On Tiber Island, the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all'Isola is a church with a quiet interior and a focus on Christians killed for their faith in modern times. Its side chapels hold memorials and personal items connected to martyrs from different continents. Under the main altar, an ancient Roman porphyry sarcophagus contains the relics of Saint Bartholomew. The basilica is a thoughtful stop for visitors interested in religious history, and the island setting gives you a chance to pause beside the Tiber.
A basilica on Tiber Island
Emperor Otto III founded the basilica in 998. It was built on an island with a much older religious history: Tiber Island was associated in Roman times with Aesculapius, the god of healing, and a temple to him once stood on the site. The church’s location continues to set it apart from Rome’s larger, busier basilicas, with the Tiber surrounding the island.
The present façade dates to 1624 and was built by Orazio Torrian. Inside, 24 antique marble columns were taken from Roman buildings on the island. Under the main altar, an ancient Roman porphyry sarcophagus decorated with lions’ heads holds the relics of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle.
Memorials to modern martyrs
The basilica is dedicated to Christians killed for their faith in the 20th and 21st centuries. Its side chapels hold memorials to martyrs from Latin America, Africa, Asia and Europe. Personal objects and testimony give the displays a close human focus, including belongings associated with Oscar Romero and material connected to victims of Nazi persecution.
Take your time as you move through the chapels. The displays tell stories of people who died amid wars, repression and totalitarian regimes. The church’s role as a memorial was established under Pope John Paul II, and the Community of Sant’Egidio was entrusted with it.
Details on the island
The basilica is one stop among several historic sights on Tiber Island. Near the entrance to Ponte Fabricio, the pedestrian bridge connecting the island with the east bank of the Tiber, look for Torre Caetani. The island also has a 12th-century Romanesque brick bell tower.
The church’s calm interior and its memorials invite a slower visit. If you arrive while a service is beginning, allow worshippers space and keep your visit respectful. The basilica is listed as having a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all'Isola?
It is at Piazza San Bartolomeo all'Isola 22 on Tiber Island in Rome.
What can you see inside the basilica?
The side chapels contain memorials and personal items connected to modern Christian martyrs. Beneath the main altar is a Roman porphyry sarcophagus holding Saint Bartholomew's relics.
When can you visit the basilica?
The listed visiting hours are 3:30 to 5:30 PM daily.
