Basilica di San Lorenzo in Lucina

The Basics

San Lorenzo in Lucina has been standing since the fourth century, and it is believed to have been built on an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Juno. Today, the church is a minor basilica dedicated to Saint Lawrence, a Roman martyr, and little of its original architecture remains. Instead, the building mixes everything from repurposed Roman columns and a 12th-century portico and bell tower to an ornate 17th-century baroque interior with a few 19th-century frescoes interspersed.

See the basilica on walking or Segway tour of early Christian churches and sites, including San Clemente and the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. As San Lorenzo in Lucina is in Rome’s historic center, pair a visit of the church with a tour of nearby highlights, including Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi Fountain.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen on walking tours of Rome.

• Catholic churches in Rome require modest attire to enter: Knees and shoulders must be covered.

• Photography without flash is permitted inside the church.

• The church is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• Those interested in the historic Catholic church appreciate the relics of San Lorenzo (St. Lawrence) housed here.

How to Get There

Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina and its church are located just off the Via del Corso in Rome's historic center, within walking distance from Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna.

When to Get There

Rome is a popular tourist destination, and its main sights can be crowded in summer. Quieter churches like San Lorenzo in Lucina offer a welcome respite during the midday hours when the Vatican and Colosseum are packed.

Who Was Lucina?

The basilica’s name is a mystery, as no one is sure who Lucina was. Some believe she was a pious patrician woman whose home was used as a church, called a “domus ecclesiae.” That said, Lucina was also a name used for Juno, Roman goddess of heaven and protector of Roman women, and it is likely that the church was built on the site of a shrine dedicated to the pagan deity.

Ways to explore

Step beyond the modest Romanesque exterior and experience the layers of history inside, from the Roman to the baroque, paying special attention to the church’s golden coffered ceiling and the works of art and relics hidden among its side chapels. Independent visitors to the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Lucina can take an audio tour to learn more about its history, or arrange a private guided tour on the church’s website in advance. Few city tours incorporate the church into their sightseeing itineraries. Look for tours that focus on Rome’s religious history or consider private tours that allow you to tailor your itinerary.

Accessibility

The Basilica di San Lorenzo in Lucina is accessible for visitors using wheelchairs and strollers.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, but children are unlikely to find much of interest inside.

What to pack

Coins for votive candles, camera

What to wear

Catholic churches in Rome require modest attire to enter: Knees and shoulders must be covered.

Not allowed

This is an active place of worship, so loud and disruptive behavior is not permitted.

Amenities

Audio guides in various languages are available to rent.

Address

Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina and its church are located just off the Via del Corso in Rome’s historic center. The Spanish Steps and many city highlights are within walking distance, and public transportation can help you get relatively close.

Driving

While you can drive to the edge of the church’s square, navigating and finding parking in central Rome is very challenging. Additionally, it’s located within Rome’s restricted traffic zone.

Public transportation

Take the No. 119 bus, which operates in a loop around central Rome, and alight at the Fontanella Borghese bus stop near the church. Spagna station on the A line metro is the closest stop, roughly a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Quieter churches like San Lorenzo in Lucina offer a welcome respite in the midday hours when the Vatican and Colosseum are packed.

Best days to visit

Church services on Sunday can make it hard to visit as a tourist, so visiting on weekdays is best.

Best months to visit

The church is open year-round and is a good stop in summer, as it’s less busy than more well-known attractions.