Hidden Churches Tour of Rome

Sightseeing  :  Italy  :  Latium And Rome  :  Rome  :  Architecture Tours

Discover the amazing artworks in the city center on this 2.5-hour tour. See the wonderful high-altarpiece of Rubens in Santa Maria in Vallicella church and enjoy the marvelous Borromini's space tricks in Sant'Agnese in Agone church. Let yourself be inspired by the lights and shadows of Caravaggio's painting in San Luigi dei Francesi church.When you think of Rome, you usually think about sensational archeological remains, monumental fountains and amazing churches like St. Peter’s Basilica, but there are many lesser known treasures spread throughout the city. This tour will allow you to discover those wonderful artworks, giving you the history to understand the role of Roman churches during the centuries. Hear about the intersection of  everyday life around which people used to live and learn thanks to the breathless images produced by some of the most important artists of the time such as Caravaggio, Rubens, Piero da Cortona, Beato Angelico,  Francesco Borromini, and Carlo Maderno.

You will go first to Santa Maria della Vallicella, also called Chiesa Nuova. It is the principal church of the Oratorians, a religious congregation of secular priests.

Next is the 17th century Baroque church Santa Agnese in Agone. Sitting off of Piazza Navona with Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers in front of it, it is often overlooked.

You will also visit Santa Maria della Pace, built on the foundation of a pre-existing church,  the Basilica of Sant’Agostino, and San Luigi dei Francesi, which contains several famous works by Caravaggio, including 3 about the life of St Matthew. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and St Louis IX, king of France and is the National Church of France in Rome.