, you cannot put your hand in the mouth and tell a lie at the same time without losing your hand. If you only want to see the disk, you don’t have to wait in line. You can just peek through the fence and see how tourists put their hand in the mouth for a photo.

#9 Santa Maria Della Concezione

People visit this church mainly because of the crypt. The five chapels are decorated with depictions of death. In marble? Mosaic? No, it is decorated with human bones.

#10 Santa Maria del Popolo

This church is on the famous Piazza del Popolo. Visitors mainly come for the famous chapel of the Chigi family, made by Rome’s greatest architect Bernini. If you’re unlucky, the chapel is closed to visitors. The book by Dan Brown and its film version draws too many people to Bernini’s chapel.

#11 Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano

Second to the St Peter’s Basilica, this church is perhaps the most important one of the Catholic Church. The pope once even officially resided here and today there is still an important connection. The pope is also the Bishop of Rome and basilica is the center of that archbishopric. You’ll see a reference tot that on the façade: “mater et caput omnium ecclesiarum ” (mother and head of all churches).

And the design reflects this importance as well. The San Giovanni is one of the largest churches in Rome. Emporer Constantine already built the first version of the church here in the year 300. What we see today is a seventeenth-century design by the famous architect Borromini, a rival of Bernini. Striking is the beautiful ceiling that is quite out of place among all the marble, gold and mosaic. The pope himself orderded to preserve the old wooden ceiling from the old basilica.

#12 Scala Santa

Opposite the San Giovanni is the Scala Santa. This is the staircase that Jesus Christ is said to have climbed during his trial. The stairs can therefore not be entered on your feet: you can only go up on your knees and you should say a prayer on every single step. Next to the holy staircase is another staircase you can use to go up on your feet. At the top is the Sancta Sanctorum, once the popes’ personal prayer chapel.

Tip : we included pretty much all these churches in our itinerary for Rome in two days !

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Rome beyond the Vatican | best churches and basilicas in Rome

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  • Apr 24, 2023

The Four Major Basilicas in Rome and How to Get There.

As an Italy Travel Specialist, I've been to Rome many times. And as a Catholic in Rome, I wanted to see as many churches as possible. There never seems to be enough time to see all of them no matter how long my stay in Rome is. If you are like me and want to see the best, then Rome's Four Major Basilicas is a good place to start.

free churches to visit in rome

Visiting Rome's Four Major Basilicas can be a wonderful experience for anyone if you know how to plan properly. Here's a guide to help you plan your visit:

St. Peter's Basilica

Located in Vatican City, this basilica is of course the most popular of the Major 4. It is also the largest in the world and is the burial site of Saint Peter, the first Pope.

Artistic masterpieces housed within the basilica, including Michelangelo's Pieta, and Bernini's Baldacchino among the most famous.

Be sure to check out the Vatican Grottoes underneath the church, where several Popes including Pope John Paul II (and most recently - Pope Benedict) are buried. The grottos are free to enter, but if you want to see where St Peter is buried you have to reserve a time way (like a year) in advance.

free churches to visit in rome

And remember to dress appropriately - even for climbing the dome. I found this out the hard way and had to cover both my knees and my shoulders (thank goodness I always carry a scarf (or two) with me at all times.

Address: Via Conciliazioni, St. Peter's Square.

Open: Daily, Apr-Sep 7:00-7:00 PM;

Oct-Mar 7:00-6:30 PM(For occasional closings Click Here )

Treasury Museum: Apr-Sep 9:00-6:15 PM

Oct - Mar 9:00-5:15 PM

Grottoes: Apr-Sep 7:00-6:00 PM;

Oct-Mar7:00-5:00 PM

Admission: Free, but donations are appreciated.

Cupola (Cost: 10 Euros for the elevator, 8 Euros for stairs): Apr-Sep 8:00-6:00 PM;

Oct - Mar 8:00-4:45 PM.

Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura

Located outside the city center, this basilica is dedicated to St. Paul (hence the name: St. Paul Outside the Walls) and is one of the largest churches in Rome. Founded in the 4th century, it was rebuilt after a fire in 1823. Spanning 20 years, it was rebuilt just as it had been with the original Medieval cloister that survived the fire. Inside, mosaics of every pope from St. Peter to Pope Francis look down on visitors.

free churches to visit in rome

The facade of the basilica is adorned with beautiful mosaics and sculptures depicting scenes from the life of St. Paul. Inside the basilica, visitors can see the tomb of St. Paul, which is located beneath the main altar.

The cloister of the basilica is a peaceful oasis, with a tranquil garden and a well-preserved ancient well.

Address: Piazzale San Paolo, 1, 00146 Roma

Open: Daily 7 - 6:30 PM.

The Cloister (cost is €4.00) is open daily 9 - 5:30 PM.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

This basilica is located near the Termini station and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church stands on the site where snow fell on an August night in the 5th century. They still provide a reenactment on the night of August 4/5th where they drop flower petals through an open space in the ceiling and shoot foam outside for those on-lookers from the street.

It is the largest Marian church in Rome and it's the only Roman basilica to have preserved the original paleo-Christian structure. This basilica was founded by Pope Liberius between 352 and 366 but was rebuilt and restructured by Pope Sixtus III.

During the jubilee of 1300, it was renovated, and added were the transept and a new apse decorated with mosaics (Jacopo Torriti in 1295) and depicts the Incarnation of Mary and Stories of Mary.

The basilica also houses several chapels and tombs of important figures in Catholic history.

One of the basilica's most notable features is the Cappella Sistina (built by Pope Sixtus V), which boasts beautiful ceiling frescoes by the artist Michelangelo. Roman guides often refer to this monumental chapel as the "Other Sistine" or the "Twin Sistine Chapel."

O pposite the Cappella Sistina is the Borghese Chapel which houses The Salus Populi Roman icon that is at least a thousand years old, and perhaps the oldest icon in Rome.

free churches to visit in rome

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy

Open: Daily 7 - 6:45 PM

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

This basilica is the oldest and ranks first among the four major basilicas. It is located in the Lateran district. The original church on this site was built just after Constantine (empower of Rome) legitimized the Christian Church (4th Century).

St. John Lateran is the official seat of the Bishop of Rome. You may or may not know this, but the Bishop of Rome is in fact the Pope. This means that the Pope comes here to celebrate important Masses in Rome (which is different from the Vatican City). In the back of the church under the mosiac apse, you can find the Pope's chair. This is where he resides when celebrating Mass.

free churches to visit in rome

In 1929, the 'Lateran Agreement" was signed declaring the Vatican an independent state.

Address: Piazza di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184

Open: Daily 7 - 6:30 PM

My suggestion is (and always has been) to take it slow. If you want to enjoy all four basilicas, I recommend one church per day. visit in the morning so you can stay as long as you want. visit every nook and corner. Lots of people walk right past the Tombs of the Popes (grotto) entrance in St. Peter's because they don't spend the time.

Remember to dress appropriately (knees and shoulders covered) and be respectful when visiting these Holy Sites. Enjoy your visit to Rome's Four Major Basilicas!

Have you been to all four? Which one is your favorite? Post in the comment section below.

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    Address: Via Acciaioli, 2, 00186 Roma RM, Italy The San Giovanni dei Fiorentini church in Rome, Italy is the national church of Florence in Rome and is dedicated to John the Baptist. While the groundbreaking was in 1523, the church wasn't completed until 1734.

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    The Must-See Churches in Rome St. Peter's Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano Basilica Saint Paul Outside the Walls Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica Pantheon (Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyres) Basilica di Santa Maria del Popolo Trinità dei Monti Church and Cloister Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone

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    And to be reminded where the power lies today, the city's largest, richest and most spectacular basilica leaves all other churches in its shadow - and is completely free to enter. There will probably be a line to enter Rome's showstopping St Peter's Basilica, but after taking 126 years to build, maybe a little wait to see this opus isn't so bad.

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    (Table of Contents) Basilica of Saint Peter in Chains The Basilica of Saint Peter in Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli) is a hidden gem among Rome's treasure trove of historic sites. The church is renowned not just for its spiritual significance but also for housing one of the world's greatest sculptures: Michelangelo's Moses.

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    St. Peter's Basilica But with over 900 churches and cathedrals in Rome, there is no way you will have time to see them all in one visit. So what are the most famous churches in Rome that are worth visiting?

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    Europe Italy Top Churches to Visit in Rome By Martha Bakerjian Updated on 06/13/19 Fact checked by Michelai Graham TripSavvy / Christopher Larson Rome has many interesting churches with fine artwork worth a visit. Many churches stay open all day but some close for a few hours in the afternoon.

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    Nearby, San Francesco a Ripa is a church devoted to Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. Legend has it that St Francis once stayed at a convent adjacent to the church. Although it is relatively simple in design and often overlooked by visitors, this 17th-century church served as barracks from 1873-1943.

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    Piazza della Rotunda, 00186 Roma St. John Lateran's Archbasilica This basilica is the official seat of the bishop of Rome, who is the Pope. Because it is the cathedral of the bishop of Rome, it ranks above all other churches in the Catholic Church, including St. Peter's Basilica. Crazy, right?

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    A list of the most beautiful churches in Rome can only start with St Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece by the hand of many of the most influential architects and artists in the history of Italy. St Peter's Basilica is in Vatican City, an independent state within the city boundaries of Rome.

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    1. St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica Papale di San Pietro) No list of churches in Rome would start without a shoutout to St. Peter's Basilica, the most famous church in the world. Located in the heart of the Vatican City, St. Peter's is known for its breathtaking beauty, profound historical significance, and religious importance.

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    San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura Okay, this isn't exactly considered one of the churches in Rome: Constantine built the St. Lawrence Outside of the Walls Basilica, just outside of Rome over the tomb of St. Lawrence, a martyr and one of the first deacons of Rome. Today it remains a shrine to the saint, as well as St. Stephen and St. Justin.

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    Admission to most churches in Rome is free, nevertheless the churches will be happy about a small donation. You can do this by lighting up a candle for which you will have to pay a small amount. Top 10 Rome Churches: 10 churches in Rome that you should visit 1. Rome Churches: St. Peter's Basilica in Rome

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    PART 2: San Giovanni In Laterano to the Churches near Termini. a. Start the second part of this walk in one of Rome's most important churches, San Giovanni De Laterano (#8). After relishing the sublime art in this essential pilgrim site and paying respects to St. Peter's and Paul's heads, proceed to our next stop. b.

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    Santa Maria Maggiore: Ultimate Top 10 Best Churches In Rome to Visit. Overflowing with art, the showstopper here is the staggering 5th-century mosaics in the church's triumphal arch hovering above the main altar. Equally magnificent mosaics featuring Old Testament tales accentuate the nave.

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    One of the least-visited churches in Rome is the small and charming one devoted to Santa Prisca, the young Roman martyred in the 3rd century. The church is located in the history-rich Aventine Hill, near the Roseto Comunale (Rome's rose garden), and was built between the 4th and 5th centuries.. The interior of the church is divided into three naves and features 14 pillars crowned with ...

  18. The Best Churches in Rome to Visit

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    These included the four patriarchal basilicas (San Giovanni in Laterano, San Pietro in Vaticano, San Paolo Fuori le Mura, and Santa Maria Maggiore), as well as three others: Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura, and San Sebastiano.

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    Basilica di San Sebastiano fuori le Mura, the Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls. This church lies along the Via Appia or Appian Way, a famous road outside the city walls lined with many catacombs. More info Via Appia. The Santa Croce in Gerusalemme.

  21. Beyond the Vatican: 12 best basilicas and churches in Rome (+map)

    12 most beautiful churches in Rome beyond the Vatican. 12 most beautiful churches in Rome beyond the Vatican. #1 San Paolo Fuori Le Mura. #2 Pantheon. #3 Basilica Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. #4 Santa Maria in Aracoeli. #5 Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore. #6 Basilica di Santa Sabina. #7 Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Vittoria.

  22. The Four Major Basilicas in Rome and How to Get There

    The Pope's Chair in St John Lateran of Rome. In 1929, the 'Lateran Agreement" was signed declaring the Vatican an independent state. Address: Piazza di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184. Open: Daily 7 - 6:30 PM. Admission: Free, but donations are appreciated. My suggestion is (and always has been) to take it slow.

  23. St. Peter's Basilica

    The basilica was called St Peter's after one of Jesus's twelve disciples known as Saint Peter, who became one of the founders of the Catholic Church and was executed in Rome and buried where the Basilica now stands. Inside the Basilica. St Peter's Basilica can accommodate 20,000 people. It measures 190 m (624 ft) long and the central nave ...

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    Rome has over 900 churches. The Trevi Fountain was originally built as an endpoint of an aqueduct. You can visit the Pantheon for free. Rome's official symbol is a she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus.

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  27. The First Omen (2024)

    The First Omen: Directed by Arkasha Stevenson. With Bill Nighy, Charles Dance, Ralph Ineson, Nell Tiger Free. A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church, but encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy that hopes to bring about the birth of evil incarnate.