Church of St. Louis of the French in Rome: photos, reviews

About

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi, nestled in the heart of Rome, is a must-visit for fans of Baroque architecture and classical art. Rated highly with an average of 4.8 stars on Google, this national church for French citizens in Rome enchants visitors with its stunning interiors and three celebrated Caravaggio masterpieces: 'The Calling', 'The Inspiration' and 'The Martyrdom' of St. Matthew, housed in the Contarelli Chapel.

The church, which offers free entry, is suitable for children, making it a great stop for families exploring the Eternal City. Remember to dress appropriately with shoulders covered. Although there is a midday break between 12:45pm and 2:30pm, and no tourist visits are allowed during religious ceremonies, planning your visit around these times ensures a smooth experience. Enjoy the rich history, the grandiose Baroque decor, and the magnificent art that make this church a treasured gem in Rome.

Features

Wheelchair accessible, Suitable for children

How to get here?

The nearest public transport options for your convenience.

Zanardelli

Bus stop 266 m walk

Piazza Navona (Rome City Center)

Bus stop 121 m walk

Senato

Bus stop 108 m walk

Rinascimento

Bus stop 192 m walk

C.So Vittorio Emanuele/S. A. Della Valle

Bus stop 343 m walk

4.7

based on 7,545 reviews

Google

4.7/5 7,545 reviews

Mariona Navarro Font

La obra La Vocación de San Mateo de Caravaggio se encuentra en la Capilla Contarelli, dentro de la iglesia de San Luis de los Franceses (San Luigi dei Francesi) en Roma. ¡Parada obligatoria para los amantes del arte y de Caravaggio! Es una obra maestra del tenebrismo, técnica que Caravaggio domina magistralmente para crear un dramático contraste entre luz y sombra. La escena representa el momento exacto en que Cristo llama a Mateo, capturado con gran realismo y emoción. Lo más llamativo es cómo Caravaggio sitúa a los personajes en un ambiente cotidiano del siglo XVII, con vestimenta común, acercando lo divino a lo humano. Además, se cree que el propio pintor se autorretrató en uno de los personajes, añadiendo un toque personal. ¡Esta pintura, parte del encargo para la capilla Contarelli en Roma, sigue siendo una de las obras más impactantes y revolucionarias del arte barroco!