Church of San Pietro in Montorio
What to See If you want to visit this place, here is some useful information about it.
A Masterpiece of Renaissance Architecture
The San Pietro in Montorio church and the Tempietto di Bramante are considered masterpieces of Renaissance architecture. The Tempietto, designed by architect Donato Bramante, is a small circular church located in the courtyard. Its harmonious design and perfect proportions make it an iconic example of architecture from this period.
Note: Do not confuse the Chiostro del Bramante with the Tempietto del Bramante, which are two different buildings in the city of Rome.
A Place of Pilgrimage and History
The San Pietro in Montorio church has a long history and is an important pilgrimage site. According to tradition, it is the site where Saint Peter was crucified. The interior of the church houses remarkable artworks, including frescoes from the Raphael's school and a chapel designed by Bramante himself. It is a place filled with emotion and history.
A Panoramic View of Rome
Another attraction of the visit is the panoramic view of Rome from the Janiculum Hill, where the San Pietro in Montorio church is located. By climbing the steps of the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city's rooftops, the dome of Saint Peter's Basilica, and the Tiber River winding through the city. It's an ideal spot for taking photos and admiring the beauty of Rome.
Tips I'm sharing all my tips here for visiting this place under the best conditions.
Arrive early
To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning when the church is less crowded. This will allow you to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and take photos without too many people around.
Admire the Tempietto
Be sure to spend time admiring the Tempietto di Bramante, the iconic small church located in the courtyard. Appreciate its harmonious proportions and observe the architectural details that make it an exceptional work of art.
Learn about the history
Learn about the history of the church before your visit. This will allow you to better appreciate the works of art and the holy sites you will discover. Understanding the historical context will add an additional dimension to your experience.
Explore the Charms of Trastevere after Your Visit to the San Pietro in Montorio Church
After you've explored the magnificent San Pietro in Montorio Church, extend your Roman adventure by visiting the Trastevere district. Renowned for its picturesque alleyways, lively squares, and charming cafes, Trastevere awaits to immerse you in the authentic ambiance of Rome. Book a guided tour here or there for an enriching experience, and let yourself be captivated by the unique atmosphere of this iconic neighborhood.
Information Here are all the useful information about this place (address, opening hours, coordinates, etc.).
(in 3:01)
History Every place has its history. Discover all the events that have marked this place here.
The Construction and the Spanish Monarchs
The San Pietro in Montorio Church was built on the foundations of an ancient 9th-century church dedicated to Saint Peter. Commissioned by Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella the Catholic, the Spanish monarchs, it became an important pilgrimage site in the late Middle Ages. According to tradition, this is the place where Saint Peter was crucified.
An Artistic Treasure Inside
Inside the church, you will be amazed by the artworks of the great masters of the 16th and 17th centuries. The chapel on the right houses masterpieces such as the Flagellation and the Transfiguration by Sebastiano del Piombo, with contributions from Michelangelo himself.
The next chapel features a fresco by Niccolò Circignani, known as Pomarancio, as well as frescoes from the School of Pinturicchio, including an allegorical Sibyl and the Virtue attributed to Baldassarre Peruzzi.
The third chapel is adorned with frescoes by a pupil of Antoniazzo Romano, depicting Saint Anne and the Virgin with Child. The fourth chapel houses a ceiling fresco by Giorgio Vasari.
The fifth chapel contains another fresco by Vasari, the Conversion of Saint Paul, and the altarpiece is attributed to Giulio Mazzoni. The funerary monuments of Cardinal Del Monte and Roberto Nobili, created by Bartolomeo Ammannati, add a majestic touch.
The last chapel on the left, the Raimondi Chapel, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, features notable artworks such as the Ecstasy of Saint Francis by Francesco Baratta, as well as sculptures by Andrea Bolgi and Vente Niccolò.
The Tomb of Irish Rebels
In front of the main altar, you will discover the tombs of four Irish rebels: Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, his son Hugh, Baron of Dungannon, and the brothers Rory O'Donnell and Cathbarr O'Donnell. These tombs are witnesses to Ireland's tumultuous history.
The Tempietto by Bramante, a Jewel of the Renaissance
The Tempietto of San Pietro in Montorio is a small commemorative temple built by Bramante, considered one of the architectural masterpieces of the High Renaissance. It was created around 1502 and perfectly exemplifies the harmony and grandeur of this exceptional artistic period.
The slender Tuscan columns, the Doric entablature inspired by the ancient Theatre of Marcellus, and the perfectly proportioned dome make the Tempietto an architectural model.
Descend into the crypt to see the legendary hole where, according to tradition, the inverted cross of Saint Peter's martyrdom was planted. This visit will offer you a unique and moving experience.
Family If you're visiting this place with your family, I'm sharing some great tips that will delight both kids and adults.
Exploration journal
Give your children an exploration journal so they can draw their impressions and take notes on what they see inside the church. Encourage them to observe the details and express their creativity.
Historical tale
Tell your children a story about the San Pietro in Montorio church and the Tempietto di Bramante. Use your imagination to transport them to the Renaissance era and explain the importance of these places in Rome's history.
Role-playing game
Suggest to your children to play a role-playing game where they take on the roles of Renaissance architects or artists. They can imagine designing their own church or creating magnificent frescoes. This will help them better understand the architecture and art of the time.