Basilica Sant'Andrea delle Fratte

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The two angels by Bernini were rejected for the Ponte Sant'Angelo because they were considered too precious to be exposed to the elements.

2. 2

   The church's bell tower, designed by Borromini, is famous for its intricate, multi-tiered Baroque design that resembles a tiered cake.

3. 3

   Alphonse Ratisbonne's conversion in the chapel led to the founding of the Congregation of Sion.

4. 4

   The church was originally associated with the Order of Minims, a mendicant order founded by Saint Francis of Paola.

5. 5

   The interior contains a notable tomb for the Scottish painter Angelica Kauffman, one of the most successful artists of the 18th century.

Overview

Basilica Sant'Andrea delle Fratte is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in the Colonna district of Rome. It is widely recognized for housing two marble angel sculptures created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for the Ponte Sant'Angelo, which were ultimately installed here instead. The church's current facade and campanile were designed by Francesco Borromini, representing a notable example of Baroque architecture. The interior is best known for the Chapel of the Madonna of the Miracle, which commemorates the 1842 apparition of the Virgin Mary to Alphonse Ratisbonne. This event is credited with the conversion of Ratisbonne from Judaism to Catholicism, making the site a significant destination for pilgrims. The church occupies a site that dates back to the 12th century, though the present structure was largely reconstructed during the 17th century. The ornate interior features frescoes and paintings by various artists, including Pasquale Cati. It serves as the titular church for the Cardinal-Deacon of Sant'Andrea delle Fratte.

Insider tips

• Visit the Chapel of the Madonna of the Miracle on the left side of the nave to see the site of the apparition.

• Look closely at the Bernini angels located near the altar; they are original masterworks that were spared from the Tiber river's exposure.

• Check for occasional classical music concerts held within the nave, which take advantage of the church's acoustics.