Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

The basics

Though its Gothic architecture is unique to the Eternal City, it is the basilica’s art-rich interior that draws visitors. In addition to Michelangelo’s Cristo Risorto, the church is home to 15th-century frescoes by Filippino Lippi decorating the Carafa Chapel (Cappella Carafa), a funerary monument by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and a series of magnificent tombs, including those of Pope Paul IV, St. Catherine of Siena, and Fra’ Angelico, Dominican friar and painter.

The basilica is often included on walking tours of Rome, especially those focusing on works by Michelangelo and other prominent Renaissance artists. Some Rome walking tours pair a cooking class with sightseeing, to experience both the city’s culture and cuisine in one day.

Things to know before you go

• A visit to the basilica is a must for Renaissance art enthusiasts, especially Michelangelo fans.

• Modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is required to enter Rome’s churches.

• Comfortable shoes are recommended if you're visiting as part of a walking tour.

• Photography without flash is allowed in the basilica, and photographers especially enjoy capturing the sumptuous interiors.

• The basilica is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

The Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is located in Piazza della Minerva just north of Via del Piè di Marmo, a short walk from the Pantheon. The closest bus stop is Piè di Marmo.

When to get there

The cool and quiet basilica interior is a welcome respite from Rome's midday heat and the chaos around the Pantheon, so visit during the hottest hours of the day to contemplate the glorious art. Avoid visiting during the 6pm Mass, when tourists are discouraged from lingering.

Michelangelo’s "Cristo Risorto" ("Christ Bearing the Cross")

This sculpture depicting the risen Christ was completed by Michelangelo in 1521 and is carved from a single block of white marble. It was the artist’s second attempt, as a flaw in the marble used for the first version created a black line on the statue’s face. Because of this delay, a student of Michelangelo’s had to finish the work. Decades later, the bronze drapery was added to preserve Christ's modesty after the Council of Trent.

Ways to explore

Steps from the Pantheon, the Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is easy to pass by on walking and golf cart tours of Rome’s top sights, such as the Colosseum and Piazza Navona. To see its art-filled interior, head inside during visiting hours and peruse the baroque chapels and richly decorated tombs. For an expert’s perspective on the basilica, join a guided tour highlighting Rome’s lesser-visited churches and Renaissance gems. These experiences may also include visits to the nearby Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and the Church of Saint Louis of the French, both known for their remarkable artwork.

Accessibility

While the church itself is accessible, the steps at the entrance may be difficult to navigate for visitors using wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, change for offering

What to wear

The Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a Catholic church, so wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.

Not allowed

Talking loudly, touching the artwork

Amenities

Luggage storage options and public restrooms are located a short walk from the church.

Address

Just around the corner from the Pantheon, the Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a short and scenic walk from central Rome highlights such as Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain. It’s also reachable by car and public transportation.

Driving

It is not recommended for visitors to self-navigate around bustling Rome, so call a taxi or use a rideshare app to get to the church from anywhere in the city.

Public transportation

The church is within a 10-minute walk of Piazza Venezia, a transit hub served by the line 8 tram from Trastevere, as well as several buses, including the 40, 51, 70, 85, and 118.

Best times to visit

The cool and quiet basilica is a welcome respite from Rome’s midday crowds and heat, so visit in the early afternoon to contemplate the glorious art.

Best days to visit

While the Basilica di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is always relatively calm, the surrounding streets are busiest on weekends—go on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.

Best months to visit

Rome is often uncomfortably hot from June–September, so visit the city in the cooler months to fully enjoy its indoor and outdoor sights.

Special events

In addition to daily Mass, the church occasionally hosts special services and events for religious holidays and observances, including Christmas and Jubilee.