A Treasure Chest of Art on Piazza del Popolo

Overlooking Piazza del Popolo, beside Rome's northern gate, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is one of the city's most extraordinary treasure chests of art: a relatively intimate church that guards masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, Pinturicchio, Bramante, and Carracci. Yet plenty of tourists walk right past without stepping inside. For art lovers, it is an unmissable stop: in just a few square meters you move through the Renaissance and the Baroque at their very peak.

One Basilica, Many Masterpieces

Medieval in origin and enlarged during the Renaissance, the basilica is a succession of chapels and exceptional works:

  • The two Caravaggios in the Cerasi Chapel: the Crucifixion of St Peter and the Conversion of St Paul.
  • The Chigi Chapel, designed by Raphael and completed by Bernini.
  • The frescoes by Pinturicchio and his works in the choir and apse area.
  • Works and architecture tied to Bramante, Sansovino, and Annibale Carracci.

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The Caravaggios in the Cerasi Chapel

For many visitors, the main draw is the pair of Caravaggios: the dramatic Crucifixion of St Peter and the electrifying Conversion of St Paul, masterpieces of light and Baroque realism. We dig into them in the dedicated guide: the Caravaggios of Santa Maria del Popolo.

The Chigi Chapel

The other high point is the Chigi Chapel, a jewel designed by Raphael for the banker Agostino Chigi and completed more than a century later by Gian Lorenzo Bernini: a rare case of two absolute geniuses working in the same space. We devote a full article to it: the Chigi Chapel.

Admission and How to Get There

Admission to the basilica is generally free (a small offering lights up the works; hours are approximate, so check on site). It sits on Piazza del Popolo: for transport options, see how to get to Piazza del Popolo. During services, tourist visits may be limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you see at Santa Maria del Popolo? The two Caravaggios in the Cerasi Chapel (Crucifixion of St Peter and Conversion of St Paul), the Chigi Chapel by Raphael and Bernini, the frescoes by Pinturicchio, and works by Bramante, Sansovino, and Carracci.

Why is it so important? Because a single church brings together masterpieces by some of the greatest artists in history (Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, Pinturicchio): a one-of-a-kind treasure chest of art.

Is there an admission fee? No, entry to the basilica is generally free (with an offering to light up the works). Check the hours and any restrictions on site.

Where is it located? On Piazza del Popolo, beside Rome's northern gate, at the start of the Tridente.

How much time do you need? About 30-45 minutes to take in the main masterpieces, ideally paired with a visit to Piazza del Popolo and the Pincio.

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Article #606 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026