Rome: A Catholic’s Guide to Rome, the “Eternal City” and nearby Catholic places of interest
What can we say about Rome that has not been said a thousand times before? No where else can you find so many reminders of the history of the Catholic Church and so many beautiful churches and monuments.
Much of Rome is easy to walk: many of these locations are within 10-20 blocks of one another, so if you pace yourself (perhaps stop for a cup of cappuccino…or a gelato….along the way) you can easily visit many of these places on foot. Of course if you are with an organized tour they will probably provide your own private transportation. Check in advance to find out–especially if you have mobility problems–but don’t let that keep you away. And, of course, many organized tours have some free time which allows you to head off to places not included in that particular tour.
Whether traveling on your own or with a group, we recommend you have a map to orient yourself to the city. Even if you are with a tour group, it is nice to know the layout of the city.
For example, you might find that the hotel in which you are staying is just a few blocks from Saint Peter’s Square and you can get out and explore on your own after dinner. The “City Wise” maps are great–waterproof and easy to fold and read.
For help finding your way around, we suggest the “Little Black Book of Rome” It is organized by location rather than alphabetically like so many guide books, so it can help you plan your daily itinerary.
And, of course, Rome can be a starting point for many other cities in Italy. And we recommend traveling by train: Italian trains are fast, clean and take you right to the heart of town. Get train & bus schedules, see fares & buy tickets here
Below are some of the most notable Catholic places of interest in Rome
Note: Our page on Rome also includes Vatican City, which is actually its own country, despite being within the city limits of Rome and is the smallest sovereign state in the world, both by area and by population. So, for example, when you are in Saint Peter’s you are not in Rome..you are not even in Italy…you are in Vatican City which is part of the Vatican City State..
♦ Symbol indicates one of the Seven Station Pilgrimage Churches of Rome. This is a tradition begun by Saint Philip Neri in the 16th Century & continuing on today.
Note: There are two main categories of basilicas: major basilicas and minor basilicas. The major basilicas, also known as “papal basilicas,” hold the highest rank and are all located in Rome, or its vicinity, each with significant historical, spiritual, and architectural importance. Other Basilicas throughout the world, despite their importance, are technically “Minor” Basilicas although that does not necessarily appear in the name of the Basilica.
There are four major Basilicas in Rome:
♦ Basilica of Saint John Lateran: The Pope’s own church
♦ Basilica of Saint Mary Major: magnificent artwork and home to the statue of Salus Populi Romani
♦ Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls: tomb of Paul the Apostle, Pope John XIII and others
♦ Saint Peter’s Basilica: World’s largest church, tomb of Saint Peter
The “Hidden” Churches of Rome:
There are lesser-known, “hidden” Catholic churches that offer a quieter, yet equally profound experience. These churches offer a mix of historical depth, artistic brilliance, and a chance to step away from Rome’s bustle.
They’re “hidden”…. not because they’re secret…. but because they’re overshadowed by the city’s more famous landmarks. Visiting them requires a bit of curiosity and effort—some have limited hours or require advance planning—but the reward is a deeper connection to Rome’s layered Catholic soul.
These hidden gems often boast rich history, stunning art, and a sense of intimacy that the more famous basilicas can’t always provide. Below are some of the most remarkable “hidden” Catholic churches in Rome worth seeking out.
Santa Cecilia in Trastevere
In the charming Trastevere district, this 9th-century church honors St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music. Beneath the altar lies Stefano Maderno’s poignant statue of her incorrupt body, while excavations reveal a 2nd-century Roman house, possibly hers. The courtyard and crypt add to its hidden allure, often missed by visitors distracted by Trastevere’s lively streets.
San Clemente Basilica
Tucked just a few blocks from the Colosseum, San Clemente is a three-layered marvel of history. The current 12th-century basilica sits atop a 4th-century church, which itself was built over a 1st-century pagan temple dedicated to Mithras. You can descend through these layers, witnessing Rome’s evolution from paganism to Christianity firsthand. The upper level dazzles with a 12th-century mosaic of Jesus on a cross transforming into a living tree, while the underground mithraeum offers a haunting glimpse into pre-Christian worship. It’s not exactly secret, but its unassuming exterior and lack of tourist hordes make it feel hidden.
Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini
Near Piazza Barberini, this church is famous for its crypt, where the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars are arranged into macabre art—chandeliers, arches, and skeletal figures. Above ground, it’s a modest Baroque church with Caravaggio’s “St. Francis in Meditation.” The bone crypt steals the show, but the church itself is often bypassed by those not in the know.
Santa Maria in Cosmedin
Known for the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) in its portico, this 6th-century church in the Forum Boarium is more than a tourist gimmick. Its interior boasts a Cosmatesque floor, 8th-century frescoes, and a serene ambiance tied to its early Christian origins. The crowds focus on the mouth, leaving the church’s quiet beauty largely unexplored.
Basílica de Santa Práxedes
This 9th-century church is a hidden jewel of Byzantine art. Built by Pope Paschal I, it houses the breathtaking San Zeno Chapel, covered in glittering mosaics that rival those of Ravenna. It also contains a relic said to be the column of Jesus’ flagellation, adding to its spiritual weight. Its proximity to the major basilica Saint Mary Major overshadows it, yet its intimate beauty and quiet atmosphere make it a standout.
Santa Pudenziana
Nestled in the Monti neighborhood, Santa Pudenziana stakes a claim as one of Rome’s oldest churches, possibly dating back to the 2nd century when it was a house-church linked to Senator Pudens, a friend of St. Peter. The current structure, from the late 4th century, features Rome’s oldest Christian mosaic in its apse—a vivid depiction of Christ and the apostles from around 410 AD. Despite its historical significance, it’s often overlooked due to its modest façade and location off the main tourist paths.
Santi Quattro Coronati
Perched on the Caelian Hill, this fortified medieval basilica feels like a secret stronghold. Rebuilt after the 1084 Norman sack of Rome, it’s now run by Augustinian nuns. Inside, the Oratory of San Sylvester hides vivid 13th-century frescoes depicting the Donation of Constantine, while the Gothic Hall (Aula Gottica)—open only sporadically—stuns with its medieval artistry. Its thick walls and off-the-beaten-path location keep it under the radar.
Santa Maria in Palmis (Domine Quo Vadis)
Along the Appian Way, this tiny church marks the spot where, according to legend, St. Peter encountered Jesus while fleeing Rome and asked, “Domine, quo vadis?” (“Lord, where are you going?”). Jesus replied that he was heading to Rome to be crucified again, prompting Peter to return and face martyrdom. The church preserves what are said to be Jesus’ footprints, though the originals are at San Sebastiano nearby. Its small size and rural setting make it a hidden curiosity.
San Pietro in Vincoli (Saint Peter in Chains)
Though it houses Michelangelo’s “Moses,” this church on the Esquiline Hill remains less visited than Rome’s big hitters. Built in the 5th century to hold St. Peter’s chains, its understated exterior belies the artistic and historical riches within. The chains, said to have miraculously fused together, are displayed beneath the altar, making it a quiet pilgrimage site.
Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
Hidden in plain sight near Piazza della Repubblica, this church was carved out of the Baths of Diocletian by Michelangelo in his final architectural project. Its vast, unadorned exterior contrasts with a grand interior featuring a meridian line used to track time in Renaissance Rome. Its integration into ancient ruins keeps it off many tourist maps.
Some other interesting churches in Rome:
Basilica of Saint John of the Florentines (San Giovanni dei Fiorentini): tomb of Borromini, relic of St. Mary Magdeline
Basilica di Sant’Andrea delle Fratte: Conversion of Alphonse Ratisbonne, founder of the Congregation of Our Lady of Sion
Basilica of Sant’Agostino: skull of Saint Monica
Basilica of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls (Sant’ Agnese fuori le Mura): additional relics of Saint Agnes
Basilica of Saint Bartholomew: contains 6 chapels dedicated to the martyrs of the 20th century
Basilica of Saints Celso & Giuliano: Traditional Latin Mass (Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest)
Basilica of San Clemente: tombs of St. Clement & St. Cyrius
Basilica of Saint John at the Latin Gate: Miraculous event saving John the Apostlefrom being boiled alive.
♦ Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls: the tomb of Saint Lawrence
Basilica of Saint Maria sopra Minerva: tomb of Saint Catherine of Siena
Basilica of Saint Pancras (San Pancrazio): relic of Saint Pancras
Basilica of Saint Sabina (Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino): Mother church of the Dominican Order
Basilica of San Chrisogono: one of the original parish churches of Rome, tomb of Blessed Anna Maria Taigi
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo: Magnificent art by several Italian Masters, such as Raphael, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Caravaggio, Alessandro Algardi, Pinturicchio, Andrea Bregno, Guillaume de Marcillat and Donato Bramante.
♦ Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem: Despite the name, it is in Rome and has many holy relics
Basilica of Saint Mary in Cosmedin: Skull of St. Valentine and “Mouth of Truth”
Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli: statue of the Bambino Jesu
Our Lady of the Conception Capuchin Church: the church of the bones
Church of the Gesu: The Jesuit Church and home of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
Church of Saint Agnes in Agony;Located in Piazza Navona… Contains Skull of St. Agnes
Church of Saint Alphonsus Ligouri: Original image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Church of San Francesco a Ripa: cell where St. Francis slept, Bernini’s sculpture over tomb of Blessed Ludovica Albertoni
Church of Santa Maria Monticelli: (tomb of Saint César de Bus)
Church of Santa Maria in Vallicella: Tomb of St. Philip Neri
Church of Saint Mary Magdalene:Tomb of Saint Camillius
Church of Saint Cecilia in Trastevere
Church of Saint Egidio (Lay Catholic Association dedicated to social service)
Church of Santa Maria della Pace: Magnificent works of art plus the tomb of Saint Josemaría Escrivá, founder of Opus Dei
Church of Santa Susanna (Now closed..see St. Patricks Church below)
Church of Saint Paul of Tre Fontane : beheading of Saint Paul
Church of San Marcello al Corso: Miraculous crucifix paraded through Rome to stop the plague
Church of San Salvatore in Onda: Incorrupt body of Saint Vincent Pallotti (founder of the Pallatines)
Church of the Most Holy Trinity of Pilgrims (Chiesa della Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini): Latin Mass Parish (Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (FSSP)
Church of the Twelve Holy Apostles(relics of St. Philip & St. James the Younger)
Churches of the Roman Forum : some of the oldest churches in Rome
Domine Quo Vadis, or The Church of “Lord, Where are You Going?”
Saint Mary of Good Help in Castrense Amphitheater
Saint Peter in Chains:Displaying the chains that held Saint Peter when he was in prison
Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs : the steps Jesus climbed to be condemned in Jerusalem
Sanctuary of John Baptist de La Salle
♦ Sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love: Famous Marian Sanctuary and statue
The Pantheon (Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres): famous landmark, former Roman temple now a Catholic Church
Tre Fontaine Abbey (Three Fountains): Church of the Beheading of Saint Paul; Sanctuary of Our Lady of Revelation; Cistercian Abbey of Saint Vincent and Anastasias
National churches in Rome:
National churches today resulted from an ancient tradition where pilgrims gathered in certain churches in Rome or built churches of their own. These churches aided pilgrims by providing cheap lodging with free or inexpensive food.
Today most countries have a national church in Rome and pilgrims have an opportunity to hear Mass in their native language.
Regardless of your nationality, you should try to include some of them in your visit to Rome. Most have magnificent works of art, perhaps tombs of certain Popes or Saints, or other features that make them worthy of a visit no matter what your country of origin. Some of these churches might also be listed above.
Canada: Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament and the Canadian Martyrs
Ecuador: Church of Santa Maria en Villa (miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
France: Church of Saint Louis of the French: magnificent Baroque church with paintings by Carvaggio
Germany: Church of Santa Maria della Anima
Japan: Church of Santa Maria dell’Orto (St. Mary of the Garden)
Netherlands: Church of Michael and Magnus Two major relics: stone where Jesus was presented at the Temple in Jerusalem, which is used as the main altar of the church and the stone where Abraham bound Isaac.
Phillippines: Basilica of Saint Pudenziana
Poland: Church and Hospice of Saint Stanislaus Martyr
Slovakia: Church of San Girolamo della Carita (Saint Jerome of Charity) beautiful artwork; St. Jerome & St. Philp Neri lived here
Spain: Santa Maria in Monserrato degli Spagnoli (Holy Mary of Montserrat)
U.S.A.: American Parish in Rome: Church of Saint Patrick
Other Catholic places of interest in Rome:
Castel Sant’ Angleo: Where an angel appeared to a Pope and stopped the ravages of the Plague
Curia Generalizia dei Frati Minori Conventuali: Tomb of Elena Aiello
Mausoleum of Saint Helena Tomb of Saint Helena, mother of the Emperor Constantine I
Piazza Navona: one of the most interesting Piazzas in Rome & Church of St. Agnes in Agony
Saint Martha’s House (domus sanctae Marthe) guest house for clergy having business with the Holy See and temporary residence of members of the College of Cardinals while participating in a papal conclave to elect a new pope.
San Lorenzo Center for young people
The Lateran Apostolic Palace: Former Palace of the Pope
The Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory
Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel)
Vatican Gardens: visited by tens of thousands of people every year, is located within the Vatican walls, next to the Vatican Museums.
Verano Monumental Cemetery: tomb of Chiara Corbella Petrillo
Retreat Houses
Domus Australia For Australians visiting Rome
Villa Irlanda Roma: For Irish visitors to Rome
Catholic places of interest close to Rome:
Castel Gandolfo (Papal Summer Residence & Catholic Institute of Technology)
Tre Fontane Abbey: Beheading of Saint Paul; Our Lady of Revelation
Retreat center & wedding venue just outside Rome:
Palazzola: Former Franciscan Monastery near Castel Gandolfo
A word of warning about local tour guides in Rome:
Some local guides are excellent and some are very poor. In addition, some can be quite anti-Catholic. Comments such as “these items were stolen from…..and brought to Rome” or the use of the word “legend” rather than “tradition” will give the traveler a biased and in-accurate experience.
Be aware, that Italy has strict licensing laws concerning guides. A guide might be licensed for Assisi, but not Rome, or vice-versa. If you use an unlicensed guide and he gets stopped by the authorities, your tour might come to an abrupt halt!
Click here to read our suggestions about private tour guides in Rome.
Check out the many day trips from Rome: Florence, Tuscany, Naples & more.
Or perhaps a Pasta-Making Class: Cook, Dine & Drink Wine With A Local Chef
Click here for “Vatican Cookbook Set” by The Pontifical Swiss Guard..buy it for yourself or order the gift set for someone else.
Traveling to Rome:
As a major city, Rome is served by two airports: Leonardo da Vinci (the main airport, used by most major airlines)and Ciampino Airport which is used by budget airlines Easyjet and Ryanair.
Traveling indepentently? Check out these great Rome tours from Viator.
Train connections are excellent….the main terminal is aptly called “Termini”. And, of course, Rome can be a starting point for many other cities in Italy. And we recommend traveling by train: Italian trains are fast, clean and take you right to the heart of town. Get train & bus schedules, see fares & buy tickets here.