Santa Prassede

The Basilica of Santa Prassede is one of Rome's hidden gems. It is renowned for its exceptional 9th-century Byzantine mosaics, considered among the finest surviving in the city. The main reason to visit the basilica is for the mosaics created during the reign of Pope Paschal I in the early 9th century. They display a strong Byzantine influence and are distinguished by their vibrant gold backgrounds and solemn, symmetrical composition. The Chapel of St. Zeno is a "miracle in itself," richly decorated with mosaics. It was built by Pope Paschal I as a tomb for his mother, Theodora. It is often called the "Garden of Paradise" or the "Byzantine Wonder" of Rome, as the mosaic style here is most closely related to that of Constantinople. The basilica houses an important relic—a fragment of the pillar (Colonna della Flagellazione) to which, according to legend, the Savior was tied during his scourging. It was brought from Constantinople in the Middle Ages. I highly recommend visiting this basilica to anyone interested in early Christian history and mosaic art, and looking for a place to find a "relaxed atmosphere without any fuss."

Just a few steps from the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Church of Saint Praxedes is one of the hidden treasures of medieval Rome. Built in the 9th century under Pope Paschal I, it is dedicated to Saint Praxedes, daughter of the Roman senator Pudens and sister of Saint Pudentiana, both associated with the earliest Christian community in the city. Behind its modest façade lies a dazzling display of Byzantine mosaics, among the finest in Rome. In the apse, the Christ in Glory is depicted surrounded by saints and angels, shining with gold and celestial light — a symbol of the triumph of faith. The church’s most famous site is the Chapel of Saint Zeno, often called the “Medieval Sistine Chapel”, a small oratory covered entirely in glittering mosaics showing Christ, the Virgin, saints, and Pope Paschal I himself, portrayed with a square halo — a sign that he was still alive when the mosaic was created. The church also houses a relic of the Column of the Flagellation, brought from Jerusalem, which can be seen in a side chapel. Visiting Santa Prassede is like stepping back into the mystical atmosphere of early medieval Rome. Its peaceful ambiance, radiant mosaics, and deep spiritual heritage make it an unmissable destination for lovers of sacred art and Christian history.

A smaller church but historical and must visit. Not many people comes here. Do visit and make a donation if you can. Keep your volume low and be respectful to those who are here to pray. Take the time up to 20 minutes to admire this place. From here, walk to the saint Mary main basilica after that.

This is a hidden gem. Unlike most Roman churches, the entrance is almost underwhelming, and if you don’t know where to look, you might walk right past it. And that would be a real shame. It’s just a two-minute walk from the famous Santa Maria Maggiore. It’s very rare to see such beautiful mosaics from the 9th century. The chapel is incredible, and the large mosaics around the altar are truly majestic. The only mosaics that might rival these are in Ravenna, but in Rome, this is almost unique. I can’t recommend visiting this enough. You’ll be amazed.

This Basilica is a must to see while you are in Rome. The beauty of the mosaics and the condition of the frescoes in these early medieval 5th century Basilica are some of the best ones I have seen. The mosaic ceiling of San Zeno chapel is out of this world. You can lit the apse with one euro. It also houses the column upon Jesus was flogged before his crucifixion and is sort of hidden in a small arc. The frescoes are also amazing and in excellent condition. The chapel is only few minutes from Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.

This is such a lovely basilica, few tourists go for some reason, but it is very close to S. Maria Maggiore. There is a portion (genuine or not?) of the pillar at which Jesus was whipped. Quiet and peaceful.

Sweet church a little off the beaten path, and a nice reprieve after visiting St. Peter’s Basilica. The glass mosaics were beautiful. As with any church you visit, bring Euro coins so you can light the mosaics, give an offering, and light candles. They also have postcards and books to purchase.

An ancient basilica with stunning golden mosaics. It is situated near a 5th century church, the remains of which can still be seen. The new one was built between the 8th and the 9th century - times when the Catholic and the Orthodox churches were still one, so it is executed in Byzantine style. Allegedly, the part of a column housed in the basilica is a segment of the pillar upon which Jesus was flogged before his crucifixion in Jerusalem.