A detailed guide to the 10 must-see churches in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of art, history and religious architecture. Among its countless churches, there are some that stand out for their beauty, historical and spiritual importance. Here is a list of ten churches in Rome that you absolutely must visit.

1. St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is undoubtedly the most famous church in Rome and one of the most important in the Christian world. Built over the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope, the basilica is a Renaissance masterpiece, with contributions from Michelangelo, Bramante and Bernini. Its majestic dome dominates the Rome skyline, and the interior is decorated with priceless works of art.

2. Basilica of St. John Lateran

Known as the “mother of all churches in the world,” St. John Lateran is Rome's cathedral and the official seat of the Pope. The church has a history dating back to the 4th century and features a Baroque facade and interiors rich in mosaics and sculptures.

3. Basilica of Saint Mary Major

This papal basilica is one of the four major basilicas in Rome and one of the main places of Marian worship. Founded in the fifth century, Santa Maria Maggiore is known for its early Christian and medieval mosaics, as well as the Sistine Chapel (not to be confused with the one in the Vatican) and the Pauline Chapel.

4. Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

This basilica is located outside the Aurelian Walls, and is one of the four papal basilicas. Built on the burial site of St. Paul, the church is famous for its gilded mosaics, granite columns, and medieval cloister.

5. Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

One of the oldest churches in Rome, Santa Maria in Trastevere is famous for its beautiful 12th-century Byzantine mosaics decorating the apse. The church is a quiet and charming place located in the lively Trastevere district.

To know more about this neighborhood read What to do and to see in Trastevere Rome.

6. Church of the Jesus

The mother church of the Jesuit order, the Gesù is a sublime example of Baroque architecture. Built in the 16th century, it is known for its ceiling fresco, “The Triumph of the Name of Jesus” by Giovanni Battista Gaulli, and spectacular interior decoration.

7. Basilica of San Clemente

St. Clement's is unique for its three levels of construction: a 12th-century basilica, a 4th-century early Christian church, and remains of a 1st-century Roman house. The apse mosaics and medieval frescoes are among the most beautiful in Rome.

8. Santa Maria sopra Minerva

The only Gothic church in Rome, Santa Maria sopra Minerva is located near the Pantheon. Inside is the tomb of St. Catherine of Siena and Michelangelo's famous statue of the Risen Christ.

9. Basilica of St. Peter in Chains

This church is famous for housing Michelangelo's Moses, one of the greatest Renaissance sculptures. The basilica takes its name from the chains (bonds) that, according to tradition, were used to bind St. Peter during his imprisonment in Jerusalem.

10. Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem

Founded by St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is one of Rome's holiest sites. The church holds important relics of the Passion of Christ, including fragments of the True Cross, one of the thorns from Christ's crown and a nail from the crucifixion.To visit these churches is to immerse oneself in Rome's thousand-year history, to admire priceless works of art and to discover places of great spirituality.

Each offers a unique perspective on the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. Whether you are a devotee, an art lover or simply a curious tourist, these churches are must-see stops on your trip to Rome.