Churches of Rome

A View of the Stunning St. Peter's Basilica1

Over 900 churches cover ancient Rome, a city rich with remarkable history and awe-inspiring art. Each religious site, most of which are of Roman Catholic origin, is magnificent and unique. Visitors can gaze in awe at eye-catching architecture and oversized marble columns, and admire impressive statues and beautiful, hand-painted masterpieces that decorate the ceilings and date back thousands of years. The history and background of each church is incredible, and all boast a fascinating story. When travelling to Rome, it may be useful for tourists to become familiar with churches before visiting in order to fully appreciate their grandeur.

ST. PETER'S BASILICA/THE VATICAN (BASILICA DI SAN PIETRO IN VATICANO)

History
One of the most famous and extraordinary cathedrals in the world, St. Peter's Basilica is situated in Vatican City, a walled enclave within the city of Rome. The tiny city-state is a soverign territory ruled by the pope. Taking up a whopping 2.3 ha (5.7 acres) of the Vatican's total size of 44 ha (108.7 acres), and holding a capacity of 60,000 people, this massive basilica is an absolute must-see. The original church on the site, now known as Old St. Peter's, was built by Emperor Constantine I between the years 326 and 333 AD. However, when the first cathedral began to fall into ruin, construction began on the current basilica. Work started in 1506 and wasn't completed until more than a century later in 1626.

The cathedral has become one of the holiest sites in the Catholic tradition, as it is said that the original basilica was founded on the spot where St. Peter, one of the Twelve Apostles who is considered by many to be the first Bishop of Rome (or the first pope), was crucifed and buried. The martyr's tomb is believed to have been discovered deep in the cathedral's crypt, which is said to date back to as early as the 2nd century, around Christmastime in 1950. The presence of the tomb has caused St. Peter's to be a popular pilgrimage site throughout the ages.

Famed Italian Renaissance painter Michelangelo designed the cathedral's enormous dome. With a diameter reaching 42.3 m (138.8 ft), the cupola itself is almost as large as the Pantheon. The architechture is immaculate and breathtaking, giving visitors yet another reason to explore the famous basilica.

What to see
The sights are endless at St. Peter's. Sculptures, marble statues, ancient paintings and beautifully decorated tombs crowd into every nook and cranny in the cathedral. Michelangelo's marble sculpture Pieta is located here between the alter of St. Sebastien and the Holydoor, near the basilica's entrance. Hailed as one of the artist's greatest masterpieces, the statue portrays the body of Jesus lying in the arms of His mother, Mary, after being crucified. Created with such skill and detail, the glorious statue must be seen to believed.

Situated in the northwestern corner of the basilica stands St. Peter Enthroned, a statue sculpted by Arnolfo di Cambio, dating back to the fifth century. The foot of the statue has been worn down by the millions of people who have kissed and laid hands on it throughout the centuries.

Over 100 tombs are situated in the basilica, the vast majority of which are contained in the Vatican grotto, the crypt under the church. The chamber holds the remains of t 91 popes including the recently deceased John Paul II. Ancient Catholic tradition holds that St. Peter is also buried here, his tomb below the baldachin and altar.

Although it is not part of St. Peter's Basilica, the famous Sistine Chapel is located within the walls of Vatican City in Apostolic Palace. If visiting St. Peter's Basilica, it would be a shame to miss this chapel, which is the official residence of the pope. Perhaps best known for its incredible ceiling painstakingly painted by Michaelangelo in the early 16th century, the walls of the Sistine Chapel feature great works by Renaissance artists like Bottichelli and Perugino.

The Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani), also within Vatican City walls, displays art work from the Roman Catholic Church's extensive collection. There is so much to see, it is almost overwhelming. Millions tour the museum each year to view the immense and impressive collection. Keep in mind that on the last Sunday of each month, the Vatican Museum is open to the public free of charge, so expect to wait in line for hours.

Location
St. Peter's Basilica is located in Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City. It can be accessed by foot, bus or train. Take Metroline A Ottaviano to get here. Note that there is a strict dress code prohibiting bare shoulders for both men and women.

BASILICA OF ST JOHN LATERAN (SAN GIOVANNI LATERANO)

History
Most commonly known as "The Mother of All Churches", The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the most prestigious basilica in the Catholic Church, rivaling over the Vatican importance. The church dates back to the beginning of the fourth century, and is thought to have been built as a palace

	The Majestic St. John's Lateran2

before being confiscated by tyrant emperor Nero. Eventually taken over by Holy Roman Emperor Constantine, the palace was given to the Bishop of Rome, and being the first Christian church in the city, it became the seat of the popes. The Basilica of St. John Lateran was later dedicated to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. It is the oldest church standing in Rome, however it has been rebuilt several times by various popes, after being damaged and destroyed throughout the centuries by invasion, fires, and an earthquake.

What to see
Packed full of history and art, The Basilica of St. John Lateran is a stunning and memorable sight to see. In the former banquet area of the ancient church, preserved portions of an original mosaic line the famous halls.

Nearby, The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), consisting of twenty eight marble steps, is considered to be an important religious monument. Constantine's mother, Helena, brought the steps from Jerusalem to Rome in 326 AD. According to tradition, the stairs once lead to the prćtorium of Pontius Pilate, and were walked upon by Jesus during the time of His crucifix. Wood protects the marble, however there are sections cut out that display the marble as well as preserved blood stains that are said to be Jesus'. Travellers should remember that the Holy Steps can only be climbed on the knees, however there are alternative staircases on both sides for visitors to walk up. A private chapel can be found at the top.

There are six papal tombs inside the basilica. These include Alexander III, Sergius IV, Clement XII, Martin V, Innocent III and Leo XIII. Larger-than-life sculptures of the Twelve Apostles stand within the cathedral. These were completed in 1703, when Pope Clement XI encouraged a competition for completion of the carvings.

Location
The Basilica of St. John Lateran is conveniently located near the metro station of the same name. Within walking distance of the Colosseum, visitors can reach the basilica by following Via San Giovanni in Laterano. Bus routes are also available, take numbers 85, 87, 850 or 117 to get here.

THE PANTHEON

History

Constructed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, The Pantheon is the best preserved Roman building of its age, built over 1800 years ago. Originally a temple for Greek gods, the building was converted to a Christian church in the early 7th century after being gifted to Pope Boniface IV. The only light source in the Pantheon is a circular opening at the top of the dome, referred to as "The Great Eye".

	The Ancient Pantheon at Dusk3

What to see
There are three rows of eight columns at the front of the building, each stretching to a diameter of 1.5 m (4 ft). The tombs of former Italian Monarchs are held here, as are those of architects and artists such as famous Renaissance master Raphael. Visitors to the Pantheon can view the painter's ornate tomb, as well as remarkable architecture and artwork that spans the centuries, especially on Catholic days of obligation.

Location
The Pantheon is located amongst the history center of the city bordering Piazza della Rotonda-a plaza with a central water fountain. Piazza Navone, one of Rome's most famous squares, is also nearby.

ST. PETER IN CHAINS (SAN PIETRO IN VINCOLI)

	Statue of the Patron Saint Peter4

History
Dating back to the 5th century, St. Peter in Chains Basilica was built to house the chains that bound St. Peter while he was imprisoned in Jerusalem. The basilica underwent a number of renovations and rebuilding by Popes Adrian I, Sixtus IV and Julius II.

What to see
One of the main attractions at the cathedral are the chains from which the church takes its name. The shackles that bound St. Peter are found in a shrine under the main alter of the church, and are visible to the public.

St. Peter in Chains is actually most famous for its statue of Moses, yet another of Michelangelo's creations. Moses stands at an impressive height of 7 ft (2.1 m) and is the centerpiece for the tableau for the incomplete tomb of Pope Julius II. Sculptures of Jacob's wives surround the imposing piece. A low fence protects the display, so this work of art can continue to be appreciated for years to come.

Location
Close to the Colosseum, St. Peter in Chains is located right off Via degli Annibaldi. If choosing to ride the Metro, use V. Cavour line.

OUR LADY OF THE CONCEPTION OF THE CAPUCHINS (SANTA MARIA DELLA CONCEZION DEI CAPPUCCINI)

	Fountain at Piazza Barberini5

History
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of the Conception of the Capuchins was designed by a Capuchin and architect named Michele da Bergamo. Building took place between 1626 and 1631, and was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII, the brother of Capuchin friar Antonio Barberini. The pope blessed the church's first stone in 1626.

What to see
The décor of this church is interesting to say the least. Arrangements of over 4,000 bones from deceased friars are decoratively displayed amongst the walls. If the sight of human bones is not appealing, there is a quiet area for prayer in the mass chapel, the only area that is bone-free. Visitors hoping to find something a little more macabre can explore one or more of the crypts. The Crypt of Resurrection, Crypt of Sculls, Crypt of Pelvises, Crypt of Leg and Thigh Bones, and the Crypt of Three Skeletons have all been carefully constructed within the church.

Location
Our Lady of the Conception of the Capuchins is situated at Via Veneto, near Piazza Barberini. To get here, visitors can take Metro Line A: Barberini, or bus 492 or 62 to Piazza Barberini.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF:

1. A View of the Stunning St. Peter's Basilica; Rome, RM, Italy
2. The Majestic St. John's Lateran; Rome, RM, Italy
3. The Ancient Pantheon at Dusk; Rome, RM, Italy
4. Statue of the Patron Saint Peter; Rome, RM, Italy
5. Fountain at Piazza Barberini; Rome, RM, Italy