An astonishing reality is that there are around 900 Cathedrals in Rome altogether. The city of Rome in Italy is the best place on the planet to discover stunning religious architecture. Italy’s capital is famous for being perhaps the most gorgeous city in Europe, and no place is this more clear than in the amazing architecture, elite workmanship, and fascinating histories of incredible Cathedrals in Rome. Follow our manual to find out about the historic churches in Rome, which are genuinely remarkable and among the best things to do in the city!
5 Churches In Rome You Must Explore
1. St Peter’s Basilica Vatican City
The basilica was designed by the commended artist Michelangelo and is one of the most famous examples of Renaissance architecture in existence. Home to the tombs of the popes and the treasury of church ornaments, the basilica’s inside is as glorious as the outside. Try to get some margin to scale the 551 steps to the highest point of the cupola to partake in a stunning display across the entire city. It is a must-visit Catholic church in Rome to explore!
St Peter’s Basilica Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Timings: Opens daily | April-Sept (7 AM-7 PM) and Oct-March (7 AM-6.30 PM)
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2. The Sistine Chapel (Church in Rome)
There are countless churches in Rome to explore! An absolute marvel to observe, the Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most famous sight in Europe and the world. Situated inside the Vatican Museums, superb frescoes cover every last bit of the walls here, while focusing on not a plain spot. The exquisite detail in each aspect of the chapel’s improvement is simply stunning. More than 1,000 square meters of paintings retell the whole history of Man – with every one of the biblical tales from Creation directly through to Man’s Fall.
Painted by Michelangelo over the span of around four years, the 500-year-old roof is a genuine masterpiece of workmanship, which is considered one of the world’s greatest treasures. Keep an eye out for the long queues that stretch out into the distance from the entry of the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica.
The Sistine Chapel Address: 00120 Vatican City, Rome
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Sunday closed)
3. Basilica Of Our Lady In Trastevere
Tracing all the way back to around 350 AD, Santa Maria Church in Trastevere is one of the old churches in Rome. The church is celebrated for the stunning Byzantine mosaics improving the inside, which were made around the twelfth 100 years. The church houses many famous religious relics, including the head of St. Apolonia and part of the Holy Sponge.
A delightful octagonal wellspring outside the church is a peaceful place to unwind while soaking up the incredible sight of the Santa Maria church and the magnificent atmosphere of the Trastevere district.
Santa Maria Church in Trastevere Address: Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Timings: 7:30 AM–9 PM (All days open)
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4. The Pantheon, Rome
Among the popular Cathedrals in Rome among tourists, the Pantheon is commended as the best-preserved working of the Roman Empire in existence, thus offering an unmatched chance to acquire an insight into the Old World. This structure houses the tombs of Italy’s most famous monarchs, as well as the country’s dearest artist, Raphael. The Pantheon is most famous for the opening of its roof, which leaves the inside open to the elements. Many come to watch this completely round light emission get across the inside over the course of the day, enlightening the lavish improvement and debauched displays of marble.
Pantheon Address: Piazza Della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Timings: 9 AM–6:45 PM (All days open)
5. Santa Maria in Aracoeli, Rome Church
However far smaller than the colossal basilicas on this list, the Santa Maria in Aracoeli church is a genuine pearl. It is situated at the pinnacle of Capitoline Hill, the most significant of the seven hills in Antiquated Rome was found. The 124-step staircase that leads to the church is known as the “Stairway to Heaven”, which is all well and good. A strikingly plain block outside hides a treasure store of lavish features, Catholic riches, and luxurious enhancement.
A combination of Romanesque and Gothic architectures, the church boasts three stunning naves and 22 columns, each an alternate size as the columns were taken from various Old Roman buildings. One of the most spectacular sights is the column of around 50 chandeliers in Santa Maria in Aracoeli which venture amazing rainbow reflections across the whole church. The most famous thing here is the statue of the baby Jesus, cut from wood from an olive tree in the Nursery of Gethsemane.
Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara coeli Address: Scala dell’Arce Capitolina, 12, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Timings: 7 AM-7 PM (All days open)
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Honestly, there are more than 900 churches in Rome and it is quite impossible to talk about all of them in a single blog. But, we have covered the most popular cathedrals that every traveler must visit and offer prayer to God. Rome is having its own incredible history and these holy spots are perfect to learn about the iconic architecture of our ancestors. So, when are you visiting here?