Santa Maria in Trastevere Situated in the heart of Trastevere, Santa Maria in Trastevere was possibly the first Christian place of worship in Rome. According to legend a natural spring of oil sprung up out of the ground here shortly before the birth of Christ. The original building was probably built by Pope Julius I in the mid-fourth century. The structure you will see today dates from the twelfth century, although it underwent several more recent restorations in the early eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It uses columns from earlier buildings, possibly taken from the Roman baths of Caracalla.
Things to See
The wonderful mosaics date from the late thirteenth century and the work of Pietro Cavallini – they depict various scenes from the life of the virgin. There is also a 7th century icon depicting the Madonna di Clemenza as a Byzantine Empress. In the main portico it is possible to view numerous Latin inscriptions dating from the early Christian era. The crypt is from the ninth century.
Getting There
You can get to Santa Maria in Trastevere either by foot (probably the best way to explore the windy and enchanting roads of the trastevere district) or by tram – take tram number 8 from Torre Argentina and get off after Piazza Mastai. You can then walk along Via S. Francesco a Ripà to the church.
Opening Hours
Santa Maria in Trastevere is open from 7.30am to 1pm and 4pm to 7pm