Sacred spots to see
Rome is full of churches, basilicas and sacred places. As is often the case, these monuments are among the most beautiful locations to visit, regardless of one's religious faith. Not sure which basilicas to see first? Here are some suggestions.
Santa Maria Maggiore
One of the four papal basilicas, located near the Monti district and Termini station. It was built on the foundations of a former church, and the exact location was apparently revealed to Pope Liberio in a miraculous prediction by the Virgin Mary.
San Clemente al Laterano
Not far from Santa Maria Maggiore you'll find this interesting medieval-style basilica, built in the 12th century upon ancient Roman buildings from the post-Neronian era. That means you can admire a religious monument and ancient Roman architecture all in one place.
Sant'Andrea al Quirinale
Another basilica you can't miss is Sant'Andrea al Quirinale near the Monti district. The main reason this little gem is worth a visit is its creator, the illustrious architect and artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Pantheon
An extremely famous and completely unique temple in Rome, dedicated to every deity of the past, present and future. The dome is one of the largest in the world and its large hole in the middle is one of the main attractions in the whole city.
Santa Maria sopra Minerva
Located in the historic centre not far from the Pantheon, this is a very special example of architecture with a considerably varied mix of styles, with a Romanesque facade, Baroque interior and Gothic elements.
Santa Maria del Popolo
A basilica located right next to the obelisk in Piazza del Popolo, worth visiting for the various sculptures and paintings it contains, by artists who have transformed the history of art such as Caravaggio, Raffaello and Bernini.
Saint Louis of the French
The basilica of the French community in Rome, located near Piazza Navona, with several works celebrating French saints and historical figures, and featuring three masterpieces by Caravaggio.
San Giovanni in Laterano
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is the first of the four major papal basilicas and is considered the true cathedral of Rome. If you visit St Peter's, you have to see the majesty of the San Giovanni district too!
