It is one of the few Roman churches to retain the original 12th-century mosaic floor style, known as Cosmatesque.
The church was the first in Rome to be officially dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Beneath the altar, excavations have revealed remains of an earlier 'titulus' or house-church from the 3rd century.
The 22 columns supporting the nave are topped with ionic and corinthian capitals of varied origin, reused from ancient pagan structures.
The mosaic of the 'Coronation of the Virgin' in the apse includes a depiction of Pope Innocent II holding a model of the church.
Pietro Cavallini’s frescoes and mosaics inside represent a pivotal transition from rigid Byzantine styles to more naturalistic Gothic forms.
The church interior contains a relic of the True Cross and the head of Saint Apollonia.
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is widely considered one of the oldest churches in Rome, with its foundation dating back to the 3rd century. The facade is distinguished by its 12th-century glittering gold mosaics depicting the Virgin and Child surrounded by ten virgins. The interior features a nave lined with 22 granite columns taken from the Baths of Caracalla or the Temple of Isis. The apse contains a stunning series of Cavallini mosaics from the late 13th century illustrating the life of the Virgin. The wooden coffered ceiling was designed by Domenichino in the 17th century. The current structure primarily reflects a 12th-century reconstruction commissioned by Pope Innocent II. The piazza in front of the church hosts an octagonal fountain, one of the oldest in Rome, rebuilt by Bramante and later by Bernini. The church serves as a titular church for cardinals and remains an active place of worship.
The center of the fountain in the piazza, looking back at the illuminated mosaic facade at twilight.
Visit during the early evening to see the facade mosaics illuminated by the piazza's street lighting.
Take time to observe the floor patterns, which demonstrate the intricate geometric precision of medieval stonemasons.
Look for the smaller 12th-century mosaic of the Madonna and Child on the exterior, which predates the larger facade work.
Do not mistake the active church for a museum; avoid flash photography or loud conversation when services are in session.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; hats should be removed upon entering; maintain silence during prayer times.
