Basilica di Sant'Andrea della Valle

The basics

This imposing church is a repository of important baroque art and architecture, and the frescoed dome, designed by Carlo Maderno, is the second largest in Rome after St. Peter’s. Underneath this mighty cupola, the church features extravagant marble chapels and tombs of wealthy 16th-century Italian aristocrats, including the Strozzis, the Barberinis, and several popes. Great names like Michelangelo and Bernini had a hand in designing these sarcophagi.

Because of its wealth of art and architecture, the basilica is best visited with a guide. Many tours of Rome’s most important basilicas and churches, as well as itineraries focused on the city's most prominent Catholic landmarks, include a stop here.

Things to know before you go

• Fans of baroque art and architecture will be particularly taken by the basilica’s art-rich interiors and impressive dome.

• If you're visiting during a walking tour, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and choose clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.

• The church is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

The Basilica di Sant’Andrea della Valle is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II in Rome’s centro storico, an easy stroll from the lovely squares of Campo de’ Fiori—a lively morning market is held here—and Piazza Navona, famous for its Baroque fountains by Bernini. Otherwise, take metro Line B to the Colosseo stop and then walk to the church in about 10 minutes.

When to get there

Tour the church in the morning or late afternoon, as the basilica closes briefly at midday. It’s a good idea to avoid visiting during Mass, when tourists are discouraged from lingering in the nave.

Looking up to the heavens

One of the most striking works inside this church is Giovanni Lanfranco’s Glory of Paradise (Gloria del Paradiso), a lavish rendering of heaven covering the inside of the dome that became a model for dome decorations for decades to come.

Ways to explore

Because of its wealth of art and architecture, the Basilica di Sant’Andrea della Valle is best visited with a guide, although it is free to enter and visit independently. Many tours of Rome’s art-filled basilicas and churches, as well as itineraries focusing on the city’s most important Catholic sites, include a stop here. Learn more about architectural elements by Gian Francesco Grimaldi, Giacomo della Porta, and Carlo Maderno, plus explore extravagant chapels and tombs of 16th-century Roman aristocrats from the Strozzis to the Barberinis—as well as several popes—on a private or small-group experience.

Accessibility

The church is accessible to wheelchairs.

Age limits

Visit with a kid-focused guide to make the art and architecture engaging for younger visitors.

What to pack

Small binoculars to admire the dome frescoes, a camera and battery pack, euro coins for the timed lighting

What to wear

Clothing that covers shoulders and knees, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Flash photography, disturbing Mass or religious services

Amenities

Free audioguide, mirrors to admire the ceiling frescoes, interactive panels with information about the artworks

Address

The Basilica di Sant’Andrea della Valle is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II in Rome’s centro storico, an easy stroll from the lovely squares of Campo de’ Fiori—a lively morning market is held here—and Piazza Navona, famous for its baroque fountains by Bernini.

Driving

Sights in Rome’s historic center are not easy to reach by car, and Sant’Andrea della Valle is no exception. Heavy traffic, a tangle of one-way streets, and scarce parking make it a chore to drive to the basilica. Instead, visit on foot or by public transportation.

Public transportation

Take Metro Line B to the Colosseo stop and then walk to the church in about 10 minutes, or take one of the many city buses that stop in the nearby Largo di Torre Argentina transport hub.

Best times to visit

Tour the church in the morning or late afternoon, as the basilica closes at midday. Avoid visiting during Mass, when tourists are discouraged from lingering in the nave.

Best days to visit

This church is rarely crowded, but can get busy with visitors and worshippers on Sundays. Visit Monday through Saturday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

The low indoor lighting makes it challenging to appreciate the artwork without natural light. Take advantage of sunny days from spring through fall.