Church of Santi Michele e Magno, Catholic church near Vatican City, Rome, Italy
The Church of Santi Michele e Magno is a Catholic place of worship located on Palazzolo hill in Rome, featuring a Romanesque bell tower. The interior displays Baroque elements added during its reconstruction and renovation over the centuries.
The chapel was founded in the 9th century by Frisian pilgrims and later rebuilt in 1141 after destruction by Norman forces. It underwent further changes during the Baroque period and has continued to evolve.
The church serves as a gathering place for Dutch Catholics in Rome, with services conducted in Dutch each week. Visitors notice the strong connection to the Dutch community reflected in the decoration and how the space is used.
Access is gained through a steep staircase leading to a courtyard, or alternatively through the Scala Santa with its 16th-century marble entrance. The best time to visit is before services when the church is open and peaceful.
Inside are two sacred stones connected to biblical events that have drawn pilgrims for centuries. These relics create visible links to Old Testament stories and make the church a special pilgrimage destination.
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