SANTA MARIA IN TRASTEVERE

Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest places of worship in Rome, certainly the oldest dedicated to Mary.

According to tradition, the church was built by Pope Callistus I (? – 222), who is buried here.

Callisto issued a famous edict which gave Communion, after serving an appropriate penance, to fornicators and adulterers.

Tertullian accused him of usurping rights that he had not and the antipope Hippolytus added, “where you display this edict so heinous? On the doors of the brothels?”.

San Callisto I died a martyr in 222.

Pope Julius I (? – 352), extended the church giving it the shape of a basilica, his relics are in the church.

St. Julius I was pope during a troubled period of the church, struggling with the Arian controversy, supported by the Emperor Costanzo. Julius asserted in a firm and balanced way the priority of the Church in support of Roman orthodoxy, which Constantine stole to the popes.

The façade of S. Maria in Trastevere click to enlarge picture

Pope Innocent II Papareschi (? – 1143), who was probably born in Trastevere, rebuilt the church and is buried here.

In 1702 Pope Clemente XI Albani (1649 – 1729), gave to Carlo Fontana the task of reworking the façade and portico.

Finally Pius IX Mastai Ferretti (1792 - 1872), who was beatified in 2000 by Pope John Paul II Wojtyla, commissioned Virginio Vespignani (1808 - 1882), a substantial restoration.

For a thorough tour of the church we recommend using the clickable map below.

S. Maria in Trastevere - click on the green links

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