On Via Acciaioli near the start of Via Giulia, this basilica was built for Rome’s Florentine community and is dedicated to John the Baptist, Florence’s patron saint. Its dome, Baroque interior and richly decorated chapels reward a quiet visit. Look for the relic associated with Mary Magdalene and the tombs of architects Carlo Maderno and Francesco Borromini. The church also has an adjoining museum with artworks and documents connected to the Florentine community in Rome.
A church built for Rome’s Florentines
The Basilica of San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini stands on Via Acciaioli, near the beginning of Via Giulia. Dedicated to John the Baptist, Florence’s patron saint, it was built as the church of the Florentine community in Rome. The community was influential during the Renaissance, and the church remains known as the national church of Florence in Rome.
Work began in the 16th century and continued for more than a century, with the building completed in the early 18th century. The design competition drew leading artists of the period, including Raphael, Michelangelo and Sansovino. Different architects shaped the church over the course of its construction, giving the building a history that reaches across several generations.
The dome, facade and interior
The dome is one of the church’s most distinctive features and is a recognizable part of Rome’s skyline. The facade, completed in the 18th century, is topped with statues of saints. Take a moment to look at the exterior before going inside, especially if you approach along Via Paola from Ponte Sant’Angelo.
Inside, a large nave is flanked by side aisles and chapels. Sculptures and artworks fill the interior, including works by Alessandro Algardi and Bernini the Younger. The chapels and decorative details give you plenty to examine at a measured pace. The church is also a calm place to pause, though worshippers may be praying or attending services during your visit.
Borromini, Maderno and the relic
The main altar is among Francesco Borromini’s final works. Beneath it, in the crypt, Borromini is buried beside his mentor, Carlo Maderno. Their resting places connect the church’s religious setting with the history of Baroque architecture in Rome; Borromini’s grave is marked by a modest slab.
A relic associated with Mary Magdalene is kept in the basilica. It is described as a foot relic, and is located toward the front left of the church. The relic, the tombs and the artworks make the basilica a particularly rewarding stop for visitors interested in religious history or architecture.
The adjoining museum
An adjoining museum holds artworks and documents relating to the history of the Florentine community in Rome. Its collection includes busts by Bernini. The museum adds context to the church’s role as a place for the city’s Florentines, alongside the sculptures and architectural details in the basilica itself.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Basilica of San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini?
It is at Via Acciaioli, 2, near the beginning of Via Giulia in Rome.
What can you see inside the basilica?
Look for the chapels, sculptures, artworks, the relic associated with Mary Magdalene and the tombs of Carlo Maderno and Francesco Borromini.
Is there an entrance fee?
The church is described as free to enter.
