There is nothing more inviting than an open passageway leading to an inner courtyard. All you need to do is to take a few steps away from the street that you are on, and you find yourself in a space full of quiet and beauty!
The Baptist Church of Roma, founded in 1963, is located in Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, and is housed in a building that used to function as the stables for Palazzo Ruspoli, home of the Ruspoli Family.
In the same piazza, you will find the church which gives the square its name: San Lorenzo in Lucina.
The first church was built on the site in 366 AD.
The interior of the church is beautiful, with works of art by some of the world’s most important artists, including Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Capella Fonseca is a masterpiece by Bernini.
Nearby is the Chiesa di San Marcello al Corso, which, according to tradition, was built over the prison of Pope Marcellus I.
A small monument pays tribute to Ercole Rosa – an Italian sculptor.
At Via dell Orso 16, a plaque commemorates the fact that the architect/poet Mario Fagiolo, or as he was better known, Mario dell Arco, was born there.
As I was walking along Via degli Acquasparta, I stumbled upon a Wall of Dolls, which immediately commanded my attention. This memorial to victims of domestic violence, from all parts of Italy, is a moving testament to a problem that is, unfortunately, worldwide.
Next up: a visit to the beautiful, northern city of Varese!
Note: this blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations which may appear. If you have enjoyed this post, please visit our archives for more posts from bella Roma, as well as other Italian destinations. Grazie!