Basilica of San Lorenzo in Panisperna
The church of San Lorenzo in Panisperna is a place of worship steeped in history, where history, art and tradition intertwine. Its medieval origins are linked to the place name Panisperna, mentioned in the guide Mirabilia Urbis Romae and associated with the distribution of panis et perna – bread and ham – by the Poor Clares, a charitable act carried out on 10 August, the day of St Lawrence’s martyrdom.
Rebuilt several times between the 13th and 16th centuries, the church now features a single nave with six side chapels. The first two, situated opposite one another, are dedicated to St Francis and St Clare, and reflect the complex’s Franciscan roots. Of particular note is the chapel of Saint Brigid, who lived here for nineteen years, often praying before the wooden crucifix preserved beside the high altar.
The chancel is dominated by the large 16th-century fresco of the Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence by Pasquale Cati, a Mannerist work of great narrative intensity, whilst the central vault houses the Glory of Saint Lawrence by Antonio Bicchierai, an 18th-century Baroque masterpiece.
The crypt, known as the ‘forno’, preserves the traditional site of the saint’s martyrdom, transforming the underground space into a place of remembrance and devotion.
EVENT
GUIDED TOURS OF THE BASILICA OF SAN LORENZO IN PANISPERNA
Discover the place that preserves the memory of the martyrdom of Saint Lawrence
As part of the ‘Oltre la soglia’ project, exclusive guided tours of the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Panisperna are on offer.
Accompanied by experienced guides, you will discover one of the oldest churches in the centre of Rome, overlooking an elegant square that conceals its long history. Its early Christian origins blend with the Baroque influence that reshaped its spaces, creating a unique interweaving of history and devotion. A discreet yet vibrant place, it reveals itself to those who choose to cross its threshold.
The guided tour will be an unmissable opportunity to discover at close quarters the precious masterpieces housed within the Basilica, including the fresco of the Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence
and the gilded stuccoes depicting Saint
Lorenzo in Glory, which adorn
the chancel; the Baroque choir loft, which dominates the counter-façade above the
entrance portal; the Chapel of Saint Brigid, with the Roman-era sarcophagus that once held her remains; and the crypt, known as the ‘oven’, where the martyrdom of Saint Lorenzo took place
Exclusively, visitors will be granted access to areas not normally open to the public, where tradition preserves the memory of the saint’s martyrdom and the famous gridiron. An intimate and evocative experience, discovering a more hidden side of Rome, blending history and spirituality.
- Italian
- Can be arranged on request
- English
- French
- Spanish
- A tour lasting approximately 75 minutes
- Access to areas closed to the public
- Always accompanied by a guide
- Microphone system included
- Saturday 17 October 3.30 pm
- Sunday 7 Novembre 11.00 a.m
- Saturday 21 Novembre 11.00 a.m
Information and bookings
Email us at oltrelasoglia@orpheogroup.com to check availability and book
Address
Via Panisperna, 90, 00184 – 00184 Rome
Important note
- Opening hours may be subject to change due to events such as masses, concerts or special celebrations.
- The ticket for the exclusive guided tour is valid only on the day of booking.
- Appropriate clothing is required, with shoulders and knees covered.