Basilica di Santa Francesca Romana

The basics

The church of Santa Francesca Romana is the only surviving example of a christian site in the Roman Forum. The church’s official name is Santa Maria Nova, though most locals prefer its less official title. The current building dates in part to the 10th century AD, and occupies part of the site of the great second-century temple of Venus Felix founded by the emperor Hadrian. The dominant travertine marble facade was added in the 16th century.

Inside, visitors can see the huge painting known as Vergine col Bambino (virgin with child). Dating back to the 6th century AD, it’s one of the oldest pieces of Christian art in existence anywhere in the world. The church also contains the preserved remains of Saint Frances, a nun who founded the religious order Olivetan Oblates of Mary in the 15th century, and for whom the church is named.

Things to know before you go

• Entry to the church is free.
• Make sure you take in the church’s elaborately decorated ceilings.
• On St Frances’ feast day – March 9th – Roman residents try to park as close to the church as possible to have their cars blessed for the coming year.

How to get there

Santa Maria Francesca is located within the Roman Forum complex, although it can be visited separately. It’s accessible on foot from the Forum and the Colosseum. Hop-on-hop-off tour buses stop at the edge of the Forum. The closest metro stop is Colosseo on Line B.

When to get there

The church is open daily year-round. As with many attractions in Rome, visitors numbers increase during summer vacation and other holiday periods. The church is lovely and cool and makes a nice break from the weather on Rome’s hottest days.

Visit the National Museum of Rome at Palazzo Altemps

One of four sites that make up the National Museum of Rome, Palazzo Altemps is right in the heart of Rome behind Piazza Navona, but is often not as busy as other attractions in the city. The palazzo itself has grand interiors and a pleasant courtyard, and the museum collection holds a wealth of Greek and Roman sculptures as well as some Egyptian art and artifacts.

Ways to explore

Though it stands separately from the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, the Basilica di Santa Francesca Romana is usually visited in combination with the archaeological site and the nearby Colosseum. Step into the church after your guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, as most visitors only need 10–15 minutes to see the interior. However, some rare sightseeing tours that focus on avoiding Rome’s crowds include the basilica among other scenic, but overlooked, attractions.

Accessibility

The church is not wheelchair accessible, with several sets of stairs leading to its entrance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Coins for votive candles, camera

What to wear

Dress conservatively with knees and shoulder covered, as is expected at Italian churches.

Not allowed

It is a place of worship, so avoid being noisy and drinking or eating inside.

Address

The Basilica di Santa Maria Francesca is located next to the Roman Forum complex, so you can walk there from either the Forum or the Colosseum. Hop-on, hop-off tour buses and the metro also stop nearby.

Driving

While you can drive to the church on Via dei Fori Imperiali, you won’t be able to park at the site. Take a taxi or rideshare instead.

Public transportation

Take metro line B to the Colosseo stop just down the street, or ride the 85 or 87 bus to the Fori Imperiali bus stop outside the Forum.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning before the Forum crowds arrive, or go later for a nice break from the afternoon summer sun.

Best days to visit

Opt for a weekday, since the weekend is likely to be busier with local worshippers, especially during Sunday Mass.

Best months to visit

Rome gets very busy from June to September, so try coming during the shoulder months of April, May, or October instead.

Special events

On St. Frances’ feast day, March 9, Roman residents try to park as close to the church as possible to have their cars blessed for the coming year.