De mooiste kerken van Rome (die geen basilieken zijn)

Rome is renowned for its grand basilicas, but its smaller churches often hold equally stunning artistic treasures and offer a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere. Here are 10 of Rome’s most beautiful churches (that aren’t basilicas), focusing on their interior details, ceiling art, and tranquil settings:

1. San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane: A masterpiece of Baroque architecture by Francesco Borromini. Its small size makes its intricate design even more impressive. The coffered dome and undulating facade are breathtaking.
   • Tip: Stand in the center to fully appreciate the dome’s geometry.
2. Sant’Ignazio di Loyola in Campo Marzio: This church is famous for its astonishing trompe-l’oeil ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo, creating the illusion of a soaring dome and heavenly ascent.
   • Tip: Stand on the designated marble disc in the nave for the perfect perspective of the illusion.
3. Santa Maria della Vittoria: This church houses Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, a theatrical masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. The entire Cornaro Chapel, with its hidden lighting and “opera boxes,” is a work of art.
   • Tip: Bring coins for the light box to illuminate the sculpture.
4. Santa Maria del Popolo: Located at Piazza del Popolo, this church contains works by Caravaggio (The Crucifixion of Saint Peter and the Conversion of Saint Paul) and Raphael, making it a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art.
5. Santa Prassede: Known for its stunningly preserved 9th-century Byzantine mosaics, particularly in the Chapel of San Zeno. These mosaics are incredibly vibrant and detailed.
   • Tip: Bring a flashlight to fully appreciate the mosaics’ colors.
6. Sant’Andrea al Quirinale: Another Baroque gem by Bernini, this oval-shaped church is a marvel of architectural design, with rich marble decoration and a beautiful dome.
7. Santa Maria sopra Minerva: This Gothic church houses Michelangelo’s statue Christ Carrying the Cross and the tombs of Saint Catherine of Siena and Fra Angelico.
8. Il Gesù: The mother church of the Jesuit order, it’s a prime example of Baroque grandeur. Its ceiling fresco is a spectacular display of trompe l’oeil effects.
9. San Luigi dei Francesi: Houses three magnificent Caravaggio paintings depicting the life of St. Matthew in the Contarelli Chapel. The dramatic use of light and shadow is characteristic of Caravaggio’s style.
10. Santa Cecilia in Trastevere: Built over the alleged home of Saint Cecilia, this church features beautiful mosaics and the moving statue of St. Cecilia by Stefano Maderno.

These churches offer a diverse range of artistic styles and spiritual atmospheres, providing a more intimate and often quieter experience than the major basilicas.