Church of Sant'Anselmo all'Aventino, Rome

The Church of Sant'Anselmo all'Aventino is a Romanesque Revival church situated on the Aventine Hill, one of Rome's most serene historic locations. Its interior features three naves separated by columns, a simple yet dignified altar space, and an overall design that emphasizes clarity and light.

Construction began in 1893 under Pope Leo XIII as part of a larger vision to establish a Benedictine presence on the Aventine Hill. The architect Francesco Vespignani designed the building, drawing on Romanesque Revival principles that were popular in Rome at that time.

This place serves as the spiritual heart of a Benedictine abbey where monastic life continues as it has for generations. The daily practice of liturgical chant connects visitors to a living religious tradition that shapes the atmosphere of the entire hilltop community.

The church is reached by walking up a tree-lined path that leads to an open courtyard with a columned portico before the main entrance. Comfortable shoes are helpful for the uphill approach, and modest dress shows respect for the active religious community that worships here.

The Pope traditionally leads a solemn penitential procession from this church to the nearby Santa Sabina on Ash Wednesday, making it a focal point of an important Roman liturgical ceremony. This rare event provides visitors with a chance to witness a significant religious ritual that has been part of Rome's calendar for centuries.