Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Rome, Italy

1. St. Peter's Basilica

Iconic Roman Catholic Church with an expansive interior and stunning dome; houses the tomb of Saint Peter.

Architectural Marvel: Unique blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles.
Historic Significance: Built on the site where Saint Peter, one of Jesus' apostles, was crucified.
Artistic Treasures: Home to Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's Baldachin.

Massive amphitheater used for gladiatorial contests; now a symbol of the Roman Empire.

Ancient Architecture: One of the most preserved and largest structures of its kind.
Historical Significance: Witness to the bloodiest games in Roman history.
Pop Culture Reference: Frequently featured in movies and documentaries, cementing its place as a global icon.

Ancient Roman temple dedicated to all the gods of pagan Rome; now a church containing the remains of several notable people.

Intact Architecture: Features an original, unrestored concrete dome from the time of its construction.
Historical Importance: First permanent enclosure for a Christian church in Rome.
Artistic Masterpiece: Features intricate frescoes and sculptures from renowned artists.

Baroque fountain famously associated with throwing coins for a future return to Rome.

Iconic Symbol of Rome: Inspiring countless paintings, films, and cultural references.
Historical Context: Designed by architect Nicola Salvi in the mid-18th century.
Mystical Tradition: Legend claims that coins thrown into the fountain guarantee a return to Rome.

The cathedral church of the Diocese of Rome; contains the Scala Sancta (Holy Staircase).

Religious Significance: Official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope.
Historical Artifacts: Houses the relic of the Holy Nail, said to have been used in the crucifixion of Jesus.
Pilgrimage Site: The Holy Staircase, a replica of the steps Jesus is believed to have climbed on his way to judgment, is a popular destination for pilgrims.

Baroque church featuring the famous trompe l'oeil fresco by Andrea Pozzo.

Artistic Masterpiece: Includes an illusionary fresco depicting a vaulted ceiling on the dome.
Historical Context: Founded by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
Iconic Artwork: The fresco, 'The Glory of Saints Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier,' is considered a masterpiece of trompe l'oeil.

A church with multiple layers, showcasing the religious history of Rome from the 4th to the 20th centuries.

Historical Layers: Unique opportunity to explore different periods of Roman history in a single site.
Archaeological Importance: Contains well-preserved frescoes and mosaics from ancient Rome.
Spiritual Journey: Experience the transition from early Christianity to the present day.

An important site for the Catholic Church and home to the Oratory of St. Philip Neri.

Spiritual Legacy: Founded by Saint Philip Neri, one of the most venerated saints of the Counter-Reformation.
Religious Art: Features artworks by artists like Caravaggio and Bernini.
Historical Connection: Plays a significant role in the history of Catholicism and the life of Saint Philip Neri.

A medieval church with an intricate facade and a rich history, once home to St. Augustine of Hippo.

Historical Significance: Connected to Saint Augustine, one of the most influential figures in Western Christianity.
Ornate Architecture: Features a beautifully detailed facade and stunning interior frescoes.
Religious Artifacts: Houses the relics of several saints, including St. Augustine.

The only Gothic church in Rome; houses a statue of Michelangelo's Pietà.

Gothic Architecture: Distinctive design contrasting the predominantly Baroque architecture of Rome.
Artistic Heritage: Houses Michelangelo's Pietà, one of his most famous works.
Interfaith History: Originally a pagan temple dedicated to Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom.

A small Renaissance church with a stunning dome and a history connected to St. Lawrence.

Architectural Achievement: Features an impressive dome supported by a single column.
Religious History: Connected to St. Lawrence, a deacon and early Christian martyr.
Artistic Treasures: Houses artworks by artists such as Raphael, Peruzzi, and Sangallo the Younger.

An ancient basilica located outside the Aurelian Walls; contains the tomb of Saint Paul.

Historical Significance: Houses the relics of St. Paul, one of Jesus' apostles.
Architectural Masterpiece: An example of early Christian and Byzantine architecture.
Spiritual Pilgrimage: A popular destination for Christian pilgrims.

An early medieval church adorned with beautiful mosaics depicting saints and Christian stories.

Artistic Masterpiece: Features magnificent Byzantine-style mosaics.
Historical Context: Built during the Papal election that followed the death of Pope Stephen IV.
Religious Significance: Houses several relics, including a piece of the True Cross.

A medieval church featuring an impressive façade and beautiful interiors, housing the relics of St. Lawrence.

Architectural Beauty: Features a beautifully ornate facade.
Religious History: Connected to St. Lawrence, a deacon and early Christian martyr.
Artistic Treasures: Includes artworks by artists like Botticelli and Perugino.

An ancient basilica dating back to the 4th century; features stunning mosaics and a beautiful facade.

Historical Significance: One of the four major basilicas in Rome.
Artistic Masterpiece: Features beautiful mosaics and a stunning façade.
Religious Importance: Houses several relics, including fragments of the Holy Crib and the veil of St. Veronica.