A visit to Rome would be incomplete without witnessing the churches here with fine art work. Many churches stay open all day but some close for a few hours in the afternoon. All churches require you to be quiet and respectful while some require you to be in a proper dress code. Some of the famous churches of Rome are:
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the oldest churches built in the year 118, Rome. It was authorized by Marcus Agrippa, which was later re-constructed by Emperor Hadrian. It has a huge dome that has an opening and allows sunrays to enter. The view is splendid.
Trastevere
Trastevere is probably the first Church of Rome. The name Trastevere has been derived from a Latin word that originally means ‘beyond the tiger’. It was constructed in the fourth century but was re-built in the twelfth century. This church is well known for its wonderful ancient mosaics. It is situated on the banks of Tiber, Vatican City
St.Peter’s Basilica
St.Peter’s Basilica is situated in the Vatican City of Rome and is famous for Michelangelo’s artwork. The dome of the church, which rises to a height of about 400 feet above ground level, was designed by Michelangelo and is considered to be the finest example of the Renaissance architecture. The church can accommodate up to 80,000 people and is considered to be one of the largest churches of Rome. The church also comprises of The Pieta. The Pieta, made by Michelangelo is the finest piece of sculpture evoking deep emotions. It shows Mary in seating position carrying the body of Jesus across her breast.
The Basilica of the Holy Cross
The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is a Roman Catholic parish church and minor basilica in Rome, Italy. It is considered to be one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome. It has beautiful hardens set in the Castrense amphitheatre and a hotel. It is well known for its compilation of relics. This church has been re-constructed several times and was last renovated in the 18th century. The name of this church has been derived from an Italian word.
Santa Maria del Popolo
Santa Maria del Popolo, in Piazza del Popolo, was one of the first Renaissance churches in Rome. The church features Caravaggio’s Martrydom of St. Peter and Conversion of St. Paul. In the Chigi Chapel, created by Raphael, are ceiling mosaics and pyramid-like tombs as well as statues by Bernini.
San Clemente
San Clemente located near the Colosseum displays Rome’s interesting history. It is built in honour of Pope Clement I and is a Roman Catholic minor basilica. The church has been reconstructed thrice and is a three-tiered complex of buildings and was last re modeled in the twelfth century.
You can easily find hotels near all these churches. The Hotel Veneto offers accommodation near St Patrick’s church in Rome. Hotel Emmaus Rome lies at a mere one hundred yards from Piazza San Pietro and the spiritual home of the Catholic Church. The Hotel Forum Rome Italy is located near the Coliseum.