Nestled quietly in Rome, Santa Pudenziana stands as one of the city’s oldest churches, carrying with it the echoes of centuries past. Although the saint for whom it is named was removed from the official Roman Catholic calendar in 1969 due to scant historical records, the church itself preserves her legacy through its enduring name and remarkable artistry.
Santa Pudenziana is perhaps best known for its breathtaking 4th-century mosaic, a rare and exquisite example of early Christian art. The vibrant mosaic adorns the apse, depicting Christ among the apostles in a rich tableau of color and symbolism that has fascinated art historians and visitors alike for generations. The intimate space of the church allows for an up-close appreciation of this ancient masterpiece, making it a must-see for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
The church’s charming facade is adorned with attractive decorations that hint at the layers of history within. While Santa Pudenziana may be small, its quiet beauty and spiritual significance invite reflection and exploration. Visiting hours are limited, so planning ahead is essential. Arriving just before 11:30 may offer a unique opportunity — if the attendant is present, a polite request might grant a few precious minutes inside, enough time to take in the highlights and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Most visitors find that 15 minutes is sufficient to fully appreciate everything this hidden gem has to offer.
Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Pudenziana
Between the Pantheon and Via del Corso. A stunning example of Baroque art. The ceiling frescoes are especially fine, including a trompe l'oeil dome by the master Andrea Pozzo.
Rome's museum of contemporary art, housed in a former industrial complex. Rotating exhibitions, each one usually lasting about 4 months. The MACRO Testaccio exhibition space is located in Aventino-Testaccio.
Ballroom-like church which crowns part of the Capitoline Hill. Don't be fooled by the plain stone exterior.
This is an important place of pilgrimage for Catholics because of the supposedly miraculous powers of an image of the Virgin Mary. The first miracle was in 1740 when a traveller being attacked by a pack of dogs called out to the Virgin’s image for rescue and the dogs calmed down. The image was moved to Rome in the Second World War and is credited with saving the city from destruction, as a result of which Romans vowed to construct this new sanctuary.
Built after 1631, the crypt of the church contains a macabre display - a series of chapels decorated with the bones of 3700 dead friars. The bones are glued to the walls and ceilings in bizarre and striking decorations.
Romans and leaders of Rome's defeated enemies were imprisoned here where they either died of starvation or strangulation. According to legend, St. Peter was also imprisoned here.
Contains the ruins of several large villas that belonged to wealthy Roman families. You can buy a combined ticket for the Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum here, avoiding the long lines at the Colosseum. While the Imperial and Roman Fora are probably more spectacular, overall, there are amazing sights on the Palatine Hill, so unless you are terribly short on time or find it too challenging to climb the hill, allow an hour or more for these sights, too.
Brand new museum designed to celebrate the art and architecture of the 21st century.
The enormous building at the southeast end of the Circus Maximus is the headquarters of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). From its roof are undoubtedly the best views of Rome, but you will need to know someone who works there to get past the strict security.
housed in the baroque palace Corsini where Christina, Queen of Sweden settled down in the last years of her life
This archaeological site displays the thermal baths of the villa of the wealthy Herod Atticus. Also in the complex is a restored villa, until 2002 a private residence, that has an exterior completely covered with pieces from Roman ruins, including pipes used in the baths. There are some very helpful staff to show you around, although they only speak Italian. An interesting photographic exhibition in the house traces the development of the Appian Way over the last century. Almost opposite the entrance to the baths is a ruined tower known as the Torre di Capo di Bove.
Next door to Santa Croce. A collection of around 3000 pieces, although only a third of these are displayed.
The western end of the ancient Via Appia road connecting Rome to Brindisi in the heel of Italy, and as such the third world heritage site in Rome together with the Old Center and the Vatican. As such it's an important historical location, even if the remains of the gate aren't as impressive as the city's major sites. As Via Appia heads southeast out of Rome, and after a few kilometers the route is officially named Via Appia Antica and starts looking more historical: it gets narrow as a city street, the asphalt is replaced by a rock surface and the road is lined with parks and park-like areas and walled old buildings. This section has been described as the world's longest museum.
A strange building, constructed by Reginald Pole, an English cardinal and later Archbishop of Canterbury, allegedly on the spot where he was able to escape from assassins sent by the English King Henry VIII.