On my first day in Rome, it rained so badly, we thought we’d end up staying at the hotel. But luckily, we didn’t. What can you do when it rains in Rome, you ask? Visit all the churches you can!
Let me just say that this is not necessarily about religion. It can be if you are religious, but it can also be an opportunity to discover Rome’s art and history. Because let’s not forget, Michelangelo’s most famous works were made for the church. The works of art made by other renowned artists like Bernini or Raphael were also commissioned by the church. And that’s where you’ll see most of these art pieces in Rome. So, whether it rains or not, do enter the churches in Rome, because you’ll discover some amazing things!
Rome is the city with the most churches in the world. It has over 900 basilicas, and they all have something interesting to offer, as you will see below. So, between the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Fontana di Trevi, be sure to make some room in your Rome itinerary for a few churches. Here’s what you can see in the seven basilicas we visited.
1. Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio
Located just a few minutes away from the Fontana di Trevi, Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio is a stunning baroque church that offers two amazing works of art. Its most famous art piece is the frescoed ceiling that gives the illusion of an infinite space.
Designed by Andrea Pozzo, the breathtaking fresco illustrates the missionary activity of Sant’Ignazio and is one of the most beautiful ceilings in Rome.
But there is more to see in this gorgeous church. Besides the spectacular fresco, the basilica is also famous for its fake dome. Initially, the church was supposed to have a real dome, but as the Jesuits ran out of money, they had to replace it with a painting that creates the illusion of a dome. It is an amazing optical illusion you should definitely include in your Rome itinerary!
2. Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli
A beautiful church near the Colosseum, the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli is less known but equally worth visiting! Here, you can see one of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, the statue of Moses, for free!
And, in addition to this amazing work of art, the church also houses the chains that held St. Peter in prison.
3. Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The oldest and most important of Rome’s four papal basilicas, the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano was founded in the 4th century under emperor Constantine the Great. The church is believed to contain important religious relics, such as wood from the table of the Last Supper and the skulls of Saints Peter and Paul.
You can admire the twelve statues representing the apostles, made by students of Bernini, and the frescos on the ceiling designed by Michelangelo.
Across from the church, you will find the Holy Stairs, which are believed to be the same stairs that Jesus climbed on his way to trial. According to Catholic tradition, the mother of Emperor Constantine, Queen Saint Helen, brought these 28 marble steps to Rome from Jerusalem in the 4th century. The original staircase is the one in the middle and it is only climbed on knees.
Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano and the Holy Stairs are a 20-minute walk away from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.
4. Basilica di Sant'Andrea delle Fratte
Located between Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi Fountain, the Basilica di Sant’Andrea delle Fratte is another beautiful church you should visit in the historical center of Rome. It’s a wonderful basilica with stunning pieces of art.
Among others, here you can see the two Angels sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for the Sant’Angelo Bridge. These two angels are the only ones sculpted by the artist as he entrusted the execution of the others to his students.
Pope Clement the XI thought they were too valuable to be exposed on the bridge, and decided to display copies instead. Eventually, the original angels were donated to the church, where you can admire them for free.
5. Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Located close to the Termini station in Rome, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major is one of Rome’s four papal basilicas and one of the first churches built to celebrate the Virgin Mary.
Built in the year 431, it has a breathtaking interior and a special energy. It houses some amazing mosaics and frescoes, and also a relic of the manger from the Nativity of Jesus. This is Pope Francis’s favorite church and a must-see attraction in Rome.
6. Basilica Papale di San Pietro
When in Rome, you must see Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. The biggest church in the world, the workplace of the Pope himself, and a pilgrimage site for millions of visitors from all around the world, Basilica Papale di San Pietro is a work of art.
The church houses important religious relics, like the tomb of St. Peter, but also works of art by some of the greatest artists in history, including Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael.
7. The Pantheon
Originally a Roman temple, the Pantheon is an architectural marvel that was converted into a church in the 7th century. Its most famous feature is the oculus, a circular opening in the ceiling that lets in light and rain.
At the Pantheon, you can see the tombs of several Italian kings and the renowned artist Raphael. Located in the historical center, near the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona, the Pantheon is a must-see attraction in Rome.
These are the churches we visited and loved in Rome. If you’re getting ready for a trip to the Eternal City, subscribe to our YouTube channel, where you’ll find a lot of Rome travel tips & tricks, and several guides to help you make the most of your trip!
