Rome is a living museum, boasting over 3,000 years of rich human history spread across just over 1,000 square kilometres. While many visitors immediately think of the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica, these iconic landmarks are just the beginning. You don’t have to be Catholic—or even religious—to appreciate the profound significance and beauty of the Eternal City’s sacred sites.
Whether you’re a lover of history, architecture, or simply curious about the world’s great civilisations, Rome will leave you breathless. From ancient mosaics and miraculous legends to awe-inspiring domes and relics, these ten holy sites are must-sees for any traveller looking to uncover the spiritual soul of the city.
1. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
One of the four major papal basilicas of Rome, Santa Maria Maggiore stands outside the Vatican’s borders yet belongs to the Holy See. Built by Pope Celestine I in the 5th century, its origins are steeped in legend—said to have been inspired by a miraculous summer snowfall traced by Pope Liberius. The basilica’s 5th-century mosaics, depicting scenes like Moses parting the Red Sea, remain largely intact. Visitors can also explore its museum, which houses fascinating artefacts chronicling the history of both the church and the city.
2. Archbasilica of St John Lateran
As the oldest church in Rome, the Archbasilica of St John Lateran is the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope—not St Peter’s as many believe. Once his residence before the Avignon Papacy, the church has been rebuilt multiple times, now crowned with magnificent statues of Christ and the Apostles. Inside, relics include what’s believed to be wood from the Last Supper table, along with the tombs of popes and saints. It’s considered the “Mother Church” of Catholicism and holds a higher status than even St Peter’s Basilica.
3. San Pietro in Vincoli
St Peter in Chains is a revered minor basilica, drawing visitors primarily for Michelangelo’s towering sculpture of Moses, crafted in 1505. Beneath the altar are the very chains said to have bound St Peter when he was imprisoned. Built in honour of his miraculous escape, the church also boasts exquisite chapels and centuries-old mosaics, making it an essential stop on any Roman pilgrimage.
4. Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
This basilica, commissioned by Pope Pius IV in 1561, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, angels, and Christian martyrs. Its entrance is flanked by striking sculptures of martyrs, dramatically portraying their suffering. Inside, chapels and even a chapel within a chapel await, along with a rich collection of contemporary and historical art that offers a vivid chronicle of Roman Catholic heritage.
5. Church of St Ignatius of Loyola
Located in the heart of Rome, this Jesuit masterpiece is not only free to enter but also packed with visual wonders. Its interior gleams with opulent marble, grand altars, and a brilliant trompe-l’œil ceiling that mimics a dome—when in fact the roof is flat. Statues and paintings dedicated to St Ignatius create a reflective and peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet contemplation.
6. The Sistine Chapel
Situated within the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel is arguably one of the most famous sacred sites in the world. Painted by Michelangelo in the early 1500s, its 5,000 square feet of ceiling and walls bring biblical stories to life—from the Creation to the Last Judgement. Each section is packed with symbolism and theological depth, allowing visitors to “read” scripture through the brushstrokes of a genius.
7. Basilica of St Clement
St Clement’s Basilica is a true archaeological wonder, consisting of three layers of history. The current 11th-century church stands atop a 4th-century basilica, which in turn is built on a 1st-century Roman house where Pope Clement I reportedly worshipped. It’s home to some of the most beautiful Byzantine mosaics in Rome, and the crypt houses relics and tombs that whisper tales from Christianity’s earliest days.
8. Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls
Often overshadowed by St Peter’s, this colossal basilica is the second largest in Rome. Commissioned by Emperor Constantine in 324 AD, it is dedicated to St Paul, the most prolific New Testament writer. A grand statue of the Apostle greets you at the entrance, while inside, marble walls and shimmering mosaics depict centuries of papal history. The tomb of St Paul lies at its heart, making it a sacred destination for pilgrims worldwide.
9. The Pantheon
This awe-inspiring temple is the only ancient Roman religious structure to survive intact, thanks to its conversion into a church in the 7th century by Pope Boniface IV. Originally built in 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa, the Pantheon features the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Its oculus bathes the interior in natural light, offering a powerful spiritual experience. Today, it’s free to enter and still holds Mass, reminding visitors of its enduring sacred role.
10. Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
Tucked just behind the Pantheon, this gem is Rome’s only Gothic church. Its façade is marked by an elephant statue carrying an obelisk—an iconic feature. Inside, blue ceilings adorned with golden stars and Michelangelo’s sculpture of Christ the Redeemer provide artistic and spiritual nourishment. It’s also the final resting place of popes and saints, including Pope Leo X and Pope Clement VII.
Final Thoughts: Uncovering Rome’s Sacred Side
Rome is so much more than ruins and pizza (though those are lovely, too). The city’s sacred architecture and spiritual history offer an unparalleled journey into the heart of civilisation itself. From ancient relics and legendary miracles to artistic masterpieces and monumental churches, each site invites you to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the depth of human faith and creativity.
So why not let your next Roman holiday be one of inspiration and discovery? Bookmark these holy sites, pack your walking shoes, and step into 3,000 years of divine history. And if you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to share it with fellow travellers and subscribe for more hidden gems and cultural deep dives from around the world!