TOUR DESCRIPTION

Join this exclusive 3-hour tour to uncover how the Baroque and Renaissance eras have indelibly shaped the beauty of Rome, transforming it into an unparalleled treasure trove of timeless artworks. 

From the 14th to the 17th centuries, the greatest artists revolutionized art, introducing aesthetic principles based on classical antiquity. Their works, characterized by anatomical perfection, perspective, and harmony, are visible in some of the city’s most iconic locations.

The tour begins with a visit to the Church of Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, a hidden gem in the streets of Rome where the Baroque art of Gian Lorenzo Bernini manifests in all its grandeur. Located not far from the famous Spanish Steps, this church is an architectural and artistic masterpiece that deserves thorough exploration. Bernini’s influence is evident, especially in the angel sculptures inside the church and in the Altieri Chapel, designed by the artist and completed by his pupil Giuseppe Giorgetti. The chapel houses a series of Bernini’s sculptures, including the “Bust of an Angel,” a work that masterfully captures the expressiveness and delicacy of human features.

Continue the journey to the Church of Sant’Ignazio da Loyola, a masterpiece where Baroque art reaches its pinnacle in the majestic dome and interior decorations. This church is renowned for its extraordinary false dome and ceiling, designed by architect Andrea Pozzo. The painted ceiling creates an extraordinary optical illusion, giving the impression that the ceiling opens up towards the sky.

The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi is the next stop, a place where the artistic legacy of Caravaggio comes to life. In the Contarelli Chapel, you’ll find three masterpieces that tell the story of the rebellious genius of art. Caravaggio’s most notable works in this church are three paintings that compose the Life of Saint Matthew series: “The Calling of Saint Matthew,” “The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew,” and “Saint Matthew and the Angel.” These masterpieces highlight Caravaggio’s genius in portraying religious scenes with powerful and dramatic realism.

The final stop of this extraordinary artistic experience is the visit to Sant’Agostino, a church that hosts works by Raphael and Caravaggio, among the most celebrated artists in art history. Notable works include paintings by grand masters such as Raphael and Caravaggio. The Cappellone di Sant’Agostino, for example, houses Raphael’s masterpiece, the “Madonna of Loreto.” This work emanates timeless delicacy and grace, capturing attention for its serene beauty. Furthermore, Sant’Agostino is renowned for the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, where you can admire Caravaggio’s work titled “The Baptism of Christ.” Caravaggio, with his realistic style and masterful use of light, imparts extraordinary intensity to this sacred representation.

The tour concludes with this enriching visit. Wrap up this immersive experience in Piazza Navona, reflecting on the artistic and spiritual wonders encountered in this extraordinary tour. The brushes of historical artists like Bernini, Raffello, and Caravaggio have left an indelible mark on the art in the heart of Rome.

DURATION

3 Hours

HIGHLIGHTS

● Explore the artistic evolution of Rome through the Baroque and Renaissance periods
● Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks showcasing masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael
● An expert private guide at your disposal

INCLUDED

● Walking Tour with 3 hours itinerary
● Visit to Sant’Andrea delle Fratte with Bernini’s sculptures, Sant’Ignazio da Loyola’s optical illusion ceiling, San Luigi dei Francesi’s Caravaggio collection, and Sant’Agostino housing works by Raphael and Caravaggio
● Professional Guide
● Private tour best experience

EXCLUDED

● Hotel pick-up and drop-off
● Tips
● Other services not specified

ADITIONAL INFORMATION

• Clients must reach the meeting point 15 minutes prior to tour departure
• The order of the visited sites may be subject to changes
• Tour length is approximately 3 hours, the itinerary can be modified in exceptional cases of unforeseen circumstances
• This tour involves a fairly long walking itinerary, we recommend comfortable shoes anytime of the year and sunglasses in the summer months
• Entrance into churches requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. We cannot be held responsible for denied entry due to improper dress
• The tour runs both with rain or shine, only in cases of extremely bad weather conditions or due to force majeure it could be canceled. On these rare occasions, clients will be informed in advance and will be offered the first available date or, possibly, the full refund
• If some of the churches included in the itinerary are not accessible due to an extraordinary closure or extraordinary liturgical celebrations on the day of the visit, the clients will be offered an extended itinerary for the rest of the tour
• No refunds or re-bookings available for late arrivals or no shows

MEETING POINT

The tour starts from Piazza San Silvestro, right next to the newspaper kiosk