Santo Stefano Rotondo

Santo Stefano Rotondo is an early Christian church in Rome with a circular design and two concentric rings of columns surrounding a central altar. The interior layout creates a harmonious geometric arrangement, while the outer walls provide space for artwork.

The church was founded in the 5th century and has maintained its original circular form over many centuries. Over time, changes were made that reshaped the interior, yet the basic layout remained recognizable.

The church displays a series of wall paintings depicting scenes from early Christian times, created by artists in the 1500s. These images tell stories that remain visually striking for visitors today.

The church is typically accessible to visitors during daytime hours and can be explored on your own. The circular layout makes it easy to reach all areas on foot, and there is plenty of room for walking and viewing.

Beneath the church lies an ancient Roman shrine with preserved decorative features, uncovered during excavations. This underground layer shows how older religious sites were later incorporated into Christian buildings.

Location: Rome

Inception: 5 century

Architects: Bernardo Rossellino

Architectural style: Early Christian architecture

Length: 80 m

Width: 45 m

Address: Via Santo Stefano Rotondo

Opening Hours: March Sunday[-1]-October Sunday[-1] -1 day: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-13:00,15:30-18:30; October Sunday[-1]-March Sunday[-1] -1 day: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-13:00,14:00-17:00; December 25,January 01 off; easter off; 2025 January 06-20 off

Website: http://vicariatusurbis.org/Ente.asp?ID=955

GPS coordinates: 41.88452,12.49676

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:26