Postcard From Rome: Santa Maria in Trastevere

Santa Maria in Trastevere dates to medieval times and features spectacular mosaics.  Even in dim light the tiles appear like jewels, but their beauty isn’t just about splendor. There’s a sweetness in the details — for instance in the curls on the sheep — that brings to life the tenderness and compassion of faith.

Just to the left of the altar is a chapel where the stone step bears a smooth oval indent, testament to nearly a thousand years of worshipful feet and hearts.

Outside the church on the piazza is Carlo Fontana’s 1692 fountain — the perfect place to sit afterwards, let the experience settle, and transition back to the hustle of Rome.

Via della Paglia 14c, Piazza Santa Maria, Trastevere Tel 06-581-9443