Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo stands out as a remarkable place for art lovers. Inside its historic walls, visitors can find an impressive collection of masterpieces from some of the most famous names of the Italian Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Masterpieces by Caravaggio

In a shadowy alcove to the left of the main altar, two celebrated paintings by Caravaggio draw attention. "The Crucifixion of Saint Peter" and "The Conversion of Saint Paul" are both positioned at right angles to viewers, allowing dramatic light and shadow to play across their surfaces. To fully appreciate the details, guests can use a coin-operated lighting machine for a small fee.

Works by Bernini, Pinturicchio, and Raphael

The church also houses a beautiful sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Nearby, frescoes painted by Pinturicchio add color and life to the chapels, while delicate mosaics by Raphael further enrich the artistic atmosphere. Each work offers a glimpse into a different creative period, making the church a showcase for the evolution of Italian art.

Pop Culture Connections

Santa Maria del Popolo has also gained fame beyond the art world. The church appears in the Dan Brown novel "Angels and Demons" as part of the story's tour through Rome. Although filming was not permitted inside, the building’s presence has brought it extra attention from fans of the book and movie.