The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is an iconic church in Rome, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it stands as the largest of its kind in the city. Its importance is not only due to its size but also to the rich cultural heritage it preserves. Filled with a vast collection of artifacts and art, every inch of the church seems to be a part of religious history. It is said that some of the most famous artworks and relics in the world are housed within its walls. Though its beautiful 18th-century façade appears Baroque, it’s actually one of the oldest churches in Rome, built around 440, which only adds to its historical significance. Visitors can easily get lost in the beauty and history of this breathtaking church.
San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura
San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura, just outside of Rome, was built by Constantine over the tomb of St. Lawrence, one of the first deacons of Rome and a martyr. Today it remains a shrine to the saint, as well as St. Stephen and St. Justin, and serves as an important place of pilgrimage. Its location just outside of the city makes it a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds of central Rome.
San Giovanni in Laterano
St. John Lateran, known as San Giovanni in Laterano in Italian, is the official cathedral of Rome and is the seat of the bishop of Rome, or the Pope. One of the four major basilicas in Rome, the cathedral was built in the 4th century AD and is believed to be one of the first Catholic churches in Rome. Visitors can admire its impressive architecture and rich history while attending a Mass or a religious ceremony.
Santa Maria in Trastevere
Santa Maria in Trastevere, supposedly built around 350 AD, is one of the oldest churches in Rome and one of the most impressive. Its stunning mosaics and intricate frescoes transport visitors to a different time, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. In addition, the lively Trastevere neighborhood surrounding the church offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore after a visit.
Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
Santa Maria Sopra Minerva gets its name from the site it was built upon – over (sopra) the ruins of a temple for Minerva, the ancient goddess of wisdom. The present-day Basilica sits over the ruins of three ancient Roman temples, including the Temple of Minerva. Visitors can marvel at its art, architecture, and religious significance, making it one of the most fascinating churches to visit in Rome.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo may look inconspicuous from the outside, but its interior is a treasure trove for art lovers. The church has seven chapels, each of which contains some of the best examples of works by Renaissance artists, including Pinturicchio, Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio. The Piazza del Popolo, where the church is located, is also a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
The Basilica of San Clemente
The Basilica of San Clemente, located just a few blocks away from the Colosseum, is named after St. Clement, Catholicism’s third pope. The 12th-century Basilica is built on top of a 4th-century church, which in turn was built on top of a 1st-century pagan temple – all three of which you can visit today. Visitors can explore the complex layers of history and religion that make this church truly unique.
St. Cecilia in Trastevere
St. Cecilia in Trastevere is a 9th-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 16th century after she was exhumed. Visitors can admire the church’s stunning architecture, which features intricate mosaics and frescoes while paying homage to the life and legacy of St. Cecilia.
The Basilica di Sant’Agostino
The Basilica di Sant’Agostino is located in the heart of Rome and is a perfect example of Roman Renaissance architecture. The church houses several notable works of art, including Caravaggio’s Madonna di Loreto, and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most iconic structures, with a history that spans over 2000 years. Originally built as a temple to all the gods of ancient Rome, it was later converted into a church. Today, it remains a marvel of engineering and architectural design, with its massive dome and perfect proportions still drawing crowds of visitors every year.
