Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle ( St. Andrew of the Valley)
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II Roma Roma
The Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle stands as a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, shaped by some of the most influential architects of the 16th and 17th centuries. Founded in 1591 through the patronage of Cardinal Alessandro Peretti di Montalto, the basilica’s design began under Gian Francesco Grimaldi and Giacomo della Porta, before Carlo Maderno took over, elevating its majestic dome. The church’s travertine façade, completed in the late 17th century by Carlo Rainaldi, adds to its grandeur.
The interior follows a Latin cross plan, with a spacious central nave flanked by eight towering chapels, each a testament to Roman devotion and artistic excellence. Among these, the "Tosca Chapel" gained fame through Puccini’s opera, serving as the dramatic setting for key moments in the story.
Above, the dome frescoes of Giovanni Lanfranco capture the dynamic spirit of Baroque art, depicting glorious heavenly visions bathed in golden light. As a place of architectural brilliance and sacred devotion, Sant’Andrea della Valle continues to inspire visitors, standing as a testament to the vision of Peretti, the craftsmanship of Maderno, and the artistic genius of Rome’s golden age.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We gather in reflection at the Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle, a tribute to the steadfast faith and dedication of Your apostle, St. Andrew. As this sacred space stands as a testament to the artistry and devotion of Rome’s golden age, so too does St. Andrew's life stand as a beacon of discipleship.
May the majesty of its dome and the serenity of its chapels inspire us to follow St. Andrew's example, embracing our own call to discipleship with fervor and faith. As we gaze upon the frescoes that capture heavenly visions, let us be reminded of St. Andrew's unwavering love for Christ and his mission to spread Your Word.
Through the intercession of St. Andrew, may we be filled with the courage to proclaim the Gospel with zeal and compassion, walking in the footsteps of those who have come before us. Grant us the grace to be living witnesses to Your love, as St. Andrew was, building a world that reflects Your eternal glory.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Chiesa Nuova (S. Maria in Vallicella)
Commonly called the "New Church" in Italian because the new construction replaced the previous church, also called "Santa Maria in Vallicella". The Pope gave the previous church to the Oratorians following the death of St. Phillip Neri, who then rebuilt it as "Chiesa Nuova". It was designed by Dionisio di Bartolomeo in 1592 in the baroque style.
The location is also known as the home of the "Oratory of St. Philip Neri", who were authorized to organize themselves as a congregation at this place by Pope Gregory XIII in 1575, and founded by St. Philip Neri himself. The Rule of the Oratorians was later authorized by Pope Pius V in 1612.
See Also:
Vatican to Piazza Venezia - Self Guided Tour
There is an unwritten rule while on holiday in Rome, "When you see a church, walk inside." Have limited time? This tour is for you!
This walking tour invites you into these great sacred spaces in under an hour and is the fastest route between the Vatican, Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forum. Don't forget to check out the relics of St. Philip Neri, St. Francis Xavier, and the tomb of St. Ignatious of Loyola on the way.
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