Landmark
Built in the 15th century on a site once believed haunted by Nero's ghost, the church's plain exterior gives no hint of the artistic weight inside: the Cerasi Chapel holds two Caravaggio paintings, the Crucifixion of Saint Peter and the Conversion of Saint Paul, while the Chigi Chapel was designed by Raphael. Because it sits just off the busy Piazza del Popolo but rarely appears on quick-stop itineraries, it stays comparatively calm even at peak tourist hours. Art lovers in particular shouldn't skip it, since seeing two Caravaggios in situ, in natural light, for free, is rare in Rome. A short but high-value visit for anyone interested in Baroque and Renaissance painting.
✨ Reasons to go
💡 Good to know
⏱️ Typical visit
30 min
🕰️ Best time
early morning, morning, afternoon or early evening
🚶 Walking intensity
Easy pace
What people say
"This is an unassuming church from the outside but it's full of splendour inside. Situated on a corner of piazza del Popolo, it has a number of very well preserved side chapels inside including the Chigi chapel designed by Rafael. Highlight is the 2 Caravaggios as well as the Berbini sculptures in the Chigi chapel. Visiting times depend on whether it's a working day or holiday - best to check online before making a trip here. Well worth a visit if you're in the area."
— Arash Shaeri
