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.
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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Santa Maria in Domnica
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Celio
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Via Marco Aurelio, 30
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Basilica of San Clemente
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Via di S. Gregorio, 30
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Piazza del Colosseo
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Colosseum
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Baths of Caracalla
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Chiesa San Cesareo de Appia
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Monument of Alfredo Oriani
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Arch of Constantine
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Domus Aurea
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Lateran Baptistery
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Colosseo view point
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Base of the Statue of Nero
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Via di Porta Latina
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fontana della Navicella
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Villa Celimontana
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Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio
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Fontana del dolmen
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Statua dell'antica Roma
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Fontana del Fiume a Villa Celimontana
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Piazza Celimontana
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Parco San Gregorio al Celio
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Piazza di Santissimi Giovanni e Paolo
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Case Romane del Celio
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Caelian Hill
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Parco del Celio
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San Gregorio al Celio
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Archaeological Park of the Celio
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Aroma
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Ristorante Apuleius
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Iari The Vino
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Unique Al Palatino Garden Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Coin
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