Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme Rome
A 4th-century basilica housing sacred relics like fragments of the True Cross, built on earth from Jerusalem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 4th-century basilica housing sacred relics like fragments of the True Cross, built on earth from Jerusalem.
"Discover sacred relics and a 'Holy Land' atmosphere at this unique Roman basilica."
🎯 Seek out the relics
Don't miss the sacred relics, including fragments of the True Cross!
🚶♀️ Explore the Chapel
Descend to the Chapel of St. Helena for its beautiful mosaics.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Relics of the True Cross
Chapel of Relics
See fragments of the True Cross and other sacred artifacts, including a nail and thorns from Christ's crown.
Chapel of St. Helena
Under the main altar
Descend to this ancient chapel, adorned with a stunning 16th-century mosaic.
Ancient Earth from Jerusalem
Basilica foundations
Experience the unique atmosphere of a church built with sacred earth from the Holy Land.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Sacred Relics
Explore a 'Holy Land' in Rome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Seek out the relics
Don't miss the sacred relics, including fragments of the True Cross!
🚶♀️ Explore the Chapel
Descend to the Chapel of St. Helena for its beautiful mosaics.
🏛️ Appreciate the history
Built on earth from Jerusalem, it's a unique spiritual site. 
📍 Easy to find
Located in the Esquilino district, accessible by public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Seek out the relics
Don't miss the sacred relics, including fragments of the True Cross!
🚶♀️ Explore the Chapel
Descend to the Chapel of St. Helena for its beautiful mosaics.
🏛️ Appreciate the history
Built on earth from Jerusalem, it's a unique spiritual site.
📍 Easy to find
Located in the Esquilino district, accessible by public transport.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme for its profound collection of Christian relics, including fragments of the True Cross, and its unique foundation of earth from Jerusalem. Many find the Chapel of St. Helena with its mosaics particularly captivating. While it's a less crowded alternative to major Roman attractions, some visitors note that signage about the relics could be clearer.
"The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is located at Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme at the northeast end of Giardini di via Carlo Felice. This is one of the seven major pilgrimage churches in Rome, making it particularly interesting to visit this year during Jubilee. Opening hours are 7.30am to 7pm daily.
The basilica dates back to the 4th-century and includes relics brought back to Rome from the Holy Land by Emperor Constantine's mother, Helena. The basilica takes its name 'in Jerusalem' because of the soil that was brought from Jerusalem that once covered its floor. Important relics inside include fragments of the crucifixion, thorns from Crown of Thorns and a copy of the Holy Shroud.
The church facade is Baroque the result of 18th-century works and includes a couple of 4th-century pillars. The nave is less ornate compared to other Baroque churches scattered around the city, the main altar includes a nice baldachin and apse mosaics. A lower level Chapel of St. Helena contains nice sculpture and ceiling frescos as well.
On the whole, this is a nice church to visit while sightseeing around Rome. It is somewhat isolated but can be combined with a visit to Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano and Santa Scala which are just a few hundred metres away at the southwest end of Giardini di via Carlo Felice."
Brad
"11.11.25. 11:09am. Visited 1 of 7 Basilicas in Rome.
According to Christian tradition, the basilica was consecrated circa 325 to house the relics of the Passion of Jesus Christ brought to Rome from the Holy Land by Empress Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine I. The basilica's floor was supposed to be covered with a handfull of soil from Jerusalem,[1] thus acquiring the title in Hierusalem; it is not dedicated to the Holy Cross of Jerusalem, but is considered in a sense to be in Jerusalem (much in the way that an embassy is considered extraterritorial). Between 1561 and 2011 it was the conventual church of an adjacent and now dissolved abbey of Cistercian monks whose aesthetic simplicity greatly influenced the basilica's interior. The church is now run directly by the Diocese of Rome. The current cardinal priest of the church is Juan José Omella."
Vincent Tan
"A short walk from the Lateran, this 4th-century basilica is one of Rome’s seven major pilgrimage churches. It was founded by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, to preserve the relics of Christ’s Passion brought from Jerusalem.
The interior combines devotion and baroque elegance, with marble floors, ornate ceilings, and vivid frescoes. The Chapel of the Relics displays fragments of the True Cross, a nail from the Crucifixion, and a thorn from Christ’s crown.
Visitors can also enjoy the quiet monastic garden nearby, perfect for reflection after exploring this sacred and historic site."
Jean Paul Lucat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The basilica is located in the Esquilino district. You can reach it by metro (Line A, Vittorio Emanuele station) or by various bus lines. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the Colosseum area.
Street parking in the Esquilino area can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach the basilica.
Yes, it's a feasible walk of about 15-20 minutes from the Colosseum, offering a chance to see more of the city.
Public transport is highly recommended. Metro Line A to Vittorio Emanuele station is a convenient option.
Yes, it's well-served by public transport, making it easy to incorporate into your Rome itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main basilica is generally free. However, there might be a small fee for specific exhibits or areas, like the museum or crypt. It's always good to check their official website or inquire upon arrival.
The basilica is typically open daily from around 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but hours can vary. It's advisable to confirm the current opening times before your visit.
While the basilica itself is free, access to certain relic displays or chapels might involve a small donation or fee.
Yes, the basilica is usually open on Sundays, but it's wise to check for any special Mass schedules that might affect visitor access.
Information on guided tours isn't always readily available online. You might be able to arrange one on-site or find local tour operators that include it in their Rome packages.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the relics of the True Cross, the Chapel of St. Helena with its mosaics, and the ancient earth brought from Jerusalem. +1
Absolutely, especially if you're interested in Christian history and relics. It offers a unique spiritual and historical experience.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the basilica, its chapels, and the relics.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos, especially in areas with relics or during services.
The basilica was built on earth brought from the Holy Land by Saint Helena, making it a symbolic 'Holy Land' in Rome.
📸 📸 Photography
The Chapel of St. Helena with its golden mosaics is a highlight. The facade and courtyard also offer good photo opportunities.
Photography of the relics is often restricted to protect them. Always look for signs or ask staff for permission.
Yes, flash photography is usually prohibited, and some areas may not allow any photography at all.
Morning light can be beautiful, especially if you can capture the exterior or the courtyard. Inside, lighting conditions vary.
A wide-angle lens is useful for the interior spaces. A good low-light camera or phone will help capture details in dimmer areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's a place of worship, so encourage respectful behavior. The basilica is generally quiet, making it a good spot for a calmer experience amidst busy sightseeing.🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
+1 The Chapel of St. Helena is particularly revered.🏛️ History Buffs
+1 The 16th-century mosaics in the Chapel of St. Helena are also a significant artistic and historical element. It's a site that offers a glimpse into early Christian Rome and the veneration of relics.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Relics of Santa Croce
These relics were brought to Rome by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, in the 4th century. She famously traveled to the Holy Land and is credited with discovering the True Cross. Her efforts to preserve and transport these sacred artifacts to Rome established the basilica's enduring significance as a repository of Christian heritage.
When visiting, take your time to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on the history associated with these powerful relics. Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and a highlight of their trip to Rome.
A 'Holy Land' Foundation
+1This practice was initiated by Saint Helena, who sought to create sacred spaces in Rome that mirrored the holy sites of Jerusalem. By incorporating the actual soil from places like Mount Calvary, she aimed to bring a tangible piece of the Holy Land to the faithful in Rome. This act of devotion and preservation makes the basilica a symbolic pilgrimage site.
+1Walking through the basilica, one can feel this connection to Jerusalem. The architecture and the very ground beneath your feet serve as a constant reminder of its origins, offering a unique spiritual journey for visitors who cannot travel to the Holy Land itself.
The Chapel of Saint Helena
The chapel is particularly famous for its 16th-century mosaic that adorns the vault. Created based on a design by Baldassarre Peruzzi, the golden mosaic depicts scenes and figures relevant to the basilica's history and its sacred relics. The artistry and historical significance of this mosaic make it a focal point of the chapel.
Visiting the Chapel of Saint Helena offers a more intimate and ancient experience within the basilica. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the art and history that have been preserved for centuries.
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