Basilica di Sant'Agostino

The Basics

Although the church is dedicated to Saint Augustine, it’s actually the saint’s mother—Saint Monica—who is entombed there, but the Basilica's main attraction is by far the rich art inside. You can visit the church by joining a walking tour of Rome's Baroque masterpieces that includes the art in this basilica as well as in other Roman churches by Caravaggio, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

Things to Know Before You Go

• When visiting Catholic churches in Rome, you must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

• Walking tours require some time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes.

• The church isn’t wheelchair- or stroller-accessible; there are stairs at the entrance.

• Flash photography is not allowed inside the church.

How to Get There

The Basilica di Sant'Agostino (also known as Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio) is located on Piazza di Sant'Agostino in the heart of Rome's historic center, just off Piazza Navona.

When to Get There

Rome's most famous churches can be crowded in summer, so visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to be able to enjoy the art in relative peace. The church is usually closed in August.

Sansovino's Miraculous Madonna

It is said that Jacopo Sansovino's La Madonna del Parto was originally a Roman statue of the Empress Agrippina holding her infant son Nero, which Sansovino reworked into a Christian rendering of the Madonna and child centuries later. The statue is said to have miraculous fertility powers, so it is usually surrounded by offerings from women who believe it interceded on their behalf.

Ways to explore

By far the main attraction of the monumental basilica dedicated to Saint Augustine is the rich art inside. Entry is free to all, but liturgical celebrations are closed to tourists. For an in-depth take, visit the church on a walking or driving tour of Rome’s Renaissance and baroque masterpieces. Such tours include the art in this basilica as well as in other Roman churches by Caravaggio, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Architecture tours also stop here to admire the Renaissance design, one of the first churches of its kind in Rome.

Accessibility

The church has a flight of stairs at the entrance and is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

Visit with a family-friendly guide to make the art more engaging for young travelers.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, small binoculars

What to wear

Clothing that covers your shoulders and knees

Not allowed

Flash photography, disrupting religious services

Address

The Basilica di Sant’Agostino (also known as Sant’Agostino in Campo Marzio) is located on Piazza di Sant’Agostino in the heart of Rome’s historic center, just off Piazza Navona. It’s easy to walk here from the Pantheon and other historic center sights, or arrive by public transportation.

Driving

Rome’s historic center is a maze of narrow one-way streets, many of which are restricted to authorized vehicles only. Bypass the stress of driving in this pedestrian-packed area and reach the church on foot or by bus.

Public transportation

Although no buses stop directly outside the basilica, the nearby Piazza delle Cinque Lune travel hub is situated along the routes of several city bus lines. There is also a taxi stand in this busy square.

Best times to visit

The basilica closes for a long stretch at midday, so time your visit before 12pm or after 4pm to avoid disappointment.

Best days to visit

You can visit Sant’Agostino on any day of the week, but Sundays are the busiest days for both tourists and worshippers. The church requests that tourists not attend Mass.

Best months to visit

This massive Renaissance church offers a respite from Rome’s torrid summer heat, so pop in from June to September to cool off and enjoy premier art.

Special events

An active place of worship, the Basilica holds special Masses and services on major Catholic holidays.