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Basilica of Santa Maria de la Victoria
Located just outside Málaga’s historic quarter, the Basilica of Santa Maria de la Victoria has a relatively plain exterior. Don’t be fooled by its modest façade — it conceals an interior that’s considered to be one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Andalusia. Inside, the church is filled with plaster decoration painted with gold accents, and laid out in the shape of a Latin cross. Two chapels come off the central aisle and a cupola tops it all off.
The exhibition hall houses the treasure of the Virgen de la Victoria in a space adjoining one of the chapels. Here, the patroness of Málaga's trousseau is displayed. Among the paintings and sculptures is a noteworthy Virgin of the Sorrows, the ‘Dolorosa’, by Pedro de Mena. At the basement of the church’s tower, a small museum houses the Pantheon of the Counts of Buenavista. This pantheon is considered one of the most unique in Spain because of its macabre decoration, intended to provoke thoughts of mortality (one of the frequent themes of the Counter Reformation).
Insider’s Tip: Certain elements of the basilica, like the crypt, the impressive “heavenly tower,” and the convent hospital gardens, are only accessible by guided tour. The 20-30 minute tour costs 2€.
Practical Info
The Basilica of Santa Maria is located in the area of La Victoria, close to the Plaza de Merced. Certain elements of the basilica, like the crypt, the tower, and the gardens, are only accessible by guided tour. The church is closed to the public on Sundays and Mondays.
Address: Plaza Santuario, 8, Malaga, Spain
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-1pm
Admission: Free to enter the church, 2€ to enter the museum and the tower
From $ 41
Basilica of Saint Mary
The historical highlight of the palm-fringed city of Elche, just a short hop from Alicante, the Basilica of Saint Mary is best known for hosting the annual Mystery of Elche play, a theatric interpretation of the death of the Virgin Mary and her assumption to heaven. The traditional play, which features around 300 performers and draws huge crowds, has been performed in the basilica since the 13th-century, and it’s the only Catholic church in the world permitted to host such an event. The play, typically held in two acts each August, is also inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage list.
Built on the site of an ancient mosque, the Basilica of Saint Mary is also notable for its ornate Baroque facade and striking dome, which date back to the 17th century, and the bell tower, which offers panoramic views over the city.
Practical Info
The Basilica of Saint Mary is located on Placa de les Flors in Elche, around 25km southwest of Alicante, and is open daily 7am-9pm.
Address: Placa de les Flors, Elche, Spain
Hours: Open daily 7am-9pm
From $ 32
Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere
As the cradle of Christianity, Rome is home to some of the oldest churches in the world. Among the most important is the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, with a facade and interior covered in golden mosaics from the 12th and 13th centuries. Dominating Piazza di Santa Maria, the church is a highlight of historical Trastevere.
The Basics
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere was originally founded in the third century, but a complete renovation in the 12th century left the church in its present form, with a Romanesque bell tower and shimmering golden mosaics inside and out. Believed to be the first church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the basilica has a 16th-century portico designed by Carlo Fontana and an interior divided into three naves by lines of columns taken from the ancient Baths of Caracalla. One of the most beloved churches in the city, Santa Maria in Trastevere is often chosen by Romans to celebrate weddings and baptisms.
Explore the church and the vibrant neighborhood of Trastevere on a guided walking, bike, or Segway tour. Guided food tours explore Trastevere and the nearby Jewish Ghetto, both known for their excellent cuisine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors must wear modest attire covering knees and shoulders to enter the church.
- Photography is allowed inside the church.
- The basilica is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The square outside the church is pedestrian only and generally filled with street musicians and artists, so a good stop if traveling with young children.
How to Get There
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is located on the square of the same name, along the east bank of the Tiber River, south of Vatican City. Cross the Ponte Sisto on foot, or take tram 8 from the center of Rome across the Ponte Garibaldi, just north of Tiber Island.
When to Get There
The church is a popular venue for weddings and other religious ceremonies on the weekends, during which time the interior may not be accessible. Visit the church in the late afternoon for the best light on the facade, then stop at one of the many cafés in the square just outside for a relaxing aperitivo.
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere stands on Piazza Santa Maria, the heart of this bohemian neighborhood that is filled by day with Romans and visitors dining at sidewalk restaurants and sunbathing on the steps of the square’s central fountain. Come evening, the city’s youth flock to the many trendy bars and cafés in and around the piazza.
Address: Via della Paglia, 14, Rome, Province of Rome 00153, Italy
From $ 34
Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano (Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano)
Rome’s Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano offers wonders both above and below ground. The interior of the 12th-century church is richly decorated with Byzantine mosaics considered among Italy’s best, and below the surface are two layers of ancient ruins including a fourth-century basilica, a temple, and a first-century villa.
The Basics
When visiting the Basilica of San Clemente, you can admire the present-day church—home to spectacular mosaics and the tombs of St. Clement and St. Cyril—before heading underground to tour the excavations below. Here, you’ll find well-preserved frescoes, a pagan temple dedicated to Mithras, and the remains of a Roman house.
There are thousands of years of history to take in at the Basilica of San Clemente, so the best way to visit is by joining a private guided tour of the church and underground excavation sites with skip-the-line entry. Many tours of San Clemente also visit the Capuchin Crypt and accompanying museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano is ideal for history buffs.
- Book a skip-the-line tour to avoid long waits, especially in the summer months.
- San Clemente is a Catholic church—modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and a respectful decorum are required.
- Photography is not allowed inside the basilica.
- The excavations beneath San Clemente are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano is located on Piazza San Clemente near the Colosseum. Take metro line B from the Termini train station to the Colosseo stop.
When to Get There
The church and underground excavations are open daily year-round; check the website for hours and mass times. The site is a cool reprieve from the summer heat, yet can be very crowded during this time.
San Clemente History
San Clemente was built on top of an older basilica dating from the fourth century, which in turn was built on the remains of a villa owned by a wealthy Roman, probably destroyed by the great fire in AD 64.
Address: Piazza San Clemente, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Basilica di San Nicola
Bari is the capital city of Puglia in southern Italy and over its years as the most important port on the Adriatic it acquired a rich and varied architectural legacy. Chief among these is the landmark grandeur of the Basilica di San Nicola in Barivecchia, the centro storico that lies at the heart of the modern city. Some 150 years in the making, the cathedral was completed in 1197, when Bari was under Norman rule; it is a fine example of Puglian-Romanesque architecture with a squat, austere and simple façade. Inside there’s a fine mosaic floor, clearly showing Turkish influence, plus a fine altar and a carved 12th-century stone bishops’ throne, supported by comedic sagging figures.
The basilica is a point of pilgrimage for both Catholic and Orthodox Christians as it contains the relics of St Nicholas, which were stolen in the 11th century from his original resting place in Myra in present day Turkey. He is patron saint of Bari but better known across the English-speaking world as Santa Claus or Father Christmas, provider of much excitement for children come December 24. His remains are found in the crypt, which is adorned with carved columns and gleaming icons; it is believed that myrrh seeps constantly from his body, a legend celebrated on December 6 along with solemn processions through the city.
Practical Info
The Basilica di San Nicola is at Largo Abate Elia 13
and is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Sunday until 10 p.m. Admission is free.
Address: Largo Abate Elia 13, Bari, Italy
Hours: Monday-Saturday 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sunday until 10 p.m.
From $ 22
Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
Housing some of Spain’s most magnificent treasures, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is the single most important landmark of the city of Zaragoza in Spain. Standing tall in Baroque style, it is said to be the first church named for the Virgin Mary after a vision of her took place here in 40 AD. It is said that the small wooden statue of her given to St. James in the vision still resides in the basilica. A Roman style stone pillar from the 15th century holds a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus.
Our Lady of the Pillar is considered the patroness of Spain, and the site draws thousands of pilgrims each year. It is the second biggest church in Spain (after the Seville Cathedral,) and its plaza in front is the largest pedestrian plaza in the country. Its holy chapel is painted by the famous artist Goya.
Practical Info
The basilica can be found in the city of Zaragosa in the Aragon region of Spain, and reached via its main entrance on the Plaza de Orbradoiro.
Address: Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
From $ 36
Basilica di San Petronio
Dedicated to the fifth-century bishop Petronius, who became Bologna’s patron saint, the Basilica di San Petronio dominates Piazza Maggiore in the heart of the city. One of the largest churches in the world and a soaring example of Gothic grandeur, the basilica Is a highlight of any Bologna city tour.
The Basics
Construction of the Basilica di San Petronio began in 1390, but renovations to enlarge the building were interrupted in the 1500s when its size threatened to overshadow St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The basilica’s façade was unfortunately left unfinished, but the interiors are beautifully realized, including the Cappella dei Magi, with sumptuous frescoes by Giovanni da Modena, rich stained glass, elegant carved marble, and the astronomer Cassini’s brass meridian line embedded in the floor of the eastern aisle. Visitors also enjoy panoramic views over the city from the terrace on the church roof, and stroll through the basilica’s museum to see precious artifacts, illuminated manuscripts, and vestments belonging to the church.
Basilica di San Petronio is the most important church in Bologna, and a highlight of any city walking or bike tour, along with attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the churches of Santo Stefano and San Domenico. Some travelers visit as part of a multi-day trip from Rome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bologna tours on foot or by bike are mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
- Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the church.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside, though not in the Cappella dei Magi.
- The basilica is wheelchair accessible, but the rooftop terrace is not.
- Visitors are required to wear modest attire that covers shoulders and knees.
How to Get There
The Basilica di San Petronio is located on Piazza Maggiore, the main square in the center of Bologna. The square is an easy walk from the Bologna Centrale train station and most of the major attractions in the city center.
When to Get There
Bologna is known for its extreme weather, with wet winters and hot summers. The basilica interiors offer a welcome respite from the elements in both winter and summer, though the church does close at midday on weekdays.
San Petronio’s Controversial Chapel
Giovanni da Modena’s 15th-century fresco cycle depicting heaven and hell is the most famous work of art in the Basilica of San Petronio, in part because of its near-pristine state and in part because it shows the prophet Muhammad being devoured by demons, an image that is considered sacrilegious by many of the Islamic faith.
Address: Piazza Maggiore, Bologna 40124, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Basilica di Santo Stefano
Only four churches of the original seven that once made up this stylistic jumble of buildings remain, but a visit to the Bologna’s Basilica di Santo Stefano is still a fascinating stroll through centuries of religious architecture. With winding passageways linking chapels and cloisters, this is one of the city’s most captivating churches.
The Basics
The Basilica of Santo Stefano (known locally as the Sette Chiese, or Seven Churches), set on the large, triangular Piazza di Santo Stefano, is among Bologna’s top attractions, and a highlight of any city walking, bike, or Segway tour. Visitors enter the 11th-century Chiesa del Crocifisso, where the remains of Bologna’s patron saint, St. Petronius, lay until it was moved to the Basilica di San Petronio in 2000. The route then passes through a maze of pretty courtyards to the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, the Chiesa della Trinitá, and the Chiesa Santi Vitale e Agricola, Bologna’s oldest church, which was constructed with fragments of pilfered Roman flooring and masonry. The complex also houses a museum with a collection of religious paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts. In addition to the Basilica of Santo Stefano, guided tours of Bologna generally include other famous landmarks, including Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica of San Petronio, the Two Towers, and the Church of San Domenico.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Basilica visitors are required to wear modest attire that covers their shoulders and knees.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside.
- Parts of the complex have uneven flooring and low steps, and may not be accessible to wheelchair users.
- A visit to the basilica complex is especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts.
How to Get There
The basilica is located in the center of Bologna’s historic center, just a short walk east from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers.
When to Get There
Bologna is notoriously hot in the summer and blustery in winter, which is why the city is home to miles of covered porticoes. A visit to the basilica is the perfect respite from the heat and cold, especially since it stays open all day.
The Legend of the Courtyard of Pontius Pilate
Sandwiched between the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro and the Chiesa della Trinità, the quiet Courtyard of Pontius Pilate (Cortile di Pilato) gets its name from the central marble basin, said to be where Pontius Pilate washed his hands after condemning Christ to death. Studies have shown that the basin is a Lombard work dating from the 8th century, but the courtyard’s name has stuck.
Address: Via Santo Stefano, Bologna 40125, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 44
Basilica di Sant'Antonino
The most important church in Sorrento, the Basilica di Sant’Antonino is dedicated to the town’s patron saint. Visit the church during a walking tour of the city to view the sumptuous interiors, St. Antonius’s crypt, and votive offerings of sailors who survived shipwrecks thanks to the intervention of this saint, the patron of rescues.
The Basics
The original Basilica di Sant’Antonino was built in the 11th century, but numerous changes have been made over the centuries, including the addition of a baroque interior and Renaissance facade and belltower.
The best way to visit the church and explore Sorrento’s other top attractions is by joining a small-group walking tour. Wander the picturesque lanes lined with artisan workshops and boutiques and visit the Basilica di Sant’Antonino as well as the Church of San Francesco, Corso Italia, and Piazza Tasso. Sorrento is also a popular day-trip destination from Naples and the Amalfi Coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photography is permitted inside the Basilica di Sant’Antonino.
- Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is required to enter the church.
- Visiting the basilica and town requires a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- The basilica has a number of steps at the entrance and is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Basilica di Sant’Antonino is located along the main street, Corso Italia, in the center of Sorrento. From Marina Piccola, you can either walk up the hill or take a local bus or taxi. The city's transport hub is Piazza Tasso, just a short walk from the basilica, where buses connect to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Herculaneum, and Naples.
When to Get There
The Basilica di Sant’Antonino is particularly interesting to visit on February 14, when the town celebrates the saint’s feast day with religious services and processions. The church also offers a cool respite from southern Italy’s midday heat in the summer.
Legends of Sant’Antonino
Most statues of St. Antonius depict him standing on a sea creature, representing his rescue of a child who had been swallowed by a whale; the two whalebones displayed in the church are said to come from this very creature. Another legend says that the Archangel Michael appeared to Antonino and told him to build a church in Sorrento. In the 11th century, this ancient chapel was replaced with the current basilica, though St. Antonius’s crypt inside was rebuilt in the 18th century.
Address: Piazza Sant'Antonino, Sorrento, Campania 80067, Italy
From $ 57
Basilica Macarena
The chief attraction of the Basilica Macarena is La Macarena, or "the Virgin of Hope," a 17th century wooden sculpture of Christ's mother mourning his death (complete with tears). She's the patron saint of bullfighters, friend to gypsies and star of the Semana Santa parade held in Seville every Easter.
When she passes by in the parade, songs are sung to her beauty and rose petals strewn in her path. In a small museum adjoining the basilica, you can see some of the Virgin's parade array, along with bullfighting relics.
Practical Info
The Basilica Macarena can be reached by taking Line 3 to the Macarena stop, or taking the C2 or C3 bus.
Address: Calle Bécquer 1, Seville, Spain
Hours: Open daily, 9am - 1pm and 5pm - 8pm
Admission: Basilica admission: Free; Treasury admission: € 3
From $ 29
Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
Once the largest basilica in the world, the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is one of four papal basilicas in Rome and among the city’s most important Christian sites. Presumed to be set over the tomb of St. Paul, the church has a striking interior decorated with 80 columns and extensive mosaics.
The Basics
As a papal basilica, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls (San Paolo Fuori Le Mura) belongs to the Vatican—though is not located within the confines of Vatican City—and plays an important role in Catholic jubilee celebrations. In addition to the 19th-century church with its magnificent Gothic baldachin by Arnolfo di Cambio, the complex has a beautiful 13th-century Romanesque cloister built by the Vassalletto family, and an art gallery with some of the works that once decorated the basilica.
The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is a highlight of guided tours of Rome’s major basilicas and early-Christian holy sites, along with St. Peter’s Basilica, Saint John Lateran, and Santa Maria Maggiore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If taking a Christian Rome walking tour, wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
- Catholic churches have a strict dress code, so wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
- Photography without flash is permitted inside the church.
- The basilica, cloister, and art gallery are fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Rome’s Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is located on Via Ostiense, just a short walk from the San Paolo Basilica stop on metro line B.
When to Get There
St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of Italy’s most important Catholic churches, and attracts the most visitors around Easter and Christmas, and on jubilee years.
Papal Portraits
Above the arches that divide the naves at Saint Paul Outside the Walls, there is a row of mosaic medallions depicting each pope from Saint Peter to Pope Francis—the only portrait illuminated, which signifies Francis’ role as the current leader of the Catholic Church.
Address: Via Ostiense 186, Rome, Italy
From $ 70
Basilica di Sant'Agostino
Located near Piazza Navona, the 15th-century Basilica di Sant’Agostino is home to the Cavalletti Chapel, where visitors flock to view Caravaggio’s Baroque masterpiece, La Madonna di Loreto, along with The Prophet Isaiah by Raphael, La Madonna del Parto statue by Sansovino, and the sumptuous high altar by Bernini.
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 of St. Augustine'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.
Address: Piazza di Sant’Agostino 80, Rome, Puglia, Italy
From $ 52
Basilica of San Lorenzo
The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of the most important Renaissance churches in Florence. Commissioned by the powerful Medici family and designed by Brunelleschi, it is home to magnificent sculptural and architectural works by Michelangelo, including the Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee) and the Laurentian Library.
The Basics
The Medicis had the Basilica of San Lorenzo constructed in the 15th century on the site of an older Romanesque church to house family tombs, located in the New Sacristy and decorated by Michelangelo’s monumental statues depicting the reclining figures of Night and Day and Dawn and Dusk. The church is part of a larger complex that also includes Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy with sculptures by Donatello; the Laurentian Library, with a monumental carved staircase leading to the reading room where even the desks were designed by Michelangelo; the cloister, crypts, and treasury; and the Chapel of Princes by Matteo Nigetti.
The Medici Chapels inside the basilica are among the most popular attractions in Florence, so book a tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to avoid long lines. Many Florence sightseeing walking or Segway tours also visit highlights such as the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To enter the church, you must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Large bags and backpacks must be left at the free coat check at the entrance.
- Tickets to the Basilica of San Lorenzo complex include entrance to the Medici Chapel Museum, Medici and Lorenese crypts, Cannon’s Cloister, and Basilica Treasury.
- The Laurentian Library is only open to the public when a special exhibition is being held, and tickets must be purchased separately.
- There is wheelchair access to the ground-floor church and cloister and the chapels above.
How to Get There
The Basilica of San Lorenzo is located on Piazza San Lorenzo, just a few minutes’ walk north of Florence Cathedral (Duomo) or east of the Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
The San Lorenzo Basilica complex is crowded with visitors touring the Medici Chapels during summer; visit in spring or fall for fewer tourists. If visiting Florence on a Sunday or Monday, note that the chapels are closed on the second and fourth Sunday and the first, third, and fifth Monday of every month.
Michelangelo’s Unfinished Facade
The Basilica of San Lorenzo was built by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1419, his first project in Florence and a masterpiece of Renaissance interiors. The rough exterior was meant to be covered by a spectacular facade designed by Michelangelo, but lack of funds and other complications left the church unfinished outside. To see what the facade would have looked like had it been completed, view the scale model in the Casa Buonarroti museum.
Address: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 9, Florence, Tuscany 50123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 3
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
A gleaming retro-Byzantine confection of Roman columns and religious iconography, the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is visible, by design, from almost anywhere in Lyon. Today it is the symbol of the city and Lyon's most visited attraction, well worth the climb just to enter the outrageous interior.
Completed in 1896 as a challenge to secular forces then gaining power in France (like Sacré-Coeur Montmartre), the basilica's gleaming marble, gold gilt, fantastic stained glass, and borderline hallucinogenic ceiling are meant to impress. And they do.
In addition to the basilica and an adjacent chapel dedicated to a particularly miraculous Virgin Mary, both free to the public, this site also offers an observatory, museum, and fantastic views.
Practical Info
To get to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, take the Metro D line to Vieux Lyon, where you can begin your pilgrimage on foot (the sanctuary's resplendent confection facade is visible above Old Lyon). Or, take the Funicular Fourvière, which leaves from the metro station.
Mass is offered in English on the first Sunday of the month, at 9:30 a.m.
Address: 8 Place de Fourvière, Lyon 69005, France
Admission: Free
From $ 81
Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
This impressive 16th-century basilica 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. The church, located in the heart of Rome, contains a meridian line built in the 1700s to predict the exact date of Easter each year.
The Basics
The current Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs) 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.
Address: Via Porziuncola, 1, Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy
From $ 58
Basilica di Santa Chiara
The Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi is dedicated to Saint Clare of Assisi, the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies, today known as the Order of Saint Clare. After she passed away in 1260, Saint Clare’s remains were transferred to the church and buried under the high altar. Her tomb was discovered again in 1850 and eventually, her skeleton was moved to a shrine in a newly built crypt of the basilica. It remains on display today in the east end of the crypt.
The exterior of the basilica is notable for its horizontal stripes of pink and white stone and its campanile, which is the tallest in Assisi. Inside, the walls of the dimly lit nave are now white, although they were covered in frescoes until the 17th century. Elsewhere in the church, frescoes dating to the 13th and 14th centuries still remain. To the south of the nave is a small chapel that holds the 12th century crucifix that is said to have spoken to Saint Francis of Assisi. The high altar is surrounded by a colonnade of 12 polygonal columns that date to the 15th century.
Practical Info
The Basilica di Santa Chiara is located across from the Piazza Santa Chiara between Via Fonti di Moiano and Via Borgo Aretino in the center of Assisi. The church is likely within walking distance of many Assisi hotels, but it also accessible by Bus B, which stops nearby on the Via San Gabriele Dell ‘Addolorata.
Address: Piazza Santa Chiara 1, Assisi, Italy
Hours: Daily 7 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to sunset
From $ 90
Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio
The Romanesque Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio (Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio) is dedicated to Milan's patron saint, St. Ambrose, who founded the church in the fourth century while bishop of Milan. The saint’s remains lay beneath the stunning ninth-century Golden Altar, a masterpiece of gold, gilded silver, precious stones, and enamel. The basilica’s unique architecture makes it a must-see.
The Basics
The Basilica of Saint Ambrogio is among Milan's most important churches, along with the soaring Duomo and Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Many Milan city tours include a visit to all three along with other attractions like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera, Sforza Castle, and Navigli canal district. A hop-on hop-off bus tour, Milan Segway tour, and bicycle-powered rickshaw tour are fun and convenient ways to see Milan's attractions in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The basilica was heavily bombed during World War II and has been extensively restored.
- The Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio is a place of worship, so attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
- The church is accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Milan (Milano) is the capital of Lombardy and one of the most important cities in northern Italy. It is well-connected by train to Florence, Rome, and Venice for an easy day trip, and the Basilica is located in the central Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, a short stroll west from the Duomo and served by the Sant'Ambrogio metro stop on the green line.
When to Get There
The basilica is open daily from 10am to 12pm and again from 2:30 to 6pm; on Sundays, it is closed to visitors in the morning.
Basilica of Sant’ Ambrogio Architecture
One of Milan's oldest churches, Sant’Ambrogio has undergone a number of renovations and embraces an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Partially rebuilt in the 11th century, the basilica has a squat Lombard facade and an atrium lined by two loggias with arches leading to the entrance; intricate Byzantine reliefs decorate the loggia capitals. Interior highlights include the apse mosaic of Christ, the paleo-Christian San Vittore in Ciel d'Oro chapel, and a number of carved pulpits and tombs, including the final resting place of Emperor Louis II. The church's entrance is flanked by two bell towers of differing heights that date from when two monastic orders were housed in the basilica, one in the northern cloister and another in the southern cloister.
Address: Piazza Sant'Ambrogio 15, Milan 20123, Italy
Hours: Varies
Admission: Free. Museum admission: € 2
From $ 25
Basilica Di Santa Croce
The glories of Puglia’s lovely town of Lecce came into being in the 16th and 17th centuries, when peace in the region enabled religious orders and wealthy benefactors, including Emperor Charles V, to transform the town from sleepy backwater to the Baroque gem of southern Italy. The glorious centerpiece of all this gorgeousness is undoubtedly the Basilica di Santa Croce, a swirling mass of ornate Baroque patterning crawling with garlands, statuary, mythical beasts and gargoyles, all fronted with a colonnaded façade that is dominated by a vast rose window.
Work began on this madcap architectural frippery in 1549 on the site of an earlier Celestine monastery, and the basilica was finally consecrated in 1695. Three generations of architects worked on the construction over the decades, with the most notable being Giuseppe Zimballo—better known as Lo Zingarello (the gypsy)who was the star Puglian architect of the period. Along with his sidekick Cesare Penna, he was responsible for the uppermost, and most intricate, level of the basilica.
Built on land confiscated from Jewish citizens, the exterior of Santa Croce is a confection of Baroque detailing but the interior is decidedly plainer and Renaissance in style. Highlights include the coffered wooden ceilings and the fanciful altars in the 17 chapels. Together with the equally splendid and adjacent Palazzo dei Celestini, which was also the work of Lo Zingarello, the basilica forms the architectural high point of a ravishing town center.
Practical Info
The basilica is located at Via Umberto 1, and the site is open daily from 9am to noon and from 5 to 8pm. Admission is free.
Address: Via Umberto 1, Lecce, Italy
Hours: Daily 9am–noon; 5–8pm
From $ 29
Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere
The Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is a church in Rome with an interesting history. It was built on top of three ancient temples, and pieces of these temples were incorporated into the facade of the current church. There are columns and other sections from the Temple of Spes dating back to 250 B.C., a temple that honored Juno from the 2nd century B.C. and rebuilt in 90 B.C., and the Temple of Janus, the god of gates and beginnings, dating to 17 A.D. Unlike most churches in Rome that took columns from other ruins around the city and moved them, the columns in this church still stand in their original location.
Since the ground level was much lower 2,000 years ago, some of the ruins of these temples are now underground. Visitors can take a tour beneath the church to see these ruins, which are older than many other ruins in the city. These ruins are Republican era, making them roughly 500 years older than the imperial era ruins in other parts of Rome.
Practical Info
Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is located at Via del Teatro di Marcello 46.
Address: Via del Teatro di Marcello, 46, Rome, Italy
From $ 80
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella is one of Florence’s most beautiful and—as the city’s first basilica—most important churches. With a striking Gothic-Renaissance facade, interior chapels housing artistic masterpieces, and Dominican cloisters, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is one of the main sights in Tuscany’s capital city.
The Basics
The basilica’s unique green-and-white geometric marble facade, designed by Leon Battista Alberti in the 15th century, immediately draws the eye. Yet the most important art decorates the church’s central nave and a number of chapels inside, most famously the Filippo Strozzi Chapel, the Spanish Chapel, and the Tornabuoni Chapel. Highlights include Masaccio’s Holy Trinity, a crucifix by Giotto, Domenico Ghirlandaio’s Birth of the Virgin Mary, and works by masters like Botticelli, Filippino Lippi, Brunelleschi, Nardo di Cione, and Michelangelo. Adjacent to the church, the Green Cloister was built for the resident Dominican Friars in the 14th century and decorated with frescoes by Paolo Uccello.
With its wealth of architecture and art, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is as much a museum as it is a church, and is best visited with an expert guide to fully appreciate its importance. Walking tours of the historic center can include the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella with other Florentine landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Like most Italian churches, the basilica requires modest clothing covering shoulders and knees to enter.
- No flash photography or videos are allowed inside the church.
- Piazza Santa Maria Novella in front of the basilica is lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for a quick bite before or after visiting the church.
- The basilica is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The basilica is located on Piazza di Santa Maria Novella in the historic center of Florence, just across the street from the main Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, and its sights can be very crowded in the summer. To enjoy the basilica and other sights in relative peace, schedule a visit for spring or fall.
Officina Profumo Farmaceutica
Officina Profumo Farmaceutica, part of the Santa Maria Novella complex, was founded by Dominican Friars around 1221 and is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world. The shop still produces perfumes and natural body products, which you can purchase in the ornate historic sales rooms.
Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 18, Florence, Italy
From $ 27