The church of the three Caravaggios

The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi is a must-see for art lovers: it holds three Caravaggio masterpieces, the famous St Matthew cycle, in one of Rome's most visited chapels. Tucked into the heart of the historic center between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, it is the national church of the French in Rome. Entry is free, so admiring three Caravaggios without a ticket is one of the city's great opportunities.

Stepping into the Cappella Contarelli and watching Caravaggio's light cut through the darkness is a moment that stays with you. No surprise that, at certain hours, a small crowd gathers before the chapel in reverent silence.

The three Caravaggios of the St Matthew cycle

In the Cappella Contarelli you'll find the three canvases dedicated to St Matthew, painted by Caravaggio between 1599 and 1602:

  • The Calling of St Matthew — the moment Christ summons Matthew, lit by that famous shaft of light.
  • The Martyrdom of St Matthew — the dramatic scene of the saint's killing.
  • St Matthew and the Angel (The Inspiration of St Matthew) — the saint writing the Gospel, inspired by the angel.

These were Caravaggio's first major public commission, and they revolutionized painting. We explore them in depth in the guide the Caravaggios of San Luigi dei Francesi.

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Free entry

Like most churches in Rome, entry to San Luigi dei Francesi is free. To light up the Cappella Contarelli and take in the details of the Caravaggios, there's often a coin-operated lighting system available, so keep a few coins handy. You'll find hours and tips in the guide San Luigi dei Francesi opening hours and entry.

How much time you need

You only need 20-30 minutes for the visit: enough to admire the three Caravaggios and the church's other treasures, like the frescoes by Domenichino. It pairs perfectly with Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and a stroll through the historic center.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see at San Luigi dei Francesi? Above all, the three Caravaggio masterpieces of the St Matthew cycle (The Calling, The Martyrdom, St Matthew and the Angel), in the Cappella Contarelli. The church also holds frescoes by Domenichino.

How much does it cost to enter? Entry is free, as in most churches in Rome. To light up the Caravaggio chapel, you'll need a few coins for the dedicated system.

Where is San Luigi dei Francesi? In the heart of the historic center, between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. It's the national church of the French in Rome.

How much time does the visit take? About 20-30 minutes, enough to admire the three Caravaggios and the church's other treasures.

Can you see the Caravaggios for free? Yes: entry to the church is free. It's worth carrying coins for the lighting that brings out the canvases in the Cappella Contarelli.

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Article #342 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026