Church of Santi Luca e Martina Martiri

The Church of Santi Luca e Martina, also known as the Church of Santa Maria e Luca Martiri, is a stunning Baroque church located near the Roman Forum in Rome. Originally built in the 7th century and dedicated to Saint Martina, a young Christian martyr, the church was later combined with the chapel of Saint Luke, the patron saint of artists. Its current form dates to a major reconstruction in the 17th century led by the famed architect Pietro da Cortona, who transformed it into a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The church features a striking dome, elegant chapels, and a richly decorated interior, showcasing ornate stucco work and symbolic Christian imagery. Beneath the church lies a crypt containing the relics of Saint Martina, reinforcing its spiritual importance. Santi Luca e Martina not only serves as a place of worship but also reflects the artistic contributions of the Roman Baroque era, making it a landmark of faith and art in the heart of ancient Rome.