Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome Walking Tour (Self Guided), Rome

Despite not being the mother church of Catholicism or Rome’s cathedral, Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican is one of Christianity’s holiest sites. Tradition holds that Saint Peter, the first Bishop of Rome, is buried inside, beneath the high altar, known as the Altar of the Confession.

Built to replace the aging Old Saint Peter’s Basilica, the new construction began in 1506, under Pope Julius II, and was completed in 1626. Designed by Renaissance masters such as Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno, the basilica embodies the grandeur of Italian High Renaissance architecture. Its vast interior makes it the largest church in the world by space.

The basilica’s Latin cross layout features a vast dome, spanning 42 meters in diameter and towering 120 meters high. The imposing façade adorned with statues of Saints Peter and Paul is complemented by a narthex housing the Holy Door. The latter, walled up with bricks, is opened only during jubilee years. Inside, the immense nave, wide aisles, and chapels are decorated with elaborate sculptures and artwork. Among these are Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin, a monumental canopy over the Papal Altar. Other notable artworks include Giotto’s Navicella mosaic and equestrian statues of Constantine and Charlemagne.

Michelangelo played a crucial role in shaping the basilica, refining its design into a more unified and monumental form. His dome, completed in 1590, rises on a drum with 16 stone ribs. The dome’s structure, slightly more pointed than Michelangelo’s original plan, blends Renaissance ideals with Baroque dynamism. Encircling the dome's interior is an inscription that reads: "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church... and I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven." The dome has profoundly influenced Western church architecture, including Saint Paul's Cathedral in London, Karl's Church in Vienna, Saint Nicholas Church in Prague, and the Pantheon in Paris.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini also contributed to the basilica’s artistic grandeur. His plan for twin bell towers, eventually revised due to structural issues, left two clocks in their place. The left clock has been electrically operated since 1931, chiming major Vatican events.

The basilica also has six bells. The largest of them, “Campanone,” weighs 9 tons and is used for ringing for papal blessings. Up on the roof are the sculptures of Christ the Redeemer, Saint John the Baptist, and 11 Apostles.

Inside, the basilica houses over 100 tombs. Among them are many popes, including Pope Jean Paul II, royals, and other historical figures, such as Holy Roman Emperor Otto II and Italian composer Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.

Tips:
Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues. Admission is free (until 5 pm when the gates close), but expect to undergo a security check before entering. Remember to dress modestly, with knees and shoulders covered (affordable scarves for ladies are available from nearby vendors). If you're feeling adventurous, ascend to the top of the dome. An elevator ride can save you from climbing more than 300 stairs.

As the largest among the 26 churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major holds a significant place in history. Originally constructed by Pope Liberius in the 4th century, the church has undergone renovations and enhancements by successive popes while still retaining its early medieval structure. The colonnaded nave, an integral part of the original 5th-century building, offers a glimpse into its ancient origins. The medieval era contributed the captivating Cosmatesque marble floor and the delightful Romanesque bell tower adorned with intricate blue ceramic roundels. During the Renaissance, a new coffered ceiling was introduced, while the Baroque period left its imprint with twin domes and grand facades at the front and rear.

However, the true splendor of Saint Mary Major lies in its mosaics, which are among the oldest in Rome. The biblical scenes adorning the aisles date back to the 5th century, captivating visitors with their artistic depiction. The mosaics on the triumphal arch are particularly breathtaking, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the time. Among the medieval highlights is a magnificent 13th-century mosaic featuring an enthroned Christ in the loggia, adding to the artistic treasures within the basilica.

In 2001, Pope John Paul II inaugurated the Basilica Museum, dedicated to the history of the church and the spread of Catholicism throughout the world. Here you will see ecclesiastical paintings, ritual vestments, scores from the choir and manuscripts detailing church events.

Why You Should Visit:
Conveniently located and boasting a majestic presence, this grandiose church offers a captivating experience both inside and out, featuring by far the most successful blend of different architectural styles.

Tips:
When visiting, be sure to take advantage of the small tours available to explore the church's hidden treasures. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to visit the balcony loggia, which offers a unique perspective and allows you to admire more of the church's stunning architecture. As evening sets in, find a serene spot by the fountain and marvel at the illuminated beauty of the building.

The Papal Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls is one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome and one of the five papal basilicas. Historically, it was under the care of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The basilica is well-known as the burial site of Saint Lawrence, one of the first seven deacons of Rome, martyred in 258. Pope Pius IX and several other saints are also interred here, alongside an extensive and ancient burial complex.

The site originally had a small oratory built by Emperor Constantine I over Saint Lawrence's burial place. Later, Pope Damasus I restored or rebuilt it during his time. In the 580s, Pope Pelagius II constructed a church to honor Saint Lawrence, and in the 13th century, Pope Honorius III added another church in front of the earlier structure. These changes resulted in a layout that combines parts of the older church, like the nave and triumphal arch, with the newer construction.

The basilica features frescoes depicting the lives of Saints Lawrence and Stephen, both of whom are buried in the crypt beneath the high altar. Excavations have uncovered additional crypts below the current street level. The 13th-century portico has Cosmatesque decorations and includes two ancient sarcophagi, one adorned with images of cherubs and grapes, along with Romanesque stone lions from the original entrance.

The campanile, built in the 12th century, stands out as a notable feature. Inside, visitors can find the tomb of Cardinal Guglielmo Fieschi, interred in an older sarcophagus that depicts a pagan marital feast. The basilica also inspired painter J. M. W. Turner, who sketched it during his visit in 1819.

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is one of the "Seven Churches" visited by pilgrims. Originating from an imperial residence established by the Severan emperors. The site was transformed by Emperor Constantine's mother, Helena, into a chapel housing relics of the True Cross, eventually becoming the Basilica Eleniana or Sessoriana.

Over centuries, the basilica underwent various restorations, including Romanesque-style modifications in the 12th century and Baroque redesigns in the 18th century under Pope Benedict XIV. Notable features include the Titulus Crucis relic, discovered during 15th-century renovations, and a distinctive travertine façade with Baroque elements. Nearby stands the Chapel of Our Lady of Good Help, built in gratitude by Pope Sixtus IV in 1476.

Saint John's Archbasilica, not Saint Peter's Basilica, holds the distinction of being highest-ranking basilica in the world. Founded in 324, it is the oldest public church in the city of Rome, and the oldest basilica of the Western world.

Emperor Constantine commissioned the construction of this grand church, predating the establishment of Saint Peter's, making it the primary ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope. Throughout its history, the edifice has faced challenges such as vandalism, earthquakes, and fires, leading to extensive restorations in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notably, the interior was artfully designed by the renowned Baroque genius Borromini. Standing tall on the impressive facade are colossal statues representing the 12 apostles, Christ, John the Baptist, and the Virgin Mary.

While much of the structure has undergone restoration, fragments from earlier periods remain. Adorning the left portico stands an ancient statue of Constantine, while the central portal boasts ancient bronze doors transferred from the Curia in the Roman Forum.

Inside, the altar features a magnificent Gothic tabernacle, dating back to 1367, which is believed to house the revered heads of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. A captivating sight awaits in the last chapel of the left aisle, where a cloister adorned with 12th-century cosmatesque mosaics can be admired.

Just around the corner, Emperor Constantine's octagonal baptistery stands as one of Rome's oldest Christian structures. Despite multiple restorations, a 17th-century redecoration, and even a car bombing in 1993 associated with the Mafia, the baptistery has preserved its ancient form, serving as a testament to its enduring significance.

Tip:
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the cloister behind the archbasilica. Although there is a small fee, it grants you access to a collection of authentic antiquities dating back to pre-Roman times, as well as a selection of intriguing Catholic relics.

Villa Celimontana, with its formal walks and avenues, encompasses a significant portion of the Celian Hill in Rome. Originally known as Villa Mattei, the estate was constructed in the 1580s and today serves as the headquarters of the Italian Geographical Society, while the park, adorned with majestic pine trees that provide ample shade, is now under the ownership of the city of Rome. It remains an idyllic location for picnics, boasting a playground with swings and offering delightful pony rides. Additionally, during balmy summer evenings, visitors can relish outdoor jazz concerts held within its confines.

Back in 1553, the Dukes of Mattei purchased this land and transformed the hillside vineyards into an exquisite formal garden. Amidst the lush greenery, you'll discover an assortment of exotic trees, including stately palms, as well as a remarkable Egyptian obelisk adorned with hieroglyphs depicting the life of Ramses II. Presented to the Mattei family in 1582, this obelisk became the centerpiece of the park. Eventually, in 1817, it was repositioned to its current location on the left side of the park's main entrance. An intriguing tale accompanies the relocation, involving a workman who, unfortunately, had his hand and forearm trapped during the process. Tragically, a part of his arm had to be amputated, and his hand and forearm remain entombed beneath the weighty obelisk.

In the past, the Mattei family graciously opened the park to the public during the annual Visit of the Seven Churches, a cherished event established by Saint Filippo Neri in 1553. During this momentous occasion, Romans embarked on a pilgrimage on foot, commencing from the Chiesa Nuova and visiting the city's seven major churches. Upon arriving at Villa Mattei, they were bestowed with provisions including bread, wine, salami, cheese, an egg, and two apples.

Saint Sebastian outside the Walls is a minor basilica in Rome, built in the first half of the 4th century. The basilica is dedicated to Saint Sebastian, a Roman martyr from the 3rd century. The church's location outside the Aurelian Walls gives it its name, distinguishing it from another church of the same name on the Palatine Hill.

The basilica is also closely linked to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, over which it was constructed. These catacombs served as a temporary resting place for the remains of Saints Peter and Paul during the persecutions under Emperor Valerian in 258, before their relics were transferred to the basilicas named after them. Originally dedicated as the Basilica of the Apostles, the church was rededicated to Saint Sebastian in the 9th century after his remains were moved there around 350.

Over the centuries, the basilica underwent several reconstructions. It was rebuilt after being destroyed during Saracen raids in the 9th century and saw significant changes during the 13th century when its arcade was walled in. The current structure dates to the early 17th century, with major renovations led by architects Flaminio Ponzio and Giovanni Vasanzio under the commission of Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

Saint Sebastian was one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, especially popular during the Seven Churches Visitation pilgrimage initiated by Saint Philip Neri in 1553. Though it was replaced on the list by another church in 2000, many pilgrims still visit due to its connection to the catacombs and its proximity to central Rome. The street linking it with the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is aptly named "Via delle Sette Chiese" (Street of the Seven Churches).

Saint Paul's Outside the Walls is one of the five patriarchal basilicas in Rome and is situated on the site where Saint Paul's tomb is believed to be. Unfortunately, it suffered a devastating fire in 1823 and was subsequently reconstructed in the 19th century, faithfully replicating its original design. The grandeur is evident in the medallions of the popes that adorn the nave and transepts, Starting with Saint Peter positioned to the right of the apse and culminating with Benedict XVI at the top of the south aisle.

The triumphal arch above the nave features restored 5th-century mosaics on one side, while the other side boasts mosaics by Pietro Cavallini, originally located on the facade.

The cloister of Saint Paul, untouched by the fire, showcases a remarkable display of architectural beauty. Completed around 1214, it is adorned with vibrant, inlaid columns that support the arcade. This cloister is home to what is arguably Rome's most magnificent example of Cosmati craftsmanship. Its columns, adorned with intricate mosaics, spiral gracefully and enclose a tranquil rose garden.

Beyond the cloister lies the pinacoteca, a gallery exhibiting ecclesiastical art, vestments, and related artifacts. Additionally, an exhibition gallery connected to the cloister displays fragments of recently unearthed statuary from the early medieval monastic complex located south of the basilica. Accessible via the glass staircase near the shop, the excavations themselves were opened to the public in 2018, providing a captivating glimpse into the historical depths of Saint Paul's Outside the Walls.

Why You Should Visit:
A grand mix of statuary, mosaics, and sacred artifacts.

Tip:
Make sure not to overlook the original walls constructed by Constantine and the underground museum showcasing recent archaeological findings.
Admission to the church is free, but there is an additional fee for adults who wish to explore the beautifully adorned columns in the backyard.