Santa Maria del Popolo Rome
An art lover's paradise in Piazza del Popolo, featuring Caravaggio's masterpieces and Raphael's Chigi Chapel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better art viewing
Santa Maria del Popolo Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better art viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An art lover's paradise in Piazza del Popolo, featuring Caravaggio's masterpieces and Raphael's Chigi Chapel.
"A feast for the eyes with incredible works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael."
📧 Email for Access
Confirm opening hours or special access by emailing the church directly: info@santamariadelpopolo.it .
🎨 Focus on Art
Seek out churches with Caravaggio paintings not found in galleries .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Caravaggio's Masterpieces
Cerasi Chapel
Witness Caravaggio's dramatic 'Conversion of Saul' and 'Crucifixion of Saint Peter'.

Chigi Chapel
Right transept
Designed by Raphael, featuring Bernini's stunning sculptures and vibrant frescoes.
Bernini's Architectural Touch
Admire Bernini's elegant restoration and contributions throughout the basilica.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Art & Serenity
Navigating Rome's Hidden Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📧 Email for Access
Confirm opening hours or special access by emailing the church directly: info@santamariadelpopolo.it.
🎨 Focus on Art
Seek out churches with Caravaggio paintings not found in galleries.
🚶♀️ Explore Piazza del Popolo
Combine your visit with exploring the beautiful Piazza del Popolo.
🤫 Respect the Silence
Remember it's an active place of worship; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Tips
from all over the internet
📧 Email for Access
Confirm opening hours or special access by emailing the church directly: info@santamariadelpopolo.it.
🎨 Focus on Art
Seek out churches with Caravaggio paintings not found in galleries.
🚶♀️ Explore Piazza del Popolo
Combine your visit with exploring the beautiful Piazza del Popolo.
🤫 Respect the Silence
Remember it's an active place of worship; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the profound artistic masterpieces within Santa Maria del Popolo, particularly the works of Caravaggio and the architectural brilliance of Raphael and Bernini. While the art is universally praised, some travelers have experienced unexpected closures, making pre-visit confirmation advisable.
"The Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome is a stunning and historically rich church that my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed visiting. Built in the late 15th century on the site of a feared tomb of Emperor Nero—where legend held his spirit lingered—it was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV to exorcise the area and replace the haunted tree with a sacred structure.
The basilica is a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art, most notably housing two Caravaggio masterpieces: The Conversion of Saint Paul and The Crucifixion of Saint Peter, both displayed in the Cerasi Chapel. The church also features works by Raphael, Bernini, Pinturicchio, and Bramante, making it an extraordinary display of artistic genius. Among its sacred relics are bones of several martyrs, including Saint Valerian and Saint Maximus, as well as a fragment of the Holy Cross.
The interior chapels are each unique and richly adorned, particularly the Chigi Chapel, designed by Raphael and later completed by Bernini. A visit to this basilica is both spiritually and artistically rewarding, offering a window into centuries of Roman devotion and creativity."
Kirk Belmont
"Note the opening hours as I came in the afternoon but it was not opened. Nonetheless, this basilica is one of the more important ones in this area. Do drop by in your visit at the Piazza del popolo along with the other basilicas and churches. There is a McDonald here for your rest, brunch or meals should you like."
Lucas Tan
"It is situated near the metro station. The interior is splendid. Paintings are fabulous. Pipe organs are nicely decorated."
Percy Chang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The basilica is located in Piazza del Popolo, easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line A to the 'Flaminio' station, which is just a short walk away. Buses also frequently stop in the piazza.
Yes, it's situated at the northern edge of the historic center, close to the Pincio Terrace for stunning city views and the Spanish Steps.
From Termini Station, take Metro Line A towards Battistini and alight at Flaminio. The journey is quick and direct.
It's a longer walk, approximately 45-60 minutes, but a scenic route through the city center. Alternatively, you can take a bus or the metro.
Street parking is very limited and expensive. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi. There are paid parking garages nearby, but they can be costly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main basilica is typically free. However, access to specific chapels or artworks might require a small fee or be part of a guided tour.
Opening hours can vary, and the church has been reported as unexpectedly closed.
It's best to check the official website or email the church (info@santamariadelpopolo.it) for the most up-to-date information.Generally, no separate fee is charged for viewing the Caravaggio paintings within the Cerasi Chapel. They are part of the basilica's main exhibition.
Yes, you can usually visit on Sundays, but be mindful of Mass times, as access to certain areas might be restricted during services.
Guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the art and history. Inquire at the church or look for local tour operators.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Caravaggio's 'Conversion of Saul' and 'Crucifixion of Saint Peter' in the Cerasi Chapel, and Raphael's design for the Chigi Chapel with Bernini's sculptures.
Allow at least 30-60 minutes to appreciate the main artworks and the basilica's architecture. If you're a serious art enthusiast, you might want more time.
Yes, local legends suggest it's haunted, possibly by Emperor Nero's ghost, adding a layer of intrigue to its history.
Photography is usually permitted, but without flash, to protect the artworks. Always check for signage or ask permission.
Piazza del Popolo is one of Rome's largest and most famous squares, historically serving as a gateway to the city and a site for public gatherings and executions.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cerasi Chapel with Caravaggio's paintings and the Chigi Chapel offer dramatic lighting and artistic compositions. The basilica's facade and the surrounding Piazza del Popolo are also great for exterior shots.
Tripods are generally not allowed inside churches to avoid obstructing other visitors and to protect the delicate environment. Check specific rules upon entry.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful natural light filtering into the basilica, enhancing the colors of the artworks. Early mornings are also good for fewer crowds.
While general photography is allowed, flash is usually prohibited to preserve the paintings. Some specific exhibits or areas might have stricter rules.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the interior. For the exterior, step back into Piazza del Popolo to get the full facade in your frame.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Treasures of Santa Maria del Popolo
The Chigi Chapel, designed by Raphael, is another artistic marvel. Although Raphael only completed the architectural framework and some stucco work, the chapel was later embellished by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Bernini added his signature dynamic sculptures, including the 'Habakkuk and the Angel' and 'Elijah and the Angel', as well as the tomb monuments, creating a harmonious blend of Raphael's design and Bernini's Baroque flair.
Beyond these famous chapels, the basilica itself is a testament to centuries of artistic patronage. You'll find works by Annibale Carracci, Lorenzo Lotto, and Pinturicchio, making every corner of Santa Maria del Popolo a discovery for art lovers. The church's rich artistic heritage makes it a crucial stop for anyone interested in Italian art history.
Navigating Access and Potential Closures
When planning your visit, consider that some areas, particularly the chapels housing the most famous artworks, might have limited access or specific viewing windows. Redditors have shared experiences of finding the church closed, underscoring the importance of pre-trip communication. If you're traveling specifically to see the Caravaggio paintings, as many do, confirming their accessibility is paramount.
For those seeking a more in-depth experience, local tour guides often have the most current information on access and can arrange visits to ensure you see the highlights. Alternatively, exploring the surrounding Piazza del Popolo offers its own charm, even if the basilica's interior access is temporarily restricted.
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