An art treasury overlooking the square

The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, tucked into a corner of Piazza del Popolo beside the gate, is one of the most art-rich churches in Rome. Behind a restrained Renaissance facade it holds two masterpieces by Caravaggio, a chapel designed by Raphael with sculptures by Bernini, and works by Pinturicchio and Sansovino. Admission is free: a rare gift for art lovers.

The two Caravaggios in the Cerasi Chapel

The Cappella Cerasi, to the left of the high altar, holds two canvases by Caravaggio painted in 1601:

  • The Conversion of St Paul (the Conversion of Saul): the future apostle thrown to the ground, blinded by divine light, with the horse looming over the scene. A masterpiece of light and daring foreshortening.
  • The Crucifixion of St Peter: the apostle nailed upside down on the cross, hoisted by his executioners in a raw, overwhelming display of effort.

Between the two canvases, on the altar, an altarpiece by Annibale Carracci completes the "dialogue" among the great painters of the 17th century.

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Raphael's Chigi Chapel

Another jewel is the Cappella Chigi, designed by Raphael for the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi. It is a rare example of a chapel conceived entirely by Raphael as a unified architectural and decorative space, with mosaics from his designs in the dome. It also holds two statues by Bernini (Habakkuk and the Angel, Daniel and the Lion), added later: an encounter between two geniuses a century apart.

The other treasures

The basilica also preserves:

  • Frescoes and decorations by Pinturicchio.
  • Renaissance funerary monuments, some by Sansovino.
  • An apsidal choir designed by Bramante.

Tips for your visit

  • Free admission, as in Rome's churches (respect any services in progress).
  • Bring coins: the Cerasi Chapel with the Caravaggios often has coin-operated lighting.
  • Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered.
  • Pair it with the square and the Pincio: you're already on the spot.

Frequently asked questions

How many Caravaggios are there at Santa Maria del Popolo? Two, in the Cerasi Chapel: the Conversion of St Paul and the Crucifixion of St Peter, both painted in 1601.

What is the Chigi Chapel? A chapel designed by Raphael for the banker Agostino Chigi, with mosaics from his designs and two statues added later by Bernini: an encounter between two greats a century apart.

How much does it cost to enter? Admission is free, as in most of Rome's churches. To light up the Cerasi Chapel and its Caravaggios you may need coins.

Where is the basilica? On a corner of Piazza del Popolo, beside the Porta del Popolo, at the northern entrance to the historic center.

Are there works by other great artists? Yes: alongside Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, the basilica preserves works by Pinturicchio, Sansovino, and Annibale Carracci, plus a choir by Bramante.

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Article #370 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026