Santa Sofia a Via Boccea

Santa Sofia a Via Boccea is a minor basilica in Rome's Trionfale district that displays Byzantine Revival style with domes and intricate interior mosaics throughout its spaces. A monumental iconostasis dominates the interior, featuring detailed religious imagery that anchors the Eastern Christian liturgical tradition.

This basilica was founded in 1967 by Cardinal Josyf Slipyj, who had been held in Soviet prisons and could not return to Ukraine, making it a refuge for the exiled Ukrainian Catholic community. The building became a symbol of religious freedom for those displaced from their homeland.

This basilica serves as the spiritual center for Rome's Ukrainian Greek Catholic community, where services follow Byzantine traditions and the Ukrainian language shapes the worship experience. The iconostasis and liturgical practices reflect the heritage of Eastern Christianity in the heart of the city.

The basilica is an active place of worship where visitors can attend services or view the interior structure and decorations during visiting hours. It is best to check opening times in advance, as regular services shape when the space is accessible to the public.

The iconostasis was crafted by artist Juvenalij Josyf Mokryckyj and features detailed religious imagery that shapes the visual experience of worship. The basilica also houses relics of Pope Clement I, an early Christian martyr whose remains connect this modern space to ancient Christian history.

Location: Rome

Inception: September 28, 1969

Founders: Josyf Slipyj

Architectural style: Byzantine Revival architecture

Website: http://ugcc.org.ua

GPS coordinates: 41.91171,12.39744

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40