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Chiesa di Santa Maria del Popolo - A legend had it that the site where the church was eventually erected was haunted by the ghost of Nero, the Roman Emperor. On his burial ground had grown a bewitched walnut tree full of crows. To put an end to this myth, Pope Paschal II in 1099 ordered the tree to be cut down and commissioned a Romanesque chapel to be built instead. In 1513, various of the most influential artists of the period, like Pinturicchio, Raphael, Caravaggio and Bernini were requested to decorate the walls and ceilings of the temple. Santa Maria del Popolo’s decoration is unlike any other church in Rome.
Among the beautiful art work found in the church, it is worth highlighting the Chapel Cerasi, which houses two canvases by Caravaggio from 1600, and the Chapel Chigi, built and decorated by Raphael.
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is one of these that are definitely worth visiting, not because of its structure or its façade, but because of its impressively decorated chapels.
- Entrance to historic churches, including Santa Maria della Pace, Sant’Agostino, Santa Maria del Popolo, and San Luigi dei Francesi
- Exclusive access to a private English-speaking tour escort
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off with luxury transport and private chauffeur
- Experience the insights of a private professional guide
- Food and Beverages;
- Gratuities (optional)
Over 400 years after his passing, the ingenious artworks of the 16th-century maestro, Michelangelo Merisi (1571-1610), commonly referred to as Caravaggio, still command attention. His paintings are a blend of gritty, realistic portrayal of the human condition, both physical and emotional, duly complemented with the dramatic use of chiaroscuro. Approximately 25 of Caravaggio’s masterpieces are housed in Rome today, accessible to the public. Several can be found in churches while others form part of renowned art assortments in palaces and museums.
Raffaello Sanzio, popularly known as Raphael, was a distinguished Italian artist and architect during the High Renaissance period. He is often considered part of the traditional trinity of master artists of that era, alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Despite dying at the age of 37, Raphael’s remarkable productivity and large workshop resulted in a substantial body of work. While many of his pieces can be found at the Vatican, several are displayed in churches too.
- Child rate applies only when shared with 2 paying adults
- Wheelchair available on request. Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
- Dress code required to enter in churches: knees and shoulders must be covered
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
