On Rome’s Aventine Hill, the Church of St Mary of the Priory, or Santa Maria del Priorato, was designed by Giovanni Battista Piranesi for the Order of Malta. Inside, tombs commemorate the order’s Grand Masters and Grand Priors. The church is also Piranesi’s final resting place. Access for individual visitors is uncertain, so check for a guided tour before making it the focus of your visit. Its setting in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta fits easily into a walk around the hill.
Piranesi’s church on the Aventine
Santa Maria del Priorato stands in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta on the Aventine Hill. Giovanni Battista Piranesi designed the church for the Order of Malta. He is also buried there, making the building his final resting place.
The church is associated with the Catholic order known as the Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, now commonly called the Order of Malta. Its location makes it a natural stop while exploring the Aventine.
Tombs and access
Inside are tombs of the order’s Grand Masters and Grand Priors. Access for individual visits is not assured, and visitor information indicates that entry may be limited to guided tours. Look for tour availability online before setting out, especially if seeing the interior is central to your plans.
The nearby keyhole is a separate stop at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. It frames a view of St Peter’s Basilica through the gardens; it is not inside Santa Maria del Priorato.
FAQ
Can you visit the Church of St Mary of the Priory?
Access for individual visitors may be restricted. Check online for guided tours before you go.
What is inside Santa Maria del Priorato?
The church contains tombs of Grand Masters and Grand Priors of the Order of Malta. Giovanni Battista Piranesi, who designed the church, is buried there.
Where is the keyhole view of St Peter’s Basilica?
It is at the nearby Priory of the Knights of Malta, not inside the church.
