Church of Sant'Andrea
A breathtaking Baroque basilica in Rome, Sant'Andrea della Valle boasts a magnificent dome and stunning frescoes, offering a serene artistic escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Church of Sant'Andrea
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Baroque basilica in Rome, Sant'Andrea della Valle boasts a magnificent dome and stunning frescoes, offering a serene artistic escape.
"A hidden gem in Rome, Sant'Andrea della Valle offers a serene escape with its magnificent Baroque art and architecture."
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember it's an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. The scale and detail are incredible!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Magnificent Dome
Central Nave
Carlo Maderno's dome is the second largest in Rome, a breathtaking feat of Baroque engineering and artistry.
Strozzi Chapel Frescoes
Strozzi Chapel
Marvel at the vibrant frescoes by Francesco del Cossa, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis Xavier.
Chapel of the Annunciation
Chapel of the Annunciation
Admire the stunning Baroque altar and the beautiful Annunciation painting by Domenichino.
Relics of Saint Anthony Maria Pucci
Main Altar
A place of devotion, housing the body of the canonized Saint Anthony Maria Pucci.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Rome's Baroque Gem
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember it's an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. The scale and detail are incredible!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Located near Piazza Navona, combine your visit with other Roman treasures.
✨ Look Up!
Don't forget to admire the ceiling frescoes and the impressive dome.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember it's an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. The scale and detail are incredible!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Located near Piazza Navona, combine your visit with other Roman treasures.
✨ Look Up!
Don't forget to admire the ceiling frescoes and the impressive dome.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Church of Sant'Andrea della Valle for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly its magnificent dome and the rich frescoes within. Many describe it as a peaceful, often overlooked gem in Rome's historic center, offering a serene escape and a chance to admire incredible art without overwhelming crowds.
"There are some interesting paintings inside."
Yami Yume
"Again very interested .. worth popping in ..."
Russell
"The Parish of Sant'Andrea in Viareggio stands as a symbol of historical and spiritual importance in the heart of the city. This Catholic church is a focal point for the local community and a place of interest for visitors seeking artistic beauty and spirituality.
The sacred building stands out for its majestic architecture and its interiors rich in history and art. The majestic columns, frescoes, and priceless works of art that adorn the interior spaces lend the church an aura of magnificence and sacredness. The presence within the church of the altar containing the relics of Saint Anthony Maria Pucci adds a further element of meaning and devotion.
The church's façade, embellished with ornamental details and a welcoming portico, invites worshippers and visitors to enter and explore its beauty. Once inside, one finds oneself immersed in an atmosphere of serenity and sacredness, ideal for prayer and contemplation. Regular religious services help keep the community's faith and spirituality alive.
Parish staff welcome visitors with warmth and helpfulness, offering information on the church's history and traditions. Thanks to its central location, the Parish of Sant'Andrea is easily accessible and represents a place of refuge and peace amidst the chaos of daily life.
Ultimately, the Parish of Sant'Andrea in Viareggio is a place of great beauty and significance, definitely worth a visit to admire its architecture, its works of art, and to experience a moment of spirituality and contemplation."
Ciro Magliulo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of Sant'Andrea della Valle is centrally located in Rome, easily accessible by public transport. You can take buses that stop near Corso Vittorio Emanuele or Corso Rinascimento. It's also a pleasant walk from major landmarks like Piazza Navona. 
Yes, it's situated in the heart of Rome's historic center, making it convenient to visit alongside other popular sites like Piazza Navona and the Pantheon.
From Termini Station, you can take a bus (e.g., routes 64 or 40) towards the city center and get off at a stop near Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service is a quicker option.
Parking in central Rome can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city center.
Walking from the Colosseum to Sant'Andrea della Valle is possible but takes about 30-40 minutes. It's a scenic route through historic Rome, but consider public transport if you prefer to save time and energy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Church of Sant'Andrea della Valle is typically free. It's a functioning church, so donations are appreciated but not required.
Opening hours can vary, but the church is generally open daily from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check for any specific closures or event schedules before your visit.
Generally, there is no separate admission fee for the main church or its chapels. Access to the dome itself is usually not permitted for visitors.
You can visit during mass, but it's important to be respectful and quiet. Some areas might be restricted during services.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, you can often find information leaflets or join general Rome tours that include this basilica.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The church is a prime example of Baroque architecture, known for its grandeur, dramatic use of light and shadow, and ornate decoration.
Key artworks include the frescoes in the Strozzi Chapel by Francesco del Cossa, the Annunciation by Domenichino, and the impressive dome frescoes by Mattia Preti.
While the church itself is not a separate UNESCO site, it is located within the historic center of Rome, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The dome, designed by Carlo Maderno, is the second largest in Rome after St. Peter's Basilica and is a significant achievement of Baroque dome construction.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's essential to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services. Always check for posted signs regarding photography rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the nave looking up at the dome, the chapels with their detailed frescoes, and the grand altar.
Yes, the exterior, especially the facade and its setting in Piazza Vidoni, offers good photographic potential.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful natural light filtering into the church, enhancing the colors of the frescoes and artwork.
While generally allowed, avoid using flash as it can damage artwork and disturb worshippers. Be mindful of ongoing services.
A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the interior and the details of the frescoes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to prepare children beforehand about the importance of being quiet and respectful inside. The church's central location also makes it an easy addition to a family's Rome itinerary, perhaps as a peaceful interlude between more active sightseeing. Consider bringing a small sketchbook for older children to draw their favorite parts of the artwork.
🎨 Art & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Take your time to explore the various chapels, each with its unique artistic contributions. The Strozzi Chapel and the Chapel of the Annunciation are particularly noteworthy. The church's relatively less crowded status compared to other Roman basilicas allows for a more in-depth appreciation of the intricate details and the overall artistic vision.
+1⛪️ Religious & Spiritual Seekers
The beauty of the church's interior, combined with its history, creates an environment conducive to spiritual reflection. Attending a service, if your timing allows, can offer a deeper connection to the living faith community that worships here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baroque Masterpiece: Architecture and Art
+2Inside, the church is a treasure trove of art. The nave frescoes, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Andrew, were completed by Mattia Preti. The Strozzi Chapel boasts vibrant frescoes by Francesco del Cossa, and the Chapel of the Annunciation features a stunning altar and the famous Annunciation painting by Domenichino. These works, along with numerous other sculptures and altarpieces, showcase the artistic brilliance of the period and contribute to the church's overwhelming sense of splendor and devotion.
+2Beyond its artistic merit, Sant'Andrea della Valle holds spiritual significance as the mother church of the Theatine order and houses the relics of Saint Anthony Maria Pucci. Its location in the heart of Rome makes it an accessible yet often overlooked gem, offering visitors a profound encounter with Baroque art and Roman religious history.
A Hidden Gem in Rome's Historic Center
+1Many travelers are surprised by the sheer scale and artistic richness of the basilica, especially its dome and the detailed frescoes that adorn its chapels. The Baroque architecture creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring atmosphere, making it a must-see for art and history enthusiasts. It's a place where you can truly contemplate the artistry and feel the history without the overwhelming crowds often found at more famous churches.
+1Its status as a minor basilica and the general seat for the Theatines means it remains an active place of worship, adding to its authentic charm. This blend of artistic magnificence, spiritual significance, and relative obscurity makes Sant'Andrea della Valle a highly recommended stop for anyone looking to discover the deeper layers of Rome's cultural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit