All roads lead to Rome! We were scheduled to go to Switzerland, but the weather forecast rain all week, so we changed plans and headed to Rome. We walked a little over 11 miles and took a cab for another 11 miles. It was our first time to be in 100 degree heat in over 3 years! We realized we were more comfortable in the 100 degrees in Rome than the mid 50 degrees in Ireland. The churches in Rome are over the top in ornate artwork, and each one intriguing. To clarify: a cathedral is the church that is the “seat” of a bishop. There is one cathedral per diocese. A basilica is a church named highly important by the pope based on its historical or cultural importance, its art or beauty, or its significance in the liturgical life of the Church.
Vatican – St Peter’s Basilica
St Peters bones are directly below the main alter.
St Josephs Altar: Apostles St Jude and St Simeon.
Basilica of St Bartholomew
Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls
Some of St Paul’s bones are under the main alter.
Domine Quo Vadis (Thanks, Tori!)
Basilica of St John Lateran
The heads of St Paul and St Peter are enshrined above the altar behind the bars.
Church of Our Lady of Consolation
Basilica of the XXII Holy Apostles
Relics of the Apostles St Philip and St James are honored here (fouth picture below). As we entered, we heard a guide leading a group say that this church is second only to St. Peter’s in art and architecture. We tend to agree!
San Marcello al Corso is one of the first Christian churches in Rome.
Church of St Agnes is on Piazza Navona and is one of our favorites. Like many churches in Rome, it was commissioned by a family in honor of St Agnes. Tradition holds that she was martyred on this spot.
So much politics went into the design and construction of this church! It was begun by Roman architect Rainaldi and son whose work was criticized. Baroque architect Borromini was handed control of the design and continued construction. A new pope did not “find favor” with Borromini who resigned before he was fired, and the Rainaldi’s resumed control. When their work slowed, it was again taken from the Rainaldi’s and given to Bernini who added marble and glitz which countered Borromini’s style. Finally, the church was completed in 1672. In 1673 another architect added the entrance stairway. Whew! It is an amazing worship space.
