Chiesa di Sant'Andrea della Colonna

The Chiesa di Sant'Andrea della Colonna is a baroque church in the Sant'Eustachio district in Rome, located at the intersection of Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Corso Rinascimento. The interior follows a Latin cross plan with a crossing, a large dome, and eight tall chapels extending from the side walls.

Construction began in 1591 under the direction of Giacomo Della Porta and was financed through support from Cardinal Alessandro Peretti di Montalto. The church was built during an era when Rome was transforming itself with baroque structures to demonstrate the Church's power after the Reformation.

The name refers to a column that once stood near the church and held sacred significance in ancient times. Visitors can observe in the interior how the artistic details reflect the baroque religious devotion of this period.

The church is open to visitors at set times and is located in a central area of Rome, easily reached by public transportation. Entry is free, making it a worthwhile stop for a quiet visit, especially during less busy hours.

The dome's lantern features unusual capitals with cherubs forming wings, a detail that came from early in the career of young architect Francesco Borromini. This small architectural element is often overlooked but deserves attention as a rare example of his early creativity.