About this experience
The churches of Rome are true treasures where you can enjoy the creativity of Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio for free. Unlike museums, here you will see their masterpieces in all their authenticity, which is very important for understanding the artwork. You will learn about the features of Renaissance and Baroque painting, learn to distinguish frescoes from paintings, and discover the work of renowned artists in Rome.
What to Expect
Our 4-kilometer walk is dedicated to unique frescoes and paintings created by geniuses of two eras. We will walk from Capitoline Hill through the historic center of the Field of Mars, between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, and visit five Roman churches.
Santa Maria in Aracoeli. In the ancient basilica, rebuilt in the 13th century, in the San Bernardino Chapel, we will study the fresco cycle by Pinturicchio.
Santa Maria sopra Minerva. We will explore the Carafa Chapel with frescoes by Filippino Lippi, sculptures by Michelangelo, and Gothic tombs. The Dominican church is the only example of Gothic architecture in 13th century Rome.
Basilica of Saint Augustine. Next, we will visit a monument of early Renaissance religious architecture with masterpieces by Raphael and Caravaggio. The church is also associated with spicy stories about the lives of Roman courtesans.
Church of Saint Louis of the French. We will admire the Caravaggio triptych dedicated to the apostle Matthew. The National French church was built with the money of Queen Catherine de Medici and is the pantheon of famous French citizens, many of whom are buried here.
Santa Maria della Pace. We will stroll through the district of Saint Eustace and through Piazza Navona to the church with frescoes by Raphael, Baldassare Peruzzi, d'Arpino, Gentileschi, and others. Many distinguished families, whose stories are inseparably linked to the Eternal City, are buried in the church.
You will learn:
- Where to see frescoes by Raphael and paintings by Caravaggio for free
- Where in Rome is the Renaissance square designed by Michelangelo
- What grotesques are in painting and who discovered sfumato and perspective
- Who was the Roman courtesan Lena and how she is connected to Caravaggio
- Where the funniest sculpture by Bernini is located and why it is called Minerva's flea
- Where Roman prostitutes went to pray
- Who was Agostino Chigi, the richest man in Rome in the early 16th century
- Where the most beautiful Baroque square in Rome is located
Looking is not the same as seeing and understanding, but with me, a professional art historian, you will learn to see things in all their beauty.
Who Should Take This Tour
For all those interested in the history of Rome, art, especially painting, sculpture, and architecture.
Organizational Details
- Visiting Roman churches is currently free, fortunately
- I recommend clothing suitable for visiting religious institutions (covered shoulders, stomach, knees)
- Discount available for families of 4 or more: details in correspondence with the guide
Photos from reviews
Elena
May 2, 2024
Julia conducted a wonderful tour for us. Very clear way of presentation, after all, we are on vacation. In Rome, there are a huge number of basilicas and churches, she selected the best for us! We had a great time! As a woman, I would like to note a very neat appearance, a pleasant voice, and overal...
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Ekaterina
April 27, 2024
A very informative and beautiful tour! The churches are incredible! Yulia has very deep knowledge and willingly shares it, answering any questions.
Alexey
April 21, 2024
Yulia is an excellent guide, superb organization, punctuality. We learned a lot of new things, visited non-touristy places. Huge thanks to Yulia for this tour.
