Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
Piazza della Repubblica, Rome, Italy, 00185
The impressive 16th-century Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and Martyrs (Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri) is set in the ruins of the Roman Baths of Diocletian, and its remarkable interior—designed by Michelangelo—is testament to the massive size of ancient Roman buildings. Located in the heart of Rome, the church features a meridian line, which was built in the early 1700s to predict the exact date of Easter each year.
The Basics
The current Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and Martyrs (Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri)is based on a design by Michelangelo, who worked on the church from 1563 to 1564; Luigi Vanvitelli oversaw later renovations. The sumptuous marble Greek-cross interior is decorated with 18th-century paintings, the tomb of Pope Pius IV, and the meridian line sundial—commissioned by Pope Clement XI, built by Francesco Bianchini, and still operational today. Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj created new bronze doors and a statue of John the Baptist for the basilica in 2006.
Because of its location in the heart of Rome, the basilica is a popular stop on walking or Vespa tours of Christian Rome that also include religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Things to Know Before You Go
Comfortable shoes are recommended if visiting as part of a walking tour.
Photography without flash is allowed in the basilica.
Modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is required to enter the church.
The basilica is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri is in the ruins of the Terme di Diocleziano, located on Piazza della Repubblica just across from Rome's Termini station and Palazzo Massimo alle Terme. Both of the city's metro lines and numerous bus lines stop at Termini.
When to Get There
The cool and quiet interior of the church is a welcome respite from Rome's midday heat and chaos near the train station, so pop in during the hottest hours of the day.
Italy's Other Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
Italy has two famous basilicas dedicated to Saint Mary of the Angels: one in Rome and one in Assisi, Umbria, the birthplace of Saint Francis. The Assisi basilica holds the small church called the Porziuncola—the chapel where the Franciscan order began—and is adjacent the saint's miraculous rose garden. Other sights in Assisi include the Basilica di San Francesco with the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi, the Basilica di Santa Chiara, and the castle fortress of Rocca Maggiore.
Ways to explore
The current basilica reflects many artistic and architectural styles: it’s based on a design by Michelangelo, later renovations were overseen by Luigi Vanvitelli, the sumptuous marble Greek-cross interior is decorated with 18th-century paintings, the meridian-line sundial was commissioned by Pope Clement XI and built by Francesco Bianchini, and a stained-glass dome was added in 2001.
Due to its location in the heart of the city, the basilica is a popular stop on walking or Vespa tours of Christian Rome, alongside other top sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Accessibility
The basilica is partly wheelchair accessible, with wide doors.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Coins to use the public restrooms nearby at Termini Station
What to wear
Modest clothing that covers the knees, shoulders, and chest, for all genders
Not allowed
Entrance to some parts is restricted during Mass, and admission is not permitted without appropriate clothing.
Amenities
Free guided tours, but reservations are required
Address
The Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri is in the ruins of the Baths of Diocletian, located on Piazza della Repubblica, just across from Termini station and Palazzo Massimo alle Terme.
Driving
Driving in central Rome isn’t advised due to traffic and difficulty parking. However, if you are driving, head to the large parking lot at Termini station.
Public transportation
Both of the city’s metro lines and numerous bus lines stop at Termini, a short walk from the basilica. Repubblica station is also convenient.
Best times to visit
The basilica is open daily from morning until evening with a 3-hour extended break in the middle of the day, so plan your sightseeing around the closure. Special-access evening guided tours can be booked. Mass is held in the evenings, Monday to Saturday, and several times on Sundays.
Best days to visit
Plan your trip during the week for a slightly more peaceful experience, as many people come to worship here on Sundays.
Best months to visit
Peak travel season in Rome runs from May to September, and temperatures can be especially hot from July to August. Visit between October and April for a quieter experience (except for Easter and Christmas).
Special events
Major Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas are lively times to visit.
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