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Santa Maria in Domnica: A Carolingian Gem on the Caelian Hill

Discover a hidden gem on Rome's Caelian Hill: Santa Maria in Domnica, a basilica with ancient roots, Renaissance artistry, and stunning Carolingian mosaics.

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Santa Maria in Domnica, also known as Santa Maria alla Navicella, is a Roman Catholic basilica nestled on the Caelian Hill in Rome. Its history stretches back to the 5th century, with significant rebuilding in the 9th century and later Renaissance additions, offering a captivating blend of architectural styles and artistic treasures.

A brief summary to Santa Maria in Domnica

  • Via della Navicella, 10, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00184, IT
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colors and details of the 9th-century apse mosaics.
  • Take a moment to admire the Fontana della Navicella in front of the church, a charming ship-shaped fountain with a fascinating history.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Villa Celimontana park for a relaxing break.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Colosseum, walk up Via Claudia towards the Caelian Hill. Continue onto Via della Navicella; the basilica will be on your left, next to the Villa Celimontana park. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro B line to the Circo Massimo station. From there, walk east along Via del Circo Massimo, then turn left onto Via della Navicella. The basilica will be on your right. Alternatively, several bus lines (e.g., 81, 671, 714) stop near Via della Navicella. A single ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rome. A short taxi ride from the city center to Santa Maria in Domnica should cost approximately €8-€15, depending on traffic and the time of day. Note that taxi fares start at €3.50 during the day and €6.50 at night.

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Discover more about Santa Maria in Domnica

The Basilica di Santa Maria in Domnica alla Navicella, or simply Santa Maria in Domnica, is a captivating minor basilica in Rome, celebrated for its rich history, art, and serene atmosphere. Located on the Caelian Hill, the church offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Originally built in ancient times, possibly as early as the 5th century, the basilica stands near the site of former barracks of the Roman Vigiles. It was rebuilt by Pope Paschal I between 818 and 822, during the Carolingian Renaissance, a period of artistic revival. The church's name, 'in Domnica,' has several possible origins, including 'of the Lord' (dominicum), 'on Imperial property' (in dominica praedia), or from a Christian woman named Cyriaca, who lived nearby. The basilica's exterior features a Renaissance facade with a portico of five arches, added in the early 16th century by Cardinal Giovanni de' Medici (later Pope Leo X), with design work by Andrea Sansovino. In front of the church is the Fontana della Navicella, a ship-shaped fountain, a copy of an ancient votive offering, also commissioned by Leo X. The interior retains its 9th-century layout, with a nave and two aisles separated by 18 granite columns with Corinthian capitals, likely spolia from ancient buildings. The coffered ceiling, donated by Ferdinando I de' Medici, displays the Medici coat of arms and symbolic representations of Noah's Ark and Solomon's Temple. The apse mosaics, commissioned by Pope Paschal I, are a highlight, depicting Christ, angels, apostles, and the Virgin Mary enthroned, with Pope Paschal himself kneeling at her feet. These mosaics are considered prime examples of Carolingian Renaissance art in Rome.

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