Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs

Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs

The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs is located in Rome, Italy. It is a Catholic minor basilica and a titular church led by a Cardinal Priest. It was built within the former frigidarium (cold bath) of the Baths of Diocletian. During the period of the Kingdom of Italy, the basilica served as the official national church and state funerals continued to be held here.

This basilica, with a plain exterior and magnificent interior, was constructed starting in 1562. It measures 128 meters in length and 105 meters in width, and is dedicated to both known and unknown Christian martyrs. Its marvel lies in the absence of a true façade — the simple entrance is set at the back of the main hall of the ancient baths, within a semi-circular apse at the rear of the church. The church is laid out in a cruciform shape, with small chapels built at the ends of both wings. A striking Romanesque structure, 90.8 meters long and 28 meters high, is located along one of the basilica’s massive arches. Due to the raised floor, the red Roman granite columns inside the church were shortened, allowing the side spaces and one of the wings to connect seamlessly. Michelangelo designed the side aisles to be 27 meters wide, resulting in large cubic spaces at both ends.

In 2006, Polish-born sculptor Igor Mitoraj created new bronze doors and a statue of St. John the Baptist for the church.

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Must-visit reason: One of Rome’s most prestigious basilicas

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Italy[Italy]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Lazio Region [Lazio Region]

City where the attraction is located: Rome [Rome]