Church of Santa Maria dell'Archetto
41 Via di S. Marcello Roma
Nestled in the heart of Rione Trevi, the Sanctuary of Madonna dell’Archetto holds the distinction of being the smallest church in Rome. Built in 1851 by architect Virginio Vespignani, this intimate neo-Renaissance chapel enshrines a miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary, originally commissioned in 1690 by Marquise Alessandra Mellini Muti Papazzurri. According to tradition, in 1796, the image of the Blessed Virgin was witnessed moving its eyes, a sign that inspired great devotion among the faithful.
The Latin cross interior features a gilded stucco ceiling, polished marble floors, and angelic caryatid sculptures crafted by Luigi Simonetti. The small yet elegant dome, adorned with gilded friezes and sacred paintings, is the work of Costantino Brumidi, best known for his frescoes in the dome of the U.S. Capitol.
Recognized as a national artistic treasure, the sanctuary has been cared for by the Jesuits and, since 1918, by the Primaria Società Cattolica Promotrice di Buone Opere. Despite its small size, Madonna dell’Archetto remains a hidden spiritual gem, inviting visitors to step away from the city's bustle and experience a moment of peaceful devotion in Rome’s most intimate place of worship.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We turn our hearts to the Sanctuary of Madonna dell’Archetto, a serene refuge nestled within the vibrant life of Rome. In this smallest of churches, we find a powerful reminder of Your presence in the quiet and humble places of our lives.
As we reflect on the miraculous painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we be inspired by the devotion it has stirred in so many hearts. Let the story of her moving gaze remind us of Your constant watchfulness and care for each of us.
In this chapel, where gilded friezes and sacred paintings echo the beauty of Your creation, may we find peace and a renewed sense of devotion. As St. Andrew followed Your call with immediacy and fervor, help us to embrace our own call to holiness, seeking Your will with open hearts.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Andrew, may we be granted the grace to live lives of quiet faith and profound love, sharing the peace we find in Your presence with all we meet.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Basilica dei Santi XII Apostoli
The early church was founded by Pope Pelagius I in the middle of the 6th Century and was initially only dedicated to the two apostles buried in the crypt. In 1348, an earthquake severely damaged the structure. It was restored by Pope Martin V in the middle of the 15th Century as his family, the Colonna Family, owned major properties in the neighborhood.
See Also:
Trevi Fountain and Best of the Neighborhood - Walking Tour
Trevi is one of 23 Rioni in Rome and takes its name after the Latin word Trivium, meaning "Three Streets". During the time of ancient Rome, the zone was known for its monumental buildings and private palaces. When Napolean occupied Rome in the early 19th Century, Quirinal Hill in this neighborhood became the center of power in the city.
Today, it is famous for the Trevi Fountain, Madonelle that mark street corners, and various baroque churches.
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