Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Saint Mary above Minerva, Latin: Sancta Maria supra Minervam) is one of the major churches of the Roman Catholic Order of Preachers (better known as the Dominicans) in Rome, Italy. The church's name derives from the fact that the first Christian church structure on the site was built directly over (Italian: sopra) the ruins or foundations of a temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, which had been erroneously ascribed to the Greco-Roman goddess Minerva (possibly due to interpretatio romana). The church is located in Piazza della Minerva one block behind the Pantheon in the Pigna rione of Rome within the ancient district known as the Campus Martius. The present church and disposition of surrounding structures is visible in a detail from the Nolli Map of 1748. While many other medieval churches in Rome have been given Baroque makeovers that cover Gothic structures, the Minerva is the only extant example of original Gothic architecture church building in Rome. Behind a restrained Renaissance style façade the Gothic interior features arched vaulting that was painted blue with gilded stars and trimmed with brilliant red ribbing in a 19th-century Neo-Gothic restoration. The church and adjoining convent served at various times throughout its history as the Dominican Order's headquarters. Today the headquarters have been re-established in their original location at the Roman convent of Santa Sabina. The titulus of Sanctae Mariae supra Minervam was conferred on 28 June 2018 to Cardinal António Marto.
Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Tours and Tickets
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Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Saint Mary above Minerva, Latin: Sancta Maria supra Minervam) is one of the major churches of the Roman Catholic Order of Preachers (better known as the Dominicans) in Rome, Italy. The church's name derives from the fact that the first Christian church structure on the site was built directly over (Italian: sopra) the ruins or foundations of a temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, which had been erroneously ascribed to the Greco-Roman goddess Minerva (possibly due to interpretatio romana). The church is located in Piazza della Minerva one block behind the Pantheon in the Pigna rione of Rome within the ancient district known as the Campus Martius. The present church and disposition of surrounding structures is visible in a detail from the Nolli Map of 1748. While many other medieval churches in Rome have been given Baroque makeovers that cover Gothic structures, the Minerva is the only extant example of original Gothic architecture church building in Rome. Behind a restrained Renaissance style façade the Gothic interior features arched vaulting that was painted blue with gilded stars and trimmed with brilliant red ribbing in a 19th-century Neo-Gothic restoration. The church and adjoining convent served at various times throughout its history as the Dominican Order's headquarters. Today the headquarters have been re-established in their original location at the Roman convent of Santa Sabina. The titulus of Sanctae Mariae supra Minervam was conferred on 28 June 2018 to Cardinal António Marto.
Overview
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- A visit to the basilica is a must for Renaissance art enthusiasts, especially Michelangelo fans.
- Modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is required to enter Rome’s churches.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended if visiting as part of a Rome walking tour.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the basilica, and photographers especially enjoy capturing the sumptuous interiors.
- The basilica is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
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For Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
- Speech To Text
Access for Seniors
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Recommended time for visit мore than 3 hours
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
- Physical difficulty level - 3
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Can have severe slope, cobblestones, and/or gravel
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
- Exhibit height - 3
- Not accessible for wheelchair and Electric scooters
- Accessible Toilet
Access for Visually Impaired
- Braille description
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
Welcome to the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, a hidden gem in the heart of Rome that will take you on an emotional journey of visitation. As you approach the towering facade of the basilica, you can hear the gentle chime of bells resonating through the air, inviting you to step inside and explore a world of wonder and spirituality.
Upon entering, you are immediately engulfed in a sense of awe as the grandeur of the interior unfolds before you. The soft glow of candlelight dances off the gilded ceilings, casting a warm and ethereal light that fills the space with a sense of reverence and tranquility.
As you walk through the nave, your footsteps echoing softly against the ancient marble floors, you are surrounded by a symphony of scents - the heady aroma of incense mingling with the subtle fragrance of aged wood and polished metal, creating a sensory feast that transports you to another time and place.
Take a moment to pause before the High Altar, where a stunning masterpiece by Michelangelo, the Cristo della Minerva, stands proudly, its delicate features and graceful lines evoking a sense of serenity and grace. The sheer skill and emotion captured in the sculpture are almost palpable, as if the very stone itself is infused with life and spirit.
As you continue your journey through the basilica, you come across the Chapel of Saint Catherine, a place of quiet contemplation and reflection. The hushed murmur of prayers fills the air, mingling with the gentle rustle of robes and the soft shuffle of feet, creating a sense of intimacy and connection that is both comforting and profound.
Finally, make your way to the Cloister of the Dominican Fathers, a hidden oasis of peace and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The gentle gurgle of the fountain provides a soothing backdrop to the chorus of birdsong, creating a sense of harmony and balance that lulls your senses into a state of blissful relaxation.
As you reluctantly bid farewell to the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, you carry with you a sense of peace and renewal, your heart and soul enriched by the beauty and spirituality of this sacred place. Allow yourself to be carried away by the emotions that have been awakened within you, and let the memory of your visit linger long after you have left.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva in Rome does not specifically advertise audio descriptive guides or sensory-friendly hours on its website. It is recommended to contact the basilica directly or inquire upon arrival to see if these services are available.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is a hidden gem in the heart of Rome, often overshadowed by larger and more famous churches in the city. Local writers and artists are drawn to this unique basilica for its stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance.
One local writer, Francesco, shares his perspective on the basilica: "Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is a place of quiet contemplation in the bustling city of Rome. The juxtaposition of the Gothic exterior with the Baroque interior is truly striking, and the artwork inside, including Michelangelo’s Risen Christ sculpture, is both beautiful and thought-provoking."
Local artist Giulia also finds inspiration in the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva: "As an artist, I am captivated by the beauty and grandeur of this basilica. The play of light and shadow, the intricate details of the stained glass windows, and the ornate decorations all provide endless inspiration for my paintings. I love to sketch inside the basilica, capturing the timeless beauty of this sacred place."
Visitors to the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva can also experience its historical significance through the eyes of local guides who are passionate about sharing the stories and secrets of this hidden gem. Exploring the basilica with a local guide can provide unique insights into its art, architecture, and the important role it has played in Rome’s history.
Overall, the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva offers a peaceful and enriching experience for both locals and visitors alike. It is a place where art, history, and spirituality come together, creating a truly special and unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Rome.
### Directions and Transportation:
- Address: Piazza della Minerva, 42, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
- Public Transportation: The nearest metro station to Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva is "Spagna" on Line A. From there, it’s a short walk to the basilica. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
### Accessibility:
- The basilica is wheelchair accessible, with ramps provided at the entrance. It’s recommended to inform the staff upon arrival if any special assistance is needed.
### Ticket Booking and Discounts:
- Tickets: Entry to the basilica is generally free, but donations are welcome.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours may be available for a fee. It’s advisable to check in advance for schedules and booking procedures.
- Discounts: Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and large groups. Proof of eligibility may be required.
### Local Amenities:
- Parking: Limited street parking may be available in the surrounding area. Paid parking lots/garages can be found nearby.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are available inside the basilica for visitors.
- Dining Options: There are cafes, restaurants, and gelaterias in the vicinity catering to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.