Chiesa San Lorenzo in Damaso is a historic church on Piazza della Cancelleria, a short walk from Campo de’ Fiori. It is built into Palazzo della Cancelleria, so there is no separate façade to spot from the street. Inside, take time to look along both aisles for chapels and artworks, including medieval crucifixes and Renaissance forms. The church’s origins are linked to the 4th century, and its quiet interior is suited to a reflective visit. An audio guide is available in exchange for a donation.
A church within a palace
Chiesa San Lorenzo in Damaso stands on Piazza della Cancelleria, near Campo de’ Fiori. Its setting can make it easy to miss: the church is absorbed into Palazzo della Cancelleria and has no distinct façade facing the street.
The church is believed to have begun in the home of Pope Damasus, who is associated with its foundation at the end of the 4th century. Later work under Pope Adrian I and Leo III included bringing the relics of Pope Damasus to the church, where they remain beneath the high altar.
Rebuilding and restoration
At the end of the 15th century, the original basilica was rebuilt and shifted slightly north to make way for Cardinal Raffaele Riario’s palace. The redesign is associated with Bramante, though that attribution is not certain. The church and palace have remained closely connected, and the building later became the headquarters of the papal chancellery.
The church suffered serious damage after it was used as stables by Napoleon’s French army in 1798. Giuseppe Valadier restored it in 1807 and again from 1816 to 1820. Those works removed the sanctuary arrangement created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for Cardinal Francesco Barberini in 1640. Virginio Vespignani carried out further restoration in 1868, bringing back Renaissance forms and undoing much of the later work.
Inside, explore both aisles for chapels and artworks, including medieval crucifixes and Renaissance forms. An audio guide is available for a donation. The quiet atmosphere also gives the church a place for prayer and reflection.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Chiesa San Lorenzo in Damaso?
It is on Piazza della Cancelleria in Rome, near Campo de’ Fiori. The church is incorporated into Palazzo della Cancelleria and has no separate façade.
How old is Chiesa San Lorenzo in Damaso?
Its origins are linked to a foundation at the end of the 4th century. The building was rebuilt at the end of the 15th century and restored in later centuries.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes. An audio guide is available for a donation.
Is advance booking recommended?
Advance ticket arrangements are recommended. The available information does not specify an entry price.
