September 17th, 2014 04:20 pm
You can talk about Rome without stopping for a very long time. And so much has already been said that it is extremely difficult to add anything new.
But I'll try - just out of harm :)))
As the Italians say - All over the world, paintings are kept in museums, and only in Italy in churches.
So let's take a walk around these same churches and temples and see ...
1. Santa Maria di Loreto (Santa Maria di Loreto)
The construction of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Loreto is considered an excellent result of the joint work of talented architects Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and Bramante. The main altar of the basilica was built in 1628, under the direction of the no less magnificent architect Gaspard Vechi. Some time later, the Basilica of Santa Maria di Loreta was again reconstructed in 1867 by Luca Carnini. The interior of the church is a unique combination of antiquity. In the chapels you can see unique mosaics by Paolo Rosetti dating back to 1594. Finding the basilica is quite easy, it is located in the ancient part of the city. 
2. Pantheon
The desire to embody the greatness of ancient Rome in architectural forms manifested itself in the Pantheon. The very first building of the ancient Roman temple of the Pantheon was built by Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Octavian Augustus, in honor of the victory over Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Cape Actions. Roman Pantheon Italy Around 110 AD the temple burned down from a lightning strike, and on the old foundation, the emperor Hadrian in 125 AD. erected a new building, grander than the former. 
The Pantheon has no windows. The only source of light is a 9-meter round hole at the top of the dome, symbolizing the heavenly all-seeing eye. The hole is not glazed, and the light penetrating through it is not scattered in space, but is accumulated in the form of a huge light column. 
The Pantheon has survived the best other religious buildings of antiquity because it has always been a functioning temple. Initially, the Romans performed rituals here in the name of the 7 most revered gods - Neptune, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, Pluto, Mercury and Saturn. 
Outstanding Italians such as the painters B. Peruzzi, Rafael Santi and others, as well as kings Victor Emmanuel II, Umberto I and Queen Margherita are buried in the Roman Pantheon. The first celebrity buried in the Pantheon was Raphael, who died in 1520. 
3. Santa Maria di Montesanto (left) and Santa Maria dei Miracoli (right)
Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria di Montesanto are two Baroque churches in Rome, located in Piazza del Popolo and facing the north gate of the Aurelian Walls. Churches are often referred to as twins because of their superficial resemblance, but in fact there are many differences in their plan and details.
The origin of churches dates back to the 17th century, when the buildings that served as the main entrance to Rome during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance were restored. Pope Alexander II commissioned the architect Carlo Rainaldi to create a monumental entrance to Via del Corso. The construction of both churches was financed by Cardinal Girolamo Gastaldi, whose coat of arms can be seen on both churches. 
Santa Maria di Montesanto was erected on the site of the church of the same name and for some time belonged to the Carmelite Order. The very name of Montesanto - the Holy Mountain - refers to Mount Carmel in Israel. The construction of the church began in 1662 and was completed in 1675 (some elements were added in 1679). 
4.San Giacomo in Augusta
The construction of the church was begun in 1592 by the architect Francesco Capriani da Volterra and continued in 1598 by Carlo Maderno.
The first church on this site was built in the 14th century next to the hospital for the terminally ill (Incurabili) - it was called San Giacomo degli Incurabili. And the prefix "in Augusta" was added later, because of the Mausoleum of Augustus, located nearby. 
The interior of the church is notable for the bas-reliefs and stucco work of the French sculptor Pierre Le Gros the Younger, paintings by Giuseppe Passeri, the work of the mannerist artist Cristoforo Roncalli and other works of art. 
5. San Carlo al Corso (San Carlo al Сorso)
Church of Saints Ambrose and Charles is a titular church (since June 7, 1967) dedicated to the holy bishops of Milan, Ambrose and Carlo Borromeo in Rome. Built on the occasion of the canonization of Saint Carlo Borromeo in 1610. The construction was carried out under the direction of the architect Honorio Longhi (English) Russian. in 1612-1619, then 1616-1627 under his son Martino. In 1668 the dome was erected (by Pietro da Cartona), in 1684 the decoration of the façade was completed. Inside the church is richly decorated with gilding and frescoes by G. Brandi, the altarpiece is by Carlo Maratta. 
6.San Lorenzo in Lucina
San Lorenzo in Lucina is the oldest of the Christian basilicas in Rome. According to scientists, the basilica was erected on the site where the sacred well of Juno used to be. In the 12th century the basilica was reconstructed. In front of the entrance to San Lorenzo, a magnificent portico was built from columns of ancient times, to which capitals from the Middle Ages were subsequently added. The pediment of the basilica was made in the shape of a triangle, and the walls were decorated with marble mosaics. In the middle of the 19th century, the facade of the basilica was rebuilt again. The main value of the basilica is the Fonseca Chapel, designed by Bernini and the “Crucifix”, located above the main altar, by Reni. 
7. Santa Maria Maddalena (Santa Maria Maddalena)
In this place in Rome since 1586 there was a church of the Order of Saint Camillus de Lellis. Construction of the current church began in the 17th century and was completed in 1699. 
8. St. Julian of the Flemings (Chiesa di San Giuliano dei Fiamminghi)
This is the Roman Catholic Church of Saint Julian. Historically, the church was the national church of the Southern Netherlands in Rome, in 1830, became the national church of Belgium. 
9. Santa Maria di Monserrato (Santa Maria di Monserrato)
The temple was designed by Antonio da Sangallo Jr. for Aragonese and Catalans. In 1582-84, according to the plans of Francesco da Volterra, the lower part of the facade was completed, around 1673-75 the church was finally completed. Since 1807 it has been the national church of the Spaniards in Rome. 
In the church there are tombstones of popes from the Borgia clan - Callist III (Alfonso de Borja) and Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia). 
10. Santa Maria in Trastevere
Titular Basilica in the Trastevere area, perhaps one of the oldest churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin. 
The first church was built on this site already in the 3rd century under Pope Calixtus I, in the 4th century under Pope Julius I a large basilica was built, and in the 12th century under Pope Innocent II a new building with a campanile was erected. 
Every church has an organ (there are also concert schedules), and this one was no exception. 
11. Church of St. John Kuschnik (Chiesa di San Giovanni Calibita)
The church was built in the 14th century. But it is likely that the church was founded on the site of the temple of Jupiter.
The church was reconstructed in 1640, the façade was completed in 1711, and the rich interior decoration was completed in 1742. 
In the first chapel on the right there is a miraculous icon of the Mother of God / Madonna della Lampada / of the 13th century, the image of which is also on the facade of the church. The relics of St. John Kuschnik, the holy martyrs of Persia Marina, Martha and their sons Avdifaks, Avvakum and Hieromartyr Hippolytus rest in the main altar. All churches are active. 
12. Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica di S.Maria Maggiore)
church, papal basilica, one of the four major basilicas in Rome. An interesting legend is connected with its foundation. On one of the summer nights of 352, Madonna appeared in a dream to Pope Liberius and the rich Roman Giovanni Patrizio and ordered to build a church on the spot where snow would fall the next day. The next morning, August 5, 352, snow lay on the Esquiline, where the basilica now stands. After that, they began to build a church 
13. and in completion - St. Peter's Cathedral in the Vatican.
Almost all the major architects of Italy took turns participating in the design and construction of the Cathedral of St. Peter. In 1506, the project of the architect Donato Bramante was approved, according to which they began to erect a centric structure in the form of a Greek cross (with equal sides). After the death of Bramante, the construction was led by Raphael, who returned to the traditional form of the Latin cross (with an elongated fourth side), then by Baldassare Peruzzi, who settled on the centric structure, and Antonio da Sangallo, who chose the basilic form. Finally, in 1546, the management of the work was entrusted to Michelangelo. 
Michelangelo made all the supporting structures more massive and singled out the main space. He erected the drum of the central dome, but the dome itself was completed after his death (1564) by Giacomo della Porta, who gave it a more elongated shape. Of the four small domes envisaged by the Michelangelo project, the architect Vignola erected only two. 
Inside, the cathedral impresses with the harmony of proportions, and with its huge size, and the richness of decoration - there are a lot of statues, altars, tombstones, many wonderful works of art. 
By tradition, a map of my movements (to be honest, there are more than one day here) 
It is not possible to embrace the immensity and go to every church in Rome - there are very, very many of them, and each is beautiful in its own way.
Having visited Israel, I roughly understood how Christianity began, but having visited Italy, I saw not even religion, but the power of the church.
Rome is an eternal city, Catholic and very religious. Travelers who come to Rome, however, do not have to be Catholics to admire the beauties of the amazing temples that have stood here for centuries.
Visiting local Catholic churches will be a useful and interesting experience for both Catholics and ordinary tourists who appreciate the beauty and history imprinted in these centuries-old buildings - real pearls of architecture. Below you will find the most beautiful temples in Rome that you must visit if you find yourself in the capital of Italy.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is said to be home to some of the finest examples of Renaissance artists including Raphael, Bernini and Caravaggio. The church was built in 1099 to deal with the Romans' belief that the ghost of Emperor Nero was roaming the square near Rome's north gate, all because of a tree that housed sinister-looking crows. The tree was cut down, and a church appeared in its place.
Laboratorioroma.it
Santa Maria in Trastevere
Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches in Rome, most historians believe that it was built around 350 BC. The church has an impressive mosaic of the 12th-13th centuries; over the years it has been significantly expanded and reconstructed. The church was destroyed when Rome was sacked in 410 BC, but the temple was later rebuilt.
A legend is also associated with this church, according to which on the day when Christ was born, oil poured from heaven to earth. On this site, the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere was later erected.
sulpalco.itSanta Maria Sopra Minerva
Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is ruled by the Dominicans. It stands on the spot where there was once a temple to the Egyptian goddess Isis, although at the time it was believed that it was a temple to the Greco-Roman goddess Minerva. The church was built in 1370 and is located about a block from the Pantheon. Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is believed to be the only surviving example of an original Gothic church in Rome today. It houses a statue by Michelangelo, as well as impressive frescoes from the 15th century.
thecarousel.itPantheon
The Pantheon is one of the few major places of worship in Rome that was not originally built as a Catholic church. The Pantheon is the most important architectural building in Rome, it was built as a temple of the Roman pagan gods under Emperor Hadrian around 118 BC, then was destroyed by fire in 80 BC. The Pantheon became a Catholic church at the beginning of the 7th century. Two kings and the greatest of the Renaissance artists, Raphael, are buried here.
rome-roma.netBasilica of San Clemente
The Basilica of San Clemente is named after Saint Clement, who was the third pope after Saint Peter. The Basilica is just a few blocks from the Colosseum. The current temple was built on top of four previous buildings, including other churches that were destroyed by fires. The modern basilica is worth a visit to see its fabulously beautiful frescoes and mosaics.
settemuse.itSan Giovanni in Laterano
San Giovanni in Laterano (Church of Saint John Lateran) is one of the four main basilicas in Rome. It is dedicated to John the Baptist and John the Evangelist and is known as the "Cathedral of Rome and Peace". It is believed that the first is the first Catholic church built in Rome. Externally, the temple does not seem as richly decorated as other churches, but you just have to look inside and you will be amazed. Decoration of walls, columns, mosaics, frescoes and even candlesticks with images of the prophets.
deviantart.netBasilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the most important Catholic churches in Rome. The church includes an impressive array of artefacts and art representing the Christian art of the ancient Roman civilization. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to pay their respects to the basilica, where every stained glass window, column or fresco has its own religious history. Travelers who will be in Rome on August 5 may want to see the celebration of La Madonna della Neve with a wonderful snowfall.
civitavecchia.portmobility.itSaint Paul's Cathedral
It is not the oldest Catholic church in Rome, but certainly the most famous in Italy and one of the most famous throughout the world. It is believed that the cathedral was built on the site of the crucifixion of the first pope. The modern cathedral took 150 years of reconstruction, but it was worth it. It is here that the works of the greatest Renaissance artists, such as Michelangelo, who designed the dome, are located.
September 29, 2018
Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world and for many centuries it was the largest center of social and political life. Religion occupied a special place in the life of the ancient Romans. The first temples dedicated to the pagan Gods began to be erected as early as the royal period, around the 6th century BC. These most ancient temples of Rome have survived to this day - their ruins can still be seen in Rome today. Let's get to know them.
The ruins of the ancient temple of Vesta, dedicated to the Roman goddess of the hearth, are located in the oldest part of the Eternal City, in the Roman Forum. Presumably the temple appeared in the VI-V centuries BC. The building, round in plan, was surrounded on the outside by a colonnade. The sacred fire was constantly burning in the temple, which was maintained by the priestesses of the goddess Vesta - the vestals, and inside there was a cache that kept sacred relics.
Contemporaries can see only three fifteen-meter columns, an altar, as well as the source of Yuturna, whose water was considered healing.
One of the most ancient religious buildings of Ancient Rome, which was lucky enough to survive to this day, is the temple of Saturn. Its ruins can be seen in the Roman Forum. Saturn - the God of earth and fertility, in ancient times was especially revered by the Romans, temples were erected to him and new cities were named after him. According to legend, in ancient times, Italy was called Saturn's land.
The Temple of Saturn was erected at the foot of the Capitoline Hill in the second half of the 5th century BC. During its history, the building burned down more than once during fires, but it was restored. Today, only a few columns of the portico and part of the foundation have survived. On the frieze you can see the inscription in Latin:
SENATUS POPULUSQUE ROMANUS INCENDIO CONSUMPTUM RESTITUIT
Which translates as: Senate and people of Rome restored destroyed by fire».
During the Republican period, the treasury was located under the temple, where not only the Roman treasury was stored, but also important state documents.
Portun's Temple is one of the few ancient buildings that managed to survive to this day. In ancient Roman mythology, Portun was considered the god of doors, keys and cattle, the guard of entrances and exits. The temple is located in the Bull Forum. In republican times, there was a small port and a market where a lively cattle trade was conducted.
The first temple of Portun appeared in the 3rd century BC, but the building that can be seen today dates back to the 1st century BC. From the previous building, only a part of the foundation, found during excavations, has been preserved.
The temple is the oldest surviving marble building in Rome. It was built around 120 BC. at the Bull Forum, not far from the Temple of the Portun. Dedicated to the hero of ancient Greek mythology, the deified Hercules, whose cult through the Greek colonists spread to Italy.
The legendary ancient Roman commander and statesman Gaius Julius Caesar was the second in history, after the founder of Rome, Romulus, to be deified by a Roman. Just two years after the brutal assassination of Caesar, starting in 42 BC. the construction of a temple in his honor began. Unfortunately, only a small part of it has survived to this day, but the ruins that can be seen today in its place give a good idea of how impressive in size this building was more than two thousand years ago.
Three tall columns and part of the podium - this is all that has been preserved from the temple of Venus the Ancestor in the forum of Caesar. It was erected in 46 BC. at the direction of the great Julius Caesar in gratitude to Venus, fertility, beauty and love, for help in the victory over Pompey. The cult of Venus was of particular importance in the life of the ancient Romans, who considered her their patroness.
The surviving ruins of the temple are located in the Imperial Forums, or Fori imperiali, in the center of the Forum of Augustus, commissioned by the first Roman emperor in the 2nd year of our era. It was a majestic building, richly decorated with white marble, sculptures of kings and great Roman generals, sacred statues of gods and mythological characters.
In 79 AD, a temple was erected in the Roman Forum in honor of the two deified Flavian emperors - Vespasian and his son Titus. Only a few columns remained from the majestic temple, as well as some bas-reliefs, which are now kept in museums.
The temple of all the gods - the Pantheon - is located in the Rotunda Square, or Piazza della Rotonda, in the historic center of Rome. This building was built by order of Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD. e. To this day, it remains a functioning temple. The Pantheon is a unique example of ancient Roman architecture; its design features testify to the great achievements in the field of ancient engineering.
Many prominent personalities of the past are buried in the Pantheon, including the Italian kings Umberto I and Vittorio Emmanuele II, Queen Margherita of Savoy, as well as famous Renaissance painters and architects Rafael Santi, Baldassare Peruzzi and others.
According to historians, the most majestic religious building of Ancient Rome was a temple erected to the glory of the goddesses Venus and Roma, the patrons of the Eternal City. It was consecrated in 135 AD. e., during the reign of Hadrian. The emperor himself was the architect of this monumental structure.
The ruins that can be seen today near the Colosseum give an idea of the size of the ancient structure. The pedestal on which the temple was erected is 145 meters long and 100 meters wide.
Modern Rome is not just a city with a long, centuries-old history, it is a real open-air museum, the exhibits of which surprisingly find a place among modern buildings. One such example is the temple of Hadrian, located on Stone Square (Piazza di Pietra). Part of the ancient Roman structure turned out to be built into a 17th-century building designed by Carlo Fontana.
The temple to the glory of the deified emperor Hadrian was erected by his adopted son and successor Antoninus Pius in 141-145 AD.
The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina is one of the few well-preserved pre-Christian temples of the Forum. By decree of Emperor Antoninus Pius, who was essentially a deeply religious person, a temple was erected in the Roman Forum in about the middle of the 2nd century in honor of his late wife Faustina. When the emperor died, an eagle was released into the sky at the farewell ceremony, which symbolized the deification of Antoninus. On the frieze of the portico you can see the Latin inscription:
DIVO ANTONINO ET DIVAE FAUSTINAE EX S(enatus) C(onsulto)
which is translated from Latin as: Divine Antoninus and Divine Faustina by decision of the Senate».
One of the largest buildings located in the Roman Forum is the basilica dedicated to the emperors Maxentius and Constantine. The height of the vaults of the basilica, built in 312, was 39 meters, and the area of just one nave exceeded four thousand square meters.
The most ancient temples of Rome, preserved to this day
Rome is indeed monstrously old. Ancient catacombs, ancient temples, grottoes, a network of narrow streets, inconspicuous buildings of the richest churches - all this creates an indescribable atmosphere. And the religious world of Rome is a separate universe with its own laws and traditions. The churches of Rome are so diverse and colorful that you involuntarily begin to doubt which of them you need to see first.
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San Giovanni in Lateranno
The Lateran Basilica is at the highest level among all the religious buildings of Rome, surpassing in status such ancient and undeniably revered monuments as St. Peter's Basilica. In the archbasilica is the throne of the pontiff. This is where the first Christian church in Rome once stood. Later - already by the ninth century - the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist appeared on the Lateran Hill, which for some time retained the status of the only papal temple.
The real dawn came for the Lateran Basilica, when Borromini undertook its reconstruction, giving the archibasilica bright Baroque features. At the same time, huge bronze doors were transported from the Roman Forum itself to be installed at the main portal. The Basilica of San Giovanni impresses with the richness of frescoes and mosaics made in the classical Byzantine style. Carved ceilings, decorated with stucco columns, sculptures of the apostles, ancient religious artifacts made of silver and precious stones - the basilica justifies the inscription above the main entrance: "the mother of all churches in Rome and the world."
Church of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica of St. Mary is impossible not to notice, as it is the largest church in the Catholic capital, as its name unobtrusively reminds: "major" - large. Yes, and in front of the entrance is a fifteen-meter statue of the Virgin Mary, cast in bronze. It's hard to accidentally pass by. In addition, despite the fact that the date of foundation of the church refers us to the fourth century AD, this church is almost the only one in Rome that has almost completely preserved its authentic appearance. A legend about the Mother of God is connected with its foundation, who ordered to build a temple on the spot where the snow would fall.
The snow fell, and the church began to be called the Church of the Mother of God in the Snows, but this action took place in August. The mosaic of the thirteenth century is dedicated to this story with amazing skill. The richest ceiling paintings, medieval mosaics and magnificent examples of mosaic art, preserved from the time of the construction of the church, tell about the life of Christ, convey Old Testament stories. The church consists of three chapels, the most famous of which is the Sistine chapel, so that both fans of cultural shrines and those wishing to touch the holy relics are guaranteed to be satisfied with a visit here.
San Pietro in Vincoli
The basilica is also known as the basilica of St. Peter in chains, that is, in chains. It is noteworthy that this artifact, which is an important religious shrine, is kept in a modern basilica. “Honest chains” were here thanks to Eudoxia, the Byzantine queen, who at one time presented them as a gift to the pontiff. She also founded the temple in Rome, which today we call San Pietro in Vincoli.
The basilica is included in the list of the seven largest buildings of this type in Rome and has been one of the centers of pilgrimage for many centuries. Its facade looks completely unremarkable, however, this is not surprising. External modesty distinguishes most of the buildings of the fourth century. But most tourists come here not for the sake of sacred relics, but to see with their own eyes the stunning tomb of Julius II by Michelangelo with a sculptural composition of forty figures and the undoubtedly brilliant sculpture “Moses” by the same master.
Santa Maria sopra Minerva
This building, made of light stone, is one of the main temples of the Dominican order. It was transferred to the order in the eighth century. Then, on the site of the modern basilica, there was a rotunda, named after Minerva, after the name of the ancient temple of the same name, which was located nearby. It was here that at one time Galileo and Count Cagliostro “voluntarily” renounced their views. Not to recognize Santa Maria sopra Minerva is quite difficult.
This is perhaps the only temple in Rome, made in the Gothic style with lancet arches and sky-blue vaults, skillfully painted with stars. Unfortunately, medieval Gothic has not come down to us in its pure form - in the guise of a basilica, baroque elements, traditional for Florentine masters and Rome, are still visible. The main value of the temple is still the statue of Christ with a cross, which is attributed to the works of Michelangelo. It is sustained in the spirit of Antiquity and demonstrates the moment of the resurrection of Christ.
Santa Maria del Popolo
A rather large building, decorated in gray and blue tones, few people are forced to hold their eyes on themselves, only real treasures are hidden behind such an unremarkable shell. According to legend, there was once a tomb of Nero on the site of the basilica, over which a poplar tree gradually grew, quickly chosen by ravens. This place was already considered cursed, and the appearance of a bony tree and black birds made the picture even less attractive. Everything changed at the end of the eleventh century when the Pope had a dream. The Virgin Mary ordered to destroy the poplar and build a temple in its place.
First came the chapel, and then the basilica itself. You can talk about the interior of this place for hours - many geniuses of their era left their masterpieces here. So, at different times, Giovanni Bernini, who gave the building a baroque look, worked on the design of the chapels, Rafael Santi, who decorated the dome with a large-scale and in terms of scope and in terms of design, the Creation of the World mosaic, Caravaggio, an Italian master who gave this place two whole his paintings, and Pinturicchio, although tourists will not be able to see the work of the latter. The chapel, which he designed, was badly damaged and was already reconstructed by Bernini.
Church of San Clemente
To the east of the Colosseum is a small church, but under the low arches lies a real storehouse of Christian shrines, dating back to the time of Emperor Nero. Oddly enough, in this basilica you can even bow to Orthodox saints, in particular the relics of Cyril, who created the Slavic alphabet. The tomb of St. Clement, one of the most important components of the basilica, is located on the lower level. Local mosaics are of interest. In modern terms, they are more like comics, moreover, many of the inscriptions are made in a far from high style.
This allows linguists to speak of the existence of an early Italian language. Under the relatively new premises of the Middle Ages in the twentieth century, the ruins of an early Christian temple were discovered. Of particular interest is the temple of Mithras, which dates back to the third century. Now a grotto has been preserved from it, in which benches and a stone altar stand under the vaulted ceiling. But the archaeologists did not stop there either - under the grotto were the remains of civilian premises destroyed during the time of Nero.
Santa Maria in Cosmedin
The church has a laconic, strict design, located on the left bank of the Tiber. Until the fourth century, the Bull Forum was located on the site of the church, and even earlier, an ancient temple built in honor of Hercules. The first building served civil needs - it acted as a food distribution point for the poor, but gradually all charitable funds were concentrated in the hands of the Papal Throne, and by the seventh century the complex itself became the property of the Greek community, which fled to Rome when Byzantium fell.
Even in the sovereign name of the church, an echo of those times is felt: “kosmidion” - from the Greek “beautiful”. This characteristic was not accidental - the interior of the temple is really amazing. Cosmati floors, an authentic Gothic red granite altar, an Easter candelabrum preserved from the thirteenth century, fragments of the Baptism of the Lord mosaic (the rest are kept in St. Peter's Basilica and in the Uffizi Gallery in sunny Florence) - all this can be seen in the chapels.
The bell tower, one of the highest in Rome, is extremely openwork and decorated with multi-colored majolica. A somewhat unusual symbol of the church is the "Mouth of Truth" - a marble slab reaching almost two meters in diameter. The exact application of this echo of Antiquity is still not entirely clear, but the Triton mask that adorns it definitely arouses the interest of tourists.
Santa Maria in Trastevere
Oddly enough, but this basilica - due to a number of historical circumstances - has become one of the most popular basilicas among the Orthodox population. Two Orthodox icons were even installed at her altar, but it should be understood that the history of the creation of the church itself is in no way connected with Orthodoxy. It is important to understand that Santa Maria in Trastevere is considered to be perhaps the first Christian basilica officially allowed in Rome. The modern building was mostly erected in the twelfth century.
The main building material was travertine blocks, which were taken from ancient thermae. At the time, this practice was commonplace. The facade is decorated with the image of the Virgin Mary with Jesus in her arms. The fresco is from the thirteenth century. The interior space - with high ceilings, stucco and gilding - is "bordered" with mosaics in the cosmatesco style.
Church of Santa Sabina
The basilica is located on the Aventine hill and is part of the monastery complex of the Dominican order. It was erected on the remains of the matron Sabina, revered in Rome. By the tenth century, local authorities appreciated all the advantages of the location of the basilica and turned it into a fortification. However, this state of affairs did not last long - soon the church building began to pass from the hands of one noble Roman family into the hands of another.
The series of reconstructions was interrupted only by the middle of the twentieth century, when the Dominican order wished to return the basilica to its authentic appearance. So, she was able to preserve all the characteristic features of the ancient Roman structure. If you find yourself in the Church of Santa Sabina, be sure to go into the courtyard, where an old orange tree grows. According to legend, this tree was the first orange tree grown in Italy.
San Paolo Fuori le Mura
This basilica is one of the four so-called patriarchal basilicas in Rome. It is located outside the city walls at the place where, according to legend, the Apostle Paul was buried. However, recently the sarcophagus of the mentioned apostle was indeed found. The first version of the basilica seemed to Theodosius I not majestic enough for such a significant place for the entire religious world.
A large-scale construction began, which laid the foundation for the construction of a modern church. The building that can be seen today has a classic look. The façade is decorated quite strictly and is decorated with the figure of Christ, on both hands of which are the apostles: Peter and Paul. In the design there are echoes of the Byzantine style, as well as Gothic and Baroque architecture. The basilica is especially proud of its ancient organ, the last reconstruction of which took place in the twentieth century.
Sant'Andrea al Quirinale
This church is another outstanding project by Bernini, commissioned by the Jesuit order on the Quirinal Hill. The order needed premises for the novitiate, that is, the period of novitiate, the institution of which was introduced in the sixteenth century. Once on the site of Sant'Andrea al Quirinale there was an old church, whose building is too dilapidated. Only one foundation remained - a powerful foundation, on which a new baroque basilica was built for ten years.
Bernini himself considered it one of his best creations and could sit inside for hours, enjoying the realization that this work of architectural thought belongs to his authorship. The inner space of the church is very contrasting - the dark side panels favorably set off the beautifully lit central part of the room. The dominant feature of the interior is the painting “The Martyrdom of Saint Andrew” by Guillaume Courtois.
Church of Saint Praxeda
This monument of architecture of the ninth century does not stand out too much against the general background of Roman streets. The almost bare façade contrasts strongly with the splendor and luxury of interior decoration. It is here that the titular church is located, which is known for the most part for the beauty of ancient frescoes and the presence of a large number of remains of saints and great martyrs. It is named after Saint Praxeda and is located on the site of the former baptistery dedicated to the same saint.
The life of this woman has come down to us in retellings and legends, but she became famous mainly due to the fact that, according to the canons of the Christian rite, the martyrs immured in the Roman catacombs were buried. Today, the crypt contains more than two thousand remains of saints. Their names are engraved on marble slabs.
San Lorenzo Fuori Mura
This church, which is unusual from an architectural and historical point of view, is located outside the city walls, since earlier Christian churches were erected on the burial places of martyrs, who - as required by the canons - gave their lives for the faith. And they were buried according to the old Roman customs outside the city walls. The design of the church is more than original: in fact, it is a series of independent churches that were simply connected.
Until the Second World War, the church of Pope Pegalius and the church of Pope Honorius were clearly visible in its appearance, but one enemy shell destroyed this amazing symbiosis. Most of the valuable frescoes have perished, only marble frescoes and a few early Christian sarcophagi have survived. Also, the old part of the church, dating from the sixth century, was not actually affected. Other rooms had to be reconstructed.
Church of Santa Constanta
The first versions of the temple date back to the third century AD. Its construction is associated with the name of Constantine the Great, who decided to build a mausoleum for his daughters. Construction began immediately, and very soon a neat light building with ornaments, mosaics with images of Jesus Christ and a fine painting of the dome grew up near the Nomentara road. True, the mausoleum gradually began to turn into a basilica: first, a font appeared for the baptismal ceremony, and then other attributes of the church. This is how we see it today.
Rome is a special city that is directly related to the birth of modern civilization. Its historical heritage is priceless, in addition, in the heart of the Italian capital is the Holy See of the Catholic Church - the Vatican. It would take several lives to touch all the sights of the eternal city, but tourists, as a rule, try. We bring to the attention of travelers a selection of the 10 most interesting temples that you must visit in Rome.
1 - Basilica di San Pietro
The main Catholic church is located on the territory of the state of the Vatican. Raphael, Michelangelo and other geniuses of the Renaissance were involved in the creation of the cathedral. Among the masterpieces are the magnificent marble "Pieta", the statue and the throne of St. Peter. The cathedral is huge, its facades and interior are decorated with images of Christ and saints. From the top of the dome, you can see the square and the panorama of Rome.
The cathedral is open from 7:00 to 18:00 in winter and until 19:00 in summer. Ascent to the observation deck - from 8-00 to 16-45 in winter and to 17-45 in summer.
Entrance to the cathedral is free, usually there is a large queue that moves quickly. At the entrance, visitors go through a metal detector and a bag check. Do not take large backpacks with you. It is necessary to follow the elementary rules that apply in any Christian church: cover your arms and legs, take off your hats for men, and cover your heads with scarves for women. In shorts, T-shirts and miniskirts, they simply won’t let you in - this is the Vatican!
Entrance tickets to the dome cost €6 when climbing 551 steps on foot, €8 when climbing 230 steps by elevator (the rest of the way is on foot). The ascent is very difficult, not recommended for elderly people and tourists with small children (it will not be possible to turn back, because the stairs are very narrow).
Don't leave the Vatican without seeing the Sistine Chapel.
The address: Piazza di San Pietro, 00120, Città del Vaticano. Metro stations: Ottaviano and Cipro.
2 - Sistine Chapel of the Vatican (Cappella Sistina)
"Precious Box" of the Vatican, the former house church. The room is decorated with frescoes by Botticelli, Pinturicchio, vault. Currently, the Sistine Chapel is one of the. The Vatican Conclaves gather in a luxurious building to choose a supreme pontiff.
Opening hours from Monday to Saturday from 9-00 to 18-00 (entry no later than 16-00), the last Sunday of each month - from 9-00 to 14-00 (entry no later than 12-30). You can order an excursion to the chapel and other Vatican Museums at this link.
Entry €16. No photography allowed.
The address: Citta del Vaticano 1, 00120. Ottaviano metro station.
A unique ancient pagan temple dedicated to all Roman deities. Subsequently transferred to the Christian Church and consecrated in the name of Santa Maria (Saint Mary) and Martires (Martyrs). The building was built without windows, there is a hole in the dome - a circle with a diameter of 9 m, symbolizing the unity of all saints. A gigantic beam of light enters through this single "window". Raphael is buried in the Roman Pantheon. Read more about the Pantheon in.
Access to the temple is free, open from 9-00 to 16-00 in winter and until 18-00 in summer, on Sundays until 13-00.
The address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186. Barberini metro station.
4 - Santa Maria Maggiore
The early Christian temple is located near the Termini station, on the Esquiline hill. One of the four great Roman basilicas and of the seven pilgrimage Catholic churches. The ancient building is well preserved. The interior of the temple has beautiful mosaics of the 5th century, the ceiling is covered with gold brought on the ships of Columbus. The original manger of the Infant Jesus is kept in the cathedral. Three chapels (Sistine, Sforza and Paolinskaya (Borgese)) attract tourists with the luxury of decoration, and pilgrims with papal burials. The Paolina Chapel is for prayer only, it is forbidden to take photos here.
The Basilica is open daily from 7:00 to 19:00. Free admission.
Tickets for guided tours of the papal halls and the Historical Museum (€4) are sold at the entrance, which is open from 9:00 to 18:30.
The address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 42 | Via Liberiana, 27, 00185. Termini metro station.
5 - Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini
A small Capuchin church is located next to the Trevi Fountain. Guido Rini is also kept behind a modest brick facade. The main attraction of the temple is the crypt, which includes 6 small rooms. The walls are decorated with intricate baroque patterns made up of the bones of four thousand monks, the ceilings are decorated with chandeliers made of human vertebrae, alcoves for skeletons are made of skulls. The remains of the monks were transferred from the old cemetery of the Capuchins and used to decorate the crypt in the 18th century. This place is rightfully considered one of the.
The crypt opens daily at 9-00 and closes at 19-00 (visitors stop running at 18-30). Entrance costs €6.
The address: Via Veneto 27, 00187. Barberini metro station.
6 - Lateran Basilica (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Archibasilica Sanctissimi Salvatoris)
The main cathedral of the world is Basilica maior, the Great Temple, consecrated in honor of Christ the Savior in 324. Several valuable relics are kept in the cathedral. In the niches of the central nave, you can see statues of 12 apostles.
The temple is open for visits from 7-00 to 18-30, the Basilica Museum from 10-00 to 17-30, admission is free.
The address: Piazza di Porta San Giovanni, 4, 00184. S. Giovanni metro station.
7 - Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura
Another of the four patriarchal temples of the "Eternal City". The huge majestic basilica is located on the outskirts of the city, but next to the metro. The church attracts many pilgrims because under its vaults lie the relics of the Apostle Paul. In front of the facade is a luxurious area, a well-groomed green square. The temple is active, there are few tourists here.
Open from 7:00 to 19:00, admission is free.
The address: Via Ostiense, 186, 00146. Metro station Basilica di San Paolo. Buses: 23; 128; 670; 761; 766; 769; 770; C6.
8 - Il Gesù (La chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Gesù)
It is worth walking a short distance from Piazza Venezia to see the incredible “voluminous” ceiling painting, frescoes by Florentine masters of the 16th century, statues of the 12 apostles, icons of the 14th and 17th centuries. The collegiate church with an ascetic facade and bright interior decor belongs to the Jesuit Order.
The church is open daily from 7:00 to 12:30 and from 16:00 to 19:45, admission is free.
The address: Piazza del Gesu | Via degli Astalli, 16, 00186. Metro stations Colosseo, Cavour.
9 - Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
Opening hours: from 10-00 to 12-00 and from 16-00 to 18-00. The entrance is free.
The address: Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, 12, 00141. Metro stations: S. Giovanni and Manzoni.
10 - Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli
The architectural ensemble of the Renaissance, located on the south side of Piazza del Popolo. The twin churches are incredibly similar, but there are many differences between them in detail.
In the Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, you can see magnificent frescoes, stucco, sculptures of cardinals, and a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary on the altar.
In the small basilica of Santa Maria in Montesanto - the "churches of artists" built in the 17th century - there is a "Mass of artists". Note the altarpiece of the Virgin Mary of Montesanto. The creation of the icon dates back to the 15th century, there is a legend that it was painted by a child - a girl of 11 years old.
Opening hours: from 10-00 to 12-00 and from 17-00 to 20-00 (on Saturdays only from 10-00 to 12-00, on Sundays from 11-00 to 13-30). Free admission.
The address: Piazza del Popolo, Via del Babuino 198. Flaminio metro station.
11 - Santa Maria in Cosmedin
A small cozy basilica is well known to fans of Audrey Hepburn's work from Roman Holiday. Tourists tend to put their hand in the "mouth of truth". According to legend, a dishonest person is at great risk: the deity is able to deprive the liar of his fingers.
The medieval building is also interesting for its original architectural form, frescoes of the 11th century. In the chapel of the temple are the relics of St. Valentine, the patron saint of all lovers.
The church is open to tourists from 9:00 to 17:00 in winter and until 18:00 in summer. Free admission. Don't be alarmed if you see a line - probably, these are Japanese and Chinese tourists lined up to approach the "mouth of truth" and prove the purity of their thoughts.
The address: Piazza della Bocca della Verita, 18 | 00186. Metro station Circo Massimo.
Do not try to see everything interesting and beautiful in one trip. Acquaintance with the architectural and artistic heritage of the past is a worthy occasion for new Roman voyages.
