Santa Maria in Campitelli Rome
A breathtaking Baroque ex voto church in Rome, housing a miraculous icon and adorned with masterpieces by Roman Baroque painters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Santa Maria in Campitelli Rome
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Baroque ex voto church in Rome, housing a miraculous icon and adorned with masterpieces by Roman Baroque painters.
"Stumbled upon this stunning church while walking on Rome. The church it was built between 1659 and 1667..."
Stumble Upon Serenity
Many visitors discover this church by chance while exploring nearby sites like the Pantheon. Embrace the serendipity! :walking:
Admire the Artistry
Take time to appreciate the stunning Baroque artwork, especially the altar and the side chapel paintings. :frame_photo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miraculous Icon of Our Lady
High Altar
The 11th-century silver-gilt icon of Our Lady in the Portico, believed to have halted a plague, is the heart of this ex voto church.
Baroque Facade
Exterior
Admire the striking two-story travertine facade with its bold vertical lines and large, integrated columns, a signature of Baroque architecture.
Art-Filled Side Chapels
Interior
Explore chapels adorned with works by renowned Baroque painters like Baciccia and Luca Giordano, showcasing the church's rich artistic heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Baroque Bliss
A Gem Near Major Sites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Stumble Upon Serenity
Many visitors discover this church by chance while exploring nearby sites like the Pantheon. Embrace the serendipity! :walking:
Admire the Artistry
Take time to appreciate the stunning Baroque artwork, especially the altar and the side chapel paintings. :frame_photo:
Quiet Contemplation
This church offers a peaceful escape from the bustling Roman streets. Enjoy the quiet beauty. :pray:
Baroque Masterpiece
Experience the grandeur of Roman Baroque architecture and art in this lesser-known gem. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Stumble Upon Serenity
Many visitors discover this church by chance while exploring nearby sites like the Pantheon. Embrace the serendipity! :walking:
Admire the Artistry
Take time to appreciate the stunning Baroque artwork, especially the altar and the side chapel paintings. :frame_photo:
Quiet Contemplation
This church offers a peaceful escape from the bustling Roman streets. Enjoy the quiet beauty. :pray:
Baroque Masterpiece
Experience the grandeur of Roman Baroque architecture and art in this lesser-known gem. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Santa Maria in Campitelli for its breathtaking Baroque beauty, stunning artwork, and peaceful atmosphere, often discovering it as a delightful surprise. While its grandeur is widely appreciated, some note it's less crowded than major basilicas, making it a serene escape.
"Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under a local Roman title of hers, Our Lady in the Portico, the church is a magnificent baroque ex voto: Pope Alexander VII made it build on the site of a previous church dedicated to Santa Maria in Campitelli as a shrine for a small ancient icon of Our Lady that was believed by many people to have miraculously halted a terrible plague epidemic in 1656. The project was entrusted to Carlo Rainaldi, a pupil of Bernini: the pope laid the first stone on 29 September 1660 and granted the Madonna the title of Romanae Portus Securitatis. On 14 January 1662, the icon was transported to the new temple still under construction.The two-storey façade is built of travertine, and is dominated by strong vertical lines. This effect is achieved by incorporating large columns in the round into the façade, instead of decorating it with pilasters or semi-columns as is usual with Baroque churches. The dome is tiled with square tiles and rests on a low cylindrical drum. The structure ends with an elegant Baroque lantern, characterized by eight richly decorated scrolls and a ball finial.The rather complex plan is made up of two distinct elements, the first being a nave with two large transepts forming a Greek cross and the second a square sanctuary with a semi-circular apse and a dome. The whole draws attention to the splendour of the shrine over the high altar, designed by Rainaldi and made by Giovanni Antonio De Rossi with the collaboration of Ettore Ferrata. The icon over the altar is a precious work of silver-gilt and champlevé enamel, probably from the 11th century. The side chapels house works by the major Roman Baroque painters: Sebastiano Conca, Giovanni Battista Gaulli (known as Il Baciccia) and Luca Giordano. In the nearby cloister it is possible to see part of the basement of the Temple of Apollo Sosianus."
Misiu martino
"Artwork on the altar is amazing. Leaves you speechless. Really nice to see and enjoy the beautiful work"
Claudia Racz
"The Chiesa di Santa Maria in Portico is a beautiful yet lesser-known Baroque church, a stone throw from the Teatro di Marcello. Originally founded in the 6th century, it was rebuilt in the 17th century under the direction of architect Carlo Rainaldi, who gave it its impressive facade. The church is dedicated to a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, known as the Madonna in Portico, which was believed to have saved the city from a plague in the 6th century. The church's interior is beautiful: richly decorated with works of art that reflect the church’s devotion to Mary and many small, but decorative chapels, many with art and sculpture. The church is within a few minutes walk from a number of busy places, including Bocca della Veritas, Tiber Island, Piazza Venezia and the Jewish quarter, so very easy to add a quick visit to the itinerary !"
D. M.C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria in Campitelli is centrally located in Rome, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by walking from major landmarks like the Pantheon or the Teatro di Marcello. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
Yes, it's very close to popular sites such as the Pantheon, Bocca della Verità, Tiber Island, Piazza Venezia, and the Jewish Quarter, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
Many visitors find it by simply wandering through the charming streets of Rome. It's often described as a delightful discovery.
Parking in this central Rome area can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city center.
If your hotel is in the historic center of Rome, it's likely within walking distance. Check a map for the most convenient route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Santa Maria in Campitelli is typically free. It's a functioning church, so donations are appreciated.
Opening hours can vary, but churches in Rome are generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or look for signs upon arrival.
There is no admission fee to enter the church. Visitors are welcome to explore its beauty and art.
Yes, churches are usually open on Sundays, though services may affect visiting hours. It's advisable to confirm if you plan to attend a specific service.
While official tours might not be readily available, many private guides include this church in their Rome itineraries. You can also explore independently.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside churches in Rome, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially during services.
The high altar with the miraculous icon, the richly decorated side chapels, and the impressive Baroque facade are prime photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The travertine facade is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and looks stunning in photos, especially during the golden hour.
Drone photography is generally restricted in most of Rome's historic center, especially around religious sites. Always check local regulations.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful light for photography, highlighting the architectural details of the facade and interior.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, the miraculous icon of Our Lady in the Portico, and the exquisite artwork within its chapels.
The church houses works by prominent Baroque painters like Sebastiano Conca, Giovanni Battista Gaulli (Il Baciccia), and Luca Giordano.
Compared to some of Rome's more famous churches, Santa Maria in Campitelli is often described as quiet and peaceful, offering a serene experience.
The church is a magnificent example of Roman Baroque architecture, designed by Carlo Rainaldi.
Yes, part of the basement of the Temple of Apollo Sosianus can be seen in the nearby cloister.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Encourage kids to spot specific details in the paintings or count the columns on the facade. Its proximity to other family-friendly sites like the Mouth of Truth makes it an easy stop. Remember to keep voices low and respect the sacred nature of the space.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tip: Combine your visit with other free attractions nearby, like exploring the exterior of the Teatro di Marcello or walking across Tiber Island. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in a nearby piazza, saving on dining costs.
🎨 Art & History Buffs
Tip: Take your time to study the details of the high altar and the side chapels. Researching the artists beforehand can enhance your appreciation of the masterpieces on display.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baroque Masterpiece of Carlo Rainaldi
The interior plan is equally impressive, featuring a nave and two large transepts forming a Greek cross, leading to a square sanctuary and a semi-circular apse. This layout masterfully draws attention to the high altar, the focal point of the church. The entire design emphasizes splendor and devotion, reflecting the Baroque era's theatrical and emotional style. Visitors often remark on the church's elegant proportions and the harmonious integration of its architectural elements.
Beyond its architectural merit, the church holds significant historical and religious importance. It houses a small, ancient icon of Our Lady, known as the Madonna in Portico, which was believed to have miraculously halted a devastating plague epidemic in 1656. This miraculous event is central to the church's identity as an ex voto, a shrine built in fulfillment of a sacred promise.
Artistic Treasures Within
The high altar itself is a masterpiece, designed by Rainaldi and executed by Giovanni Antonio De Rossi with collaboration from Ettore Ferrata. It features the precious 11th-century icon of Our Lady, a work of silver-gilt and champlevé enamel that is central to the church's devotion. The artwork here is often described as leaving visitors speechless due to its intricate detail and historical significance.
Visitors consistently praise the quality and beauty of the artwork found throughout the church. The combination of architectural grandeur and artistic richness makes Santa Maria in Campitelli a must-see for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in the religious art of the Baroque period.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit