Santa Maria Nuova Church
A serene church in Cortona with beautiful views, and a Baroque masterpiece in Rome filled with art and music.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances views
Santa Maria Nuova Church
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene church in Cortona with beautiful views, and a Baroque masterpiece in Rome filled with art and music.
"Discover the tranquil beauty of Cortona's Santa Maria Nuova or the artistic grandeur of Rome's Chiesa Nuova."
Cortona's Peaceful Escape
Visit Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona for beautiful views and a quiet moment outside the town walls. :camerawithflash:
Rome's Art & Music Hub
Chiesa Nuova in Rome is a must-see for Baroque art and its impressive twin pipe organs. :musical_score:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cortona's Scenic Views
Cortona, Italy
Enjoy picturesque views overlooking the Tuscan landscape from the church's peaceful location.
Rubens' Masterpiece
Santa Maria in Vallicella (Chiesa Nuova), Rome
Marvel at Peter Paul Rubens' stunning altarpiece, a highlight of this Baroque church.
Pietro da Cortona Frescoes
Santa Maria in Vallicella (Chiesa Nuova), Rome
Be captivated by the vibrant frescoes adorning the ceiling and interior, showcasing Baroque artistry.
Baroque Organ Spectacle
Santa Maria in Vallicella (Chiesa Nuova), Rome
Discover the impressive twin pipe organs, a hidden gem of this Roman Baroque church.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cortona's Charming Santa Maria Nuova
Rome's Baroque Gem: Chiesa Nuova
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cortona's Peaceful Escape
Visit Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona for beautiful views and a quiet moment outside the town walls. :camerawithflash:
Rome's Art & Music Hub
Chiesa Nuova in Rome is a must-see for Baroque art and its impressive twin pipe organs. :musical_score:
Modest Charm in Cortona
The church in Cortona is small but offers lovely scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. :church:
Baroque Splendor in Rome
Don't miss the stunning interior of Santa Maria in Vallicella, featuring works by Rubens and Cortona. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Cortona's Peaceful Escape
Visit Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona for beautiful views and a quiet moment outside the town walls. :camerawithflash:
Rome's Art & Music Hub
Chiesa Nuova in Rome is a must-see for Baroque art and its impressive twin pipe organs. :musical_score:
Modest Charm in Cortona
The church in Cortona is small but offers lovely scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. :church:
Baroque Splendor in Rome
Don't miss the stunning interior of Santa Maria in Vallicella, featuring works by Rubens and Cortona. :art:
Nominal Entry Fee
A small fee grants access to the charming Santa Maria Nuova church in Cortona. :euro:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona for its beautiful, peaceful location and lovely views, despite its modest interior. In Rome, Chiesa Nuova (Santa Maria in Vallicella) is lauded for its magnificent Baroque art, including works by Rubens and Pietro da Cortona, and its impressive twin pipe organs.
"Beautiful views from the place. The church is quite small and modest, but it's location makes it a Beautiful place to have a walk!"
Bianca Zucchelli
"Beautiful quiet place charge of 1 euro to enter"
Ian Taylor
"location just out of the wall of the towns not far from Monument cemetery"
federico iannaccone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona is located just outside the town walls, making it an easy walk from the main town center. It's a pleasant stroll offering scenic views as you approach.
Chiesa Nuova is centrally located in Rome, near Piazza Navona. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby, or enjoy a walk from many popular Roman landmarks. 
While there might be limited parking near the church in Cortona, it's generally more convenient to explore the town on foot. The church's location outside the main walls makes it a pleasant walk.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Rome and can drop you off close to Chiesa Nuova. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
While dedicated tours for Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona might be less common, local guides often include it as part of broader Cortona walking tours, highlighting its historical context and views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small, nominal fee of 1 Euro to enter the Santa Maria Nuova Church in Cortona, making it an affordable visit.
No, tickets are generally not required for entry into Chiesa Nuova in Rome. It's a functioning church, and access is usually free, though donations are welcome.
Opening hours for Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or visit during the afternoon for pleasant light.
Yes, Santa Maria in Vallicella is known for its musical heritage, including its two pipe organs. It's worth checking for any scheduled organ concerts or events during your visit.
Photography is generally permitted inside Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona is described as a modest church. Its main draw is its peaceful ambiance and the beautiful views it offers from its location.
Chiesa Nuova is renowned for its Baroque art, featuring significant works by Pietro da Cortona, including stunning frescoes, and an altarpiece by Peter Paul Rubens.
Yes, Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona is a wonderful spot for a brief visit. Its modest size and peaceful setting make it ideal for a short stop to enjoy the views and quiet.
Santa Maria in Vallicella, or Chiesa Nuova, is a prime example of Roman Baroque architecture, known for its grandeur, ornate decorations, and dramatic use of light and space.
Restroom facilities at smaller churches like Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona might be limited. It's advisable to use facilities in town before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities at Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona are the panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside from its exterior and the peaceful ambiance of the church itself.
Photography is generally allowed inside Chiesa Nuova in Rome, but always check for specific signage regarding artwork. Avoid flash to protect the delicate frescoes and paintings.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers the most beautiful light for photographing Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona and the surrounding landscape.
Drone regulations can vary by location in Italy. It's advisable to check local ordinances before flying a drone near Santa Maria Nuova Church in Cortona or any historical site.
The most photogenic features of Chiesa Nuova in Rome include the magnificent ceiling frescoes by Pietro da Cortona, the ornate Baroque interior, and the impressive twin pipe organs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1In Cortona, Santa Maria Nuova is a good spot for families seeking a brief, peaceful interlude. The short walk from town and the lovely views provide a gentle outdoor activity. It's a place where kids can stretch their legs and enjoy a moment of calm before or after exploring the town's more active attractions.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
+1For those interested in the history of Cortona, Santa Maria Nuova offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. Its location outside the main town walls speaks to historical development patterns, and its modest architecture provides a contrast to the grander churches within the city. It's a place to appreciate the historical landscape surrounding the town.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
In Cortona, Santa Maria Nuova is perfect for a peaceful stroll and enjoying scenic views together. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet moment, a shared appreciation of the Tuscan landscape, or a romantic sunset view. The nominal fee makes it an easy and rewarding addition to any itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Santa Maria in Vallicella (Chiesa Nuova)
+1The artistic treasures within Chiesa Nuova are truly remarkable. The ceiling is adorned with magnificent frescoes by Pietro da Cortona, depicting scenes that create a sense of heavenly ascension. The high altar features a spectacular altarpiece by the Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens, a testament to the church's importance and the wealth of its patrons. The sheer scale and detail of these works make it a pilgrimage site for art lovers.
Beyond the paintings, the church is also noted for its impressive twin pipe organs, a rare feature that adds to its acoustic and visual grandeur. Imagine the powerful sound filling this ornate space during a performance! The overall effect is one of overwhelming beauty and artistic achievement, characteristic of the Baroque era's dramatic flair.
Cortona's Santa Maria Nuova: A Tranquil Vista
Visitors often find Santa Maria Nuova to be a peaceful retreat from the bustling activity within Cortona's medieval streets. It's a place to pause, reflect, and soak in the quintessential Tuscan landscape. The church's position makes it an ideal spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when the light bathes the rolling hills in a warm glow.
With a small entry fee, Santa Maria Nuova is an easily accessible and worthwhile stop for anyone exploring Cortona. It offers a glimpse into the quieter side of this historic hill town, combining a touch of local religious heritage with breathtaking natural beauty.
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