St Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica is a church in Rome located a short distance from the Pantheon.

The Basilica is famous for housing the remains of several illustrious figures, including Catherine of Siena and the painter Beato Angelico.

Often referred to as the Elephant Basilica due to the iconic obelisk supported by an elephant sculpture in the square in front of it, this church contains within it an invaluable artistic and spiritual heritage.

In the area currently occupied by the St Maria Sopra Minerva and the ancient former convent there were three temples dedicated to Minerva, Isis and Serapis.

Already in the VIII century, next to these temples there was a small church that Pope Zacharias granted to some Basilian nuns who had fled from the East.

Touring St Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica

An essential landmark for visitors is the Carafa Chapel, also known as the Chapel Of The SS Annunziata, frescoed by the famous Renaissance painter Filippino Lippi.

This masterpiece narrates episodes from the life of St Thomas Aquinas and the Virgin Mary, offering a spectacle of colors and intricate details.

But above all, inside the Basilica is the statue of Christ the Redeemer by Michelangelo, a work that embodies the artistic excellence of the Florentine master.

The guided tour of the St Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica will be a real journey inside the most famous Dominican Church in Rome.

As well as one of the very few examples of Gothic architecture in the capital, a place rich in historical and artistic memories.

Booking & Travel

St Maria Sopra Minerva 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.