Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Rome, known as the “Eternal City,” is home to grand basilicas and religious landmarks that attract millions of visitors each year. Yet, beyond the crowds and the famous sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and San Giovanni in Laterano, there are hidden churches filled with history, art, and peaceful corners. For those seeking a more intimate spiritual experience, here’s a guide to some of Rome’s lesser-known yet stunning churches, all within reach of QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast.
1. Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano: A Journey Through Time
This church is a fascinating time capsule with its three levels spanning centuries of Roman history.
- What to See:
- The medieval basilica has beautiful mosaics and frescoes.
- The 4th-century church below, where early Christians once worshipped.
- The ancient Mithraeum (a temple dedicated to the god Mithras) in the lowest level, showcasing the city’s pagan past.
Why visit: You’ll get a unique glimpse of how Rome was built layer upon layer over time.
Location: About 30 minutes from QuodLibet B&B by metro and a short walk.
2. Santa Maria della Vittoria: Bernini’s Masterpiece
A small yet stunning baroque church, Santa Maria della Vittoria is famous for one of Bernini’s greatest sculptures:
- Highlight:
- The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa: Bernini’s dramatic depiction of Saint Teresa of Ávila’s vision, full of emotion, movement, and divine light.
Why visit: For lovers of Baroque art, this is an unforgettable stop.
Location: Just 20 minutes from QuodLibet by metro to Repubblica station.
3. Sant’Ignazio di Loyola: The Church of Illusions
Step inside this church and prepare to be amazed by the art of illusion.
- What to See:
- The faux dome was created by artist Andrea Pozzo, who used an incredible trompe-l’œil technique to create the illusion of a dome on a flat ceiling.
- Lavish frescoes celebrating Saint Ignatius and the Jesuit order.
Why visit: This church is a masterclass in Baroque artistry and optical illusion.
Location: 25 minutes from QuodLibet via metro and a short walk.
4. San Luigi dei Francesi: Caravaggio’s Chapel of Light
For fans of Caravaggio, this church is a treasure trove.
- Highlights:
- The Contarelli Chapel, is home to three Caravaggio masterpieces depicting the life of Saint Matthew.
- The dramatic contrast of light and shadow in Caravaggio’s paintings is a signature of his artistic genius.
Why visit: You’ll be standing mere inches from world-famous art in a serene, spiritual setting.
Location: Just 20 minutes from QuodLibet by metro to Spagna or Flaminio station.
Tips for a Peaceful Visit
- Visit early in the morning: Most churches open early and are less crowded before 10 AM.
- Check for concerts: Some churches, such as Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, host evening concerts featuring sacred music.
- Respect the dress code: Like all churches in Rome, modest attire is required (shoulders and knees covered).
Why Stay at QuodLibet B&B for Your Spiritual Exploration
Our bed and breakfast in Prati, just a 10-minute walk from the Vatican, is the perfect base for discovering the spiritual and artistic wonders of Rome. Start your day with a freshly prepared continental breakfast on our sunlit terrace before setting out to explore these hidden gems. Thanks to the nearby Ottaviano metro station, you can easily navigate the city’s historical sites while enjoying the tranquillity of our welcoming accommodation.
