The Basilica stands in the heart of the Trastevere district and its construction has a very long history that began in 340 when it was erected by San Giulio I.

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, is a monument of great charm and attraction for tourists and pilgrims of the city of Rome.

Constitutes the heart and historical point of reference of the Trastevere district.

Legend has it that it was built on the site where, in 38 BC, a jet of oil, the divine “fons olei”, gushed from the ground.

A premonitory sign of the coming of Christ, the Anointed of the Lord.

It was rebuilt by Pope Innocent II between 1130 and 1143.

Further embellishments and additions date back to the XVI and XVIII centuries, up to the restoration works of the last century, commissioned by Pope Pius IX.

The XII century building is built in Romanesque style, as is the multi-storey bell tower, decorated with a sacred image of the Madonna and later with a large clock.

Touring St Maria In Trastevere Basilica

Interior of the Basilica is known for its important mosaics, especially those of the facade and those of the apse, made by Pietro Cavallini.

It represent scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.

The ceiling is coffered and the naves are divided by columns, some of which come from the Baths of Caracalla, which add a touch of majesty to the building.

The facade is preceded by the portico designed by Carlo Fontana where you can see fragments of friezes from the ancient basilica and Christian epigraphs.

Is surmounted by a balustrade decorated with statues of four Popes.

In the left nave, the chapel of the Ávila Family by Antonio Gherardi presents an original baroque architecture that plays with the chiaroscuro of the light filtered by a double dome.

The beauties of the temple do not end in the Basilica hall, but are also found in the Sacristy.

At the entrance of which you can admire two small mosaic paintings from the Roman era, various ancient inscriptions and a small sarcophagus.

Guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere will allow you to admire one of the oldest churches in the capital.

Most likely the first place of Christian worship built in Rome and the first ever to be dedicated to the Virgin.

Booking & Travel

St Maria In Trastevere Basilica wheelchair accessible tours.

Unmissable visit at it with our Rome Accessible Tours.

Specifically tailored to wheelchair users, reduced mobility persons with an adapted transport.