- Where: In the ancient heart of Rome, Trastevere quarter, picturesque medieval area on the west bank of the Tiber river
- When: All year round
- How many: up to 300 guests most seated
- Ceremonies:: Catholic Weddings
- Music: Sacred music and singing It is the oldest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin.
On this spot in 38 b.C. a fountain of oil flowed for a whole day and Christians later interpreted this miracle as a sign of the birth of the Saviour. One of the first places where the Christians could freely celebrate their religious services. Located in Rome’s most ancient quarters: Trastevere - a picturesque medieval area on the west bank of the Tiber - in a beautiful large piazza adorned by a magnificent fountain.
Pope Calixtus built the first sanctuary between 221 and 227 it was later completed by Julius I. Under Pope Innocent II it was completely restored and finally embellished in the Baroque Time. The façade is decorated with a splendid medieval mosaic which shows the Virgin and Child and a procession of 10 Virgins approaching from both sides. The interior dates back to the XII century and the columns were taken from ancient monuments, all are crowned with their Classical capitals , the figures of some Egyptian divinities were removed. The floor is in Cosmatesque mosaic. The ceiling was decorated by Domenichino.
The true treasures of the church are the mosaics decorating the apse showing the Glory of the Virgin. The mosaics and frescoes between the apse and the windows are a masterpiece by Pietro Cavallini (late XIII cent.) representing episodes from the life of the Virgin.
