Basilica dei Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti

One of the most peaceful churches in Rome. It’s really old, dates back to the 4th century. I sometimes bring my clients here for photos if we’re nearby, especially in the morning when it’s quiet. The front of the church has this beautiful, old Roman feel that looks great in photos. It’s not crowded, the light is soft, and the whole place feels calm. Perfect for simple, natural shots with a bit of history in the background.

The basilica was founded by Pope Sylvester I on a site donated by one Equitius (hence the name of Titulus Equitii) in the 4th century. At the beginning it was an oratory devoted to all the martyrs. The interior has a nave and two aisles, divided by ancient columns. A votive lamp, made in silver sheet and housed in the sacristy, was believed to be St. Sylvester's tiara. Under the major altar are preserved the relics of Saints Artemius, Paulina and Sisinnius, brought here from the Catacomb of Priscilla. A mosaic portraying Madonna with St Sylvester is from the 6th century.

Beautiful as all the big ancient churches are here. The unique feature at this one is that you can see where they lowered the floor and added to the bottom of the columns, and you are allowed to go down more than three levels to the original street level from over a thousand years ago.

Basilica dei Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti is a very unique church steeped in history. The church itself is very detailed and intricate, but I really enjoyed the underground area which dates back to the 3rd century and can be explored. It was originally a house and the church was built over that house. It’s very interesting to explore the underground tunnels and rooms. There are a few faded frescos on the underground walls. The shell of the church itself was from the 9th century, but it was remodeled in the 17th century. Even though the major basilicas get way more attention, I really enjoyed exploring this gem.

Beautiful place and often skipped by tourists. Underground chambers from III century with early Christian paintings look stunning

Amazing historic church with underground levels. All passable for free, but I recommend a guide.

If the spectacular interior weren't enough, there are vast underground interiors whose entrance is found under the main altar - as well as a sweet, improvised exhibition of Nativity Scenes from many countries. But the Oscar definitely goes to the "albino" spiders on the spotlight in the lowest subterranean level - something I had never seen before! Ethereal music does the rest.

Not only was the church itself interesting, but the underground Roman structure added to the experience of this place. It mostly feels like an ancient Roman home and a little place of worship (either during the Roman times or converted later, not sure). You really feel history all around you when visiting - highly recommend!