Have you already visited the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere? The glittering heart of Trastevere is the beautiful Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere which features what is said to be the oldest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Started in 337 AD. the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere underwent a major remodeling in 1138 which saw the addition of the Romanesque bell tower and glittering façade. The portico was subsequently added by Carlo Fontana in 1702.
Inside, the protagonists are the 12th century mosaics which become particularly sparkling when the sun’s rays penetrate the side windows of the church.
In the apse look for Christ and his mother flanked by various saints and, on the far left, Pope Innocent II holding the model of the church in his hand. Below there are six mosaics by Pietro Cavallini illustrating the life of the Virgin (circa 1291).
The building itself incorporates 21 ancient Roman columns, some from the Baths of Caracalla, and its wooden ceiling dates back to the 17th century.
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