Oratorio di Santa Barbara, Ancient oratory in Celio district, Rome, Italy.
The Oratorio di Santa Barbara is a small chapel with a rectangular layout and a single nave that leads to an apse. Its interior walls display frescoes depicting religious scenes that add color and spiritual meaning to the space.
The building originates from the 12th century but underwent major renewal in the early 17th century under Cardinal Cesare Baronio's direction. This renovation transformed the structure into the form it holds today.
The oratory bears the name of Saint Barbara, a patron saint honored in local religious tradition. The small chapel shows how devotion to her has been maintained in this sacred space over time.
The chapel sits near Piazza di San Gregorio in the Celio district, a historic area with steep streets and cobblestone passages. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and expect a small, intimate interior space.
A marble statue of Saint Gregory was created by artist Nicolas Cordier in the early 17th century and stands in the apse. The marble used came from a collection connected to Michelangelo's family, linking the artwork to a famous Renaissance master.
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