The basilica in the quiet heart of Trastevere

The Basilica of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere is one of Rome's most enchanting and intimate corners: an ancient church dedicated to St Cecilia, patron saint of music, tucked into the calmest part of Trastevere. Behind a peaceful garden courtyard with a fountain, it guards three artistic treasures from three different eras: the moving statue of the saint carved by Stefano Maderno, the extraordinary Last Judgment frescoed by Pietro Cavallini, and the remains of the Roman house beneath the church, where tradition says the martyr lived and died.

It's a favorite stop for anyone seeking art, spirituality and a slice of Trastevere far from the crowds.

The three treasures you can't miss

  • The statue of St Cecilia by Stefano Maderno (1600), depicting the saint's body exactly as it was found.
  • The Last Judgment by Pietro Cavallini (late 1200s), a masterpiece of medieval Roman painting.
  • The crypt and the excavations of the Roman house, telling the martyr's story.

Dive deeper in our guide on what to see at Santa Cecilia.

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Maderno's statue

Beneath the high altar sits the masterpiece that made the basilica famous: the statue of St Cecilia by Stefano Maderno. The saint is shown lying on her side, just as her body was found during the inspection of 1599: a delicate, dramatic image of extraordinary realism that still moves visitors today. We've given it its own guide: Maderno's statue of St Cecilia.

Cavallini's Last Judgment

A "hidden" treasure is the Last Judgment by Pietro Cavallini (late 13th century), frescoed in the nuns' choir on the upper floor. It's one of the supreme masterpieces of medieval Roman painting, with delicately colored, strikingly modern figures of angels. It's usually visited through a separate entrance with limited hours (see the opening-hours guide).

Admission and how much time you need

Admission to the basilica is free; Cavallini's Last Judgment and the crypt usually ask for a small contribution and keep their own hours. Allow 30–45 minutes for the visit. It pairs perfectly with a stroll through Trastevere and up the Janiculum.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see at Santa Cecilia in Trastevere? Stefano Maderno's statue of St Cecilia (beneath the altar), Pietro Cavallini's Last Judgment (in the nuns' choir), and the crypt with the excavations of the saint's Roman house.

Who was St Cecilia? An early Christian martyr and patron saint of music. Tradition holds that she lived and was martyred in her Roman house, over which the basilica now stands.

How much does it cost to get in? The basilica is free to enter. Cavallini's Last Judgment and the crypt usually ask for a small contribution, with limited hours. Check on site.

How long does the visit take? About 30–45 minutes, including Maderno's statue, the Cavallini, and the crypt. It combines well with Trastevere and the Janiculum.

Is Santa Cecilia crowded? No: it's one of the quietest gems in Trastevere, ideal for admiring its treasures slowly and in peace.

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Article #412 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026