Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone (Chiesa di Sant'Agnese in Agone)
Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima 30A, Rome, Italy, 00186
The 17th-century Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone (Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone) in Piazza Navona was once the personal chapel of Pope Innocent X, who lived in the Palazzo Pamphili next door. A dazzling example of baroque architecture, the church is known for its frescoed ceilings, sculptures, altars, and marble work. Dedicated to Saint Agnes, who was martyred on this spot, the church displays her skull alongside a marble relief; her body lies within its massive crypt.
The Basics
It was here in Piazza Navona, inside the ancient stadium built by Emperor Domitian, where Saint Agnes was martyred as a young girl. Dedicated to her memory, the church displays her skull alongside a marble relief carved by Alessandro Algardi. Her body lies within the church’s massive crypt, which is worth a visit.
Travelers may enjoy Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone (and even a live concert at the Borromini Sacristy) as part of a half-day, full-day, private or group tour with different modes of transport (walking, Segway, hop-on hop-off river cruise, gold cart, electric bicycle) and focusing on themes like Baroque architecture, squares and fountains, or sightseeing major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican museums.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Suitable for art and architecture buffs of all ages.
- The church is free to enter and wheelchair-friendly.
- Remember to wear modest clothing when entering this and any other religious space in Italy.
- Tours may include round trip hotel transfers. Check specific tours for details.
How to Get There
Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone is located at Piazza Navona in the center of Rome just behind the famous Bernini fountain “The Four Rivers.” Take a taxi, drive or take bus #64 to Corso Vittorio Emanuele/ Navona stop or the #70 to the Senate stop. The church is easy walking distance from many sites including the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, and the Egyptian obelisk at Piazza del Popolo.
When to Get There
The Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone is open Monday - Friday, 9am - 7pm (closes 1pm - 3pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 9am - 8pm (closed 1pm - 3pm). Religious services are normally Saturday 7pm and Sunday 2:15pm and 7pm; check schedules beforehand. Come during the week to have a more serene visit or come for an evening of Baroque music. Concerts in the church’s Borromini Sacristy feature live singers and an architectural tour.
What’s Inside
Designs changed hands several times over the course of construction, with the church’s most distinctive features created by Francesco Borromini, such as the concave facade with opposing curved lines and the two bell towers made low for clear views of the cupola. The interior is shaped in a nearly circular Greek cross design and is surrounded by marvel masterworks depicting martyred saints. Notably a women-centric church, the dome is frescoed with the “Assumption of Mary” by Ciro Ferri.
Ways to explore
You can prebook tickets or buy them at the church. Most independent visits take 20 minutes, while guided tours last one hour. You can also visit the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone on a private or small-group historic center tour on foot, by bike, via golf cart or tuk-tuk, or with a driver. Most Rome sightseeing tours include a stop in Piazza Navona, where the church is located, to admire its facade. To explore the interiors, choose a tour focusing on Rome’s baroque architecture, squares, and fountains. Alternatively, attend a classical or religious music performance at the Borromini Sacristy.
Accessibility
Although the facade of Sant’Agnese in Agone is visible from the accessible Piazza Navona square, the church has a flight of steps at its entrance.
Age limits
There is no minimum age to enter.
What to pack
Binoculars, camera, euros to enter the crypt
What to wear
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to enter all Roman churches.
Not allowed
Visitors may enter during Mass, but take care not to disturb worshippers.
Amenities
Information panels in English and Italian about the church’s artworks are located inside the church.
Address
The Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone is located at Piazza Navona in the center of Rome, just opposite Bernini’s landmark Fountain of the Four Rivers. The church is within easy walking distance from many sites in the historic center, and there are two bus hubs nearby.
Driving
The narrow, 1-way streets and restricted traffic around Piazza Navona make reaching the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone by car a chore. Walk or take public transportation instead.
Public transportation
Piazza della Cinque Lune and Largo di Torre Argentina are the two closest transport hubs, with several city bus stops and taxi stands.
Best times to visit
The church closes at midday, so visit in the morning or after 3pm to avoid disappointment.
Best days to visit
Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days of the week, while weekday mornings are quiet inside the church.
Best months to visit
The Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone is an ideal respite from the scorching summer heat or a wet winter day, but the church is an all-season attraction.
Special events
The Borromini Sacristy hosts chamber music, opera, baroque music, and Vivaldi classics concerts. Check the church website for upcoming performances.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!