Church of Santa Maria della Pace (Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pace)

The basics

You can visit Santa Maria della Pace independently during its brief open hours or on an art-themed tour of Rome. Choose a tour that focuses on the life and works of Italy’s greatest artists, Raphael and Caravaggio, and view their greatest works in churches across Rome. Santa Maria della Pace is also included in walking tours that focus on hidden landmarks and off-the-beaten-path sights.

Things to know before you go

• The frescos in the Santa Maria della Pace are a must-see for lovers of Renaissance art.
• The Santa Maria della Pace offers a peaceful break from the hustle of Rome.
• Touring the interior of the church requires navigating several steps so it may be difficult for visitors with physical disabilities.

How to get there

Santa Maria della Pace is located in the heart of central Rome, within walking distance of the Pantheon and Campo de' Fiori. Parking is limited in the historic center of Rome, so it is easiest to get there by foot or bicycle. Barberini is the closest metro stop and public buses will get you closer with stops on Via Giuseppe Zanardelli.

When to get there

Santa Maria della Pace has limited, sporadic opening hours. For your best chance of viewing the interior of the church, visit with a guided tour or consult the Rome Tourist Office for current hours.

Where to See Raphael’s Work in Rome

Raphael is widely regarded as one of the three masters of Italian Renaissance art, alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci. To see Raphael’s biggest collection of work, head to the Vatican, where you can tour the expansive frescoed Raphael Rooms. You’ll also find his work in the Palazzo Barberini, Borghese Gallery, and Church of Sant'Agostino. Don’t miss a visit to Raphael’s tomb inside the Pantheon.

Ways to explore

You can visit the Church of Santa Maria della Pace independently during its brief open hours or on an art-themed tour of Rome. The church mostly features on tours focusing on the legacy of Raphael and Caravaggio, two Italian masters whose work is found throughout the city. Thanks to its central location, the church is easy to add to private walking tours of Rome if you arrange it with the guide. Follow up a visit with the nearby Basilica of Saint Augustine, itself home to artwork by Caravaggio.

Accessibility

Several steps lead into the church, meaning there’s limited accessibility for visitors using wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, shawl to cover shoulders

What to wear

This is an active place of worship; dress respectfully by covering your knees and shoulders.

Not allowed

Avoid making noise or attempting to visit as a tourist during religious services.

Amenities

Bookshop and café in the cloister, free Wi-Fi

Address

The Church of Santa Maria della Pace sits in the heart of Rome’s historical center, just off the popular Piazza Navona. Walking or cycling is the easiest way to visit when you’re already in central Rome, but public transportation can help you get there from farther away.

Driving

The historic center of Rome is within a limited traffic zone, and there’s a lack of parking, meaning it’s best to avoid driving here; use a rideshare or taxi if you must come by car.

Public transportation

Senato is the nearest bus stop to the church, on the far side of Piazza Navona, with a mix of city bus routes stopping there. By metro, the Barberini stop on line A is about a 15-minute walk from the piazza.

Best times to visit

The church is generally only open during the mid-to-late morning, so it’s best to check its opening hours in person.

Best days to visit

Visitors wishing to attend Mass can do so on Sunday, but tourist visits are best done during the week. The cloister is open daily, but is also busiest on the weekend.

Best months to visit

All of Rome gets very busy during the peak months of June to September, so visit outside of the summer season for the best chance of a quiet time.

Special events

The Bramante Cloister hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, such as the show “FLOWERS. Art from the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence,” which opened in winter 2025.