Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
42 Piazza della Minerva Roma
The Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, one of Rome’s only two Gothic churches, stands as a sacred space of devotion, history, and Dominican tradition. Built atop the ruins of a temple dedicated to Minerva, the basilica has undergone centuries of transformation, becoming most widely known as the resting place of Saint Catherine of Siena, Doctor of the Church and patroness of Italy.
At the entrance, pilgrims are greeted by a distinct obelisk, supported by an elephant-shaped base crafted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The current basilica, begun in 1280, has seen many renovations, yet remains one of the oldest Dominican churches in Rome. Within its sacred walls lies the body of St. Catherine, enshrined beneath the high altar, where she continues to inspire devotion. Nearby rests Blessed Fra Angelico, the Dominican painter whose works captured the beauty of Christian faith. A side altar holds the crucifix that, according to tradition, spoke to St. Camillus of Lellis, encouraging him to found the Camillians, a religious order dedicated to the care of the sick.
The Order of Preachers, who have safeguarded the basilica for centuries, continue their tradition of praying the Liturgy of the Hours in the church three times daily. As a place of prayer, history, and Dominican spirituality, Santa Maria sopra Minerva remains a sanctuary where the lives of saints, scholars, and artists converge in devotion to God.
Prayer
O Lord, as I enter Santa Maria sopra Minerva,
a place of devotion and Dominican tradition,
I bring my heart to You in reverence.
Guide me by the example of St. Catherine of Siena,
and let the beauty of Blessed Fra Angelico's work
inspire my faith.
Bless the Order of Preachers,
and grant me the grace to join in their sacred prayer,
finding strength and hope in Your love.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
As one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore shares Santa Maria Sopra Minerva’s strong Marian devotion. Both churches preserve early Christian traditions while incorporating later Baroque influences in their chapels and altars.
See Also:
Best of Art in Rome's Churches - Self Guided Tour
Religious paintings and sculpultures are typically meant to be viewed in sacred spaces. Rome's churches hold worldclass works from the Renaissance and Baroque period's greatest artists. These works still remain in the places for which they were initially intended. They enrich the atmosphere around the liturgy, and they help guide the prayer experience calling to mind moments of the Gospel and Lives of the Saints. Here are some key places to visit in Rome to get you started.
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