Santa Maria in Aracoeli

Welcome, seekers of history and art, to the very summit of the Capitoline Hill. You have just completed a significant physical effort to reach the magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary of the Altar in Heaven, widely known in Italian…

Before we delve fully into the nave, let us pause to reflect on the monumental ascent you just completed to arrive here. The incredibly steep, imposing flight of exactly one hundred and twenty-four marble steps leading up to the…

Now, step fully into the grand nave of the basilica and look immediately to your left and right. The central aisle is lined by twenty-two massive, ancient Roman columns. …

Tear your eyes away from the mismatched columns and look straight up. You will be instantly dazzled by the magnificent, brilliantly gilded, coffered wooden ceiling pressing down from above. …

Let us lower our gaze back down to the magnificent floor, covered in beautiful, geometric Cosmatesque mosaics. But be careful where you step. …

Venture now into the south aisle, and step inside the very first chapel. Prepare to be surrounded by a spectacular, enchanting treasure trove of Renaissance artistry. …

Finally, we arrive at the Capella del Santissimo Bambino, a chapel constructed in the late nineteenth century. It houses one of Rome's most cherished and deeply venerated devotional images: a small statue of the infant Christ,…

As we conclude our tour of Santa Maria in Aracoeli and prepare to descend the great marble staircase back into the modern city, take a moment to reflect on the incredible density of history packed within these brick walls. You…