Santa Maria in Montesanto

The name of the church derives from the fact that it replaced a smaller one, that belonged to the Carmelites of the Province of Monte Santo in Sicily. It was built in 1662, on the initiative of Pope Alexander VII, by Cardinal Girolamo Gastaldi, who was later buried there. The original design was the work of Carlo Rainaldi. The works were interrupted on the death of the Pontiff in 1667, then resumed in 1673 under the supervision of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and the cooperation of Carlo Fontana and finished in 1679, except for a belfry that was added in the 18th century.

Amazing church right next to the piazza. Surrounded by crowds, and a lot of commerce. This is a lively area.

One of the two twin churches in the Piazza del Popolo. Dedicated to Mother Mary, the church has beautiful interiors and alter. Very peaceful and worth paying a visit.

Beautiful site, features in Angels and Demons (movie) and is a stunning basilica overlooking the Piazza de Popolo

⛪ Nice architecture. The name of the church derives from the fact that it replaced a smaller one, that belonged to the Carmelites of the Province of Monte Santo in Sicily. It was built in 1662, on the initiative of Pope Alexander VII, by Cardinal Girolamo Gastaldi, who was later buried there. The original design was the work of Carlo Rainaldi. The works were interrupted on the dead of the Pontiff in 1667, then resumed in 1673 under the supervision of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and the cooperation of Carlo Fontana and finished in 1679, except for a belfry that was added in the 18th Century. In July 1825 Pope Leo XII elevated the church to the dignity of Minor basilica.[1] In this church, on 10 August 1904, Angelo Roncalli, the future Pope John XXIII, was ordained a priest; the event is remembered by a plaque affixed during his pontificate. Since 1953 the church has become the seat of the "Mass of the artists", a singular initiative conceived in 1941 by presbyter and art historian Ennio Francia; after changing several places for worship, the liturgical event took place in the church in Piazza del Popolo, where every Sunday, for over sixty years, this Eucharistic celebration has been celebrated with representatives of the world of culture and art. It is also in this church that the funeral of people linked to the world of culture and television is often celebrated. For these reasons, it is also known as "Church of the artists". 🏛 Mimarisi hoştu.

In Piazza di Popolo, two identical churches stand beside each other. The Santa Maria dei Mircoli and the Santa Maria in Montesanto are known as the Twin Churches because of their identical exterior structure. However, if one looks closely and compares both churches technically one will see that there are some slight differences. These churches were originally designed by Carlo Rainaldi as part of a design for a monumental passage of Via del Corso. These constructions were commissioned by Pope Alexander VII while Cardinal Girolamo Gastaldi financed both churches. As a tribute, Gastaldi’s crest is present in each of the twin churches.

Such a beautiful church in piaza del popolo! It is so worth visiting so you can appreciate the magnificent art and experience its unique spiritual atmosphere.

Massive twin Churches, next to each other and next to Piazza Popolo Amazing so large these churches are - a beauty! Lovely at night. Popular for mass or catholic weddings. Lots of nearby restaurants - even late at night. Feels safe and not too touristy. Highly recommend! 💕