Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva in Rome
About
The Church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva in Rome, boasting a high average rating of 4.7 on Google, is a captivating mix of Gothic architecture and Renaissance style. This extraordinary church houses Michelangelo's illustrious 'The Risen Christ' sculpture and is adorned with Cappella Carafa frescoes. The exterior facade is elegantly Renaissance, and the church's ceiling, speckled with gold stars, adds to its celestial beauty. Notably, it features the Elephant Obelisk monument by Bernini, among other memorials by renowned artists. Inside, you'll find the sacred remains and shrine of St. Catherine of Siena, as well as the tomb of Fra Angelico. The church welcomes visitors daily from 11am to 1pm and again from 3pm to 7pm.
Features
Wheelchair accessible
How to get here?
The nearest public transport options for your convenience.
Reviews and Ratings
Write a review
Molto bella

Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of the most spiritual and awe-inspiring churches in Rome. While the exterior may appear modest, stepping inside reveals a stunningly beautiful and sacred space. It’s also one of the very few Gothic-style churches in Rome, which makes it architecturally unique. The high vaulted ceilings painted in deep blue, the stained glass windows, and the intricate interior decorations create a breathtaking atmosphere. One of the highlights is Michelangelo’s famous statue of the “Risen Christ,” which stands near the altar. The basilica also houses the tomb of Saint Catherine of Siena, making it a major pilgrimage site for Catholics. The church dates back to the 13th century and gets its name from the ancient Temple of Minerva that once stood on the same site. Outside the entrance, the charming elephant statue carrying an obelisk sculpted by Bernini adds a unique Roman character and is a beloved photo spot. If you’re looking to step away from the crowds and immerse yourself in history, art, and spirituality, Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a must visit. It offers a moment of peace and a deep sense of connection in the heart of Rome.

Gratuit. Ne paye pas trop de mine à l'extèrieur mais très belle à l'intérieur
Piazza della Rotonda
- 118 m
- Open now
- Historical Buildings
Located in the heart of Rome, the Pantheon stands as a testament to ancient Roman architectural...
Piazza S. Ignazio
- 195 m
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Located in the heart of Rome, the Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola is a stunning example of Bar...
Piazza del Gesù
- 257 m
- Closed now
- Churches, Cathedrals
The Chiesa del Gesù in Rome stands as a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is one of ...
Largo di Torre Argentina
- 292 m
- Open now
- Attractions
Area Sacra di Largo Argentina in Rome stands as a fascinating attraction with an impressive ave...
Via del Corso, 305
- 294 m
- Open now
- Museums
- Art Galleries
Nestled in the heart of Rome, the Galleria Doria Pamphilj presents a sublime blend of art, hist...
Piazza di San Luigi de' Francesi
- 323 m
- Closed now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi, nestled in the heart of Rome, is a must-visit for fans of Bar...
Piazza Venezia, 5
- 351 m
- Open now
- Attractions
Palazzo Bonaparte, an exquisite Baroque-style attraction in Rome designed by Giovan Antonio de'...
Via Marco Minghetti, 10
- 398 m
- Closed today
- Attractions
Discover the enchanting Galleria Sciarra, an exquisite attraction nestled in Rome's Palazzo Sci...
Piazza Navona, 2
- 441 m
- Open now
- Museums
Situated in the heart of Rome, the Museo di Roma - Palazzo Braschi offers an enchanting journey...
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Situated in the heart of Rome, the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore stands as a testamen...
Piazza San Pietro
- Churches, Cathedrals
The Basilica di San Pietro in Vatican City stands as a breathtaking testament to Renaissance an...
Cappella Sistina
- Open now
- Museums
- Churches, Cathedrals
- Historical Buildings
Cappella Sistina, nestled in the heart of Rome, stands as a magnificent testament to human arti...
Piazza San Giovanni In Laterano
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
The Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, located in the heart of Rome, stands as a testament t...
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, the Basilica di Santa Maria in Tra...
Piazza S. Ignazio
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Located in the heart of Rome, the Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola is a stunning example of Bar...
Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli, 4/a
- Closed now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, a stunning Renaissance architecture gem designed by Giuliano...
Piazza di San Clemente
- Closed now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Located just a short walk from the Colosseum, the Basilica di San Clemente in Rome is a true ge...
Piazzale San Paolo, 1a
- Open now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Basilica Papale di San Paolo Fuori le Mura is a gem of Neoclassical architecture, masterfully d...
Piazza di San Luigi de' Francesi
- Closed now
- Churches, Cathedrals
Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi, nestled in the heart of Rome, is a must-visit for fans of Bar...