[2025 Rome Attraction] Travel Guide for Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian (Updated Jul)

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip St. Peter's Basilica Tourist Guide (Vatican City) One of the most famous churches in the world and the headquarters of the Catholic Church, St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) is located in Vatican City, Rome, Italy. It is a very important place in terms of religion, history and art. 🕍 Highlights 1. Spectacular view from the cupola The huge cupola (dome) designed by Michelangelo can be climbed by stairs or elevator, and offers a magnificent view of Rome and St. Peter's Square. 2. La Pietà This famous sculpture was created by Michelangelo when he was 24 years old, and the image of Mary embracing Christ is very moving. It is displayed near the entrance inside the basilica. 3. The Great Altar and Bernini's Baldacchino At the center of the cathedral is a magnificent bronze canopy designed by Bernini, where the Pope holds mass. 🕰️ Opening hours and important points Opening hours: 07:00-19:00 (varies depending on the season) Admission fee: Free (there is a fee to climb the dome) Dress: No revealing clothing (shoulders and knees must be covered)

#romanforum The Basilica of Santi Cosma e Damiano is another fascinating example of how the Roman Forum transitioned from a pagan center to a Christian stronghold. This 6th-century church was built using parts of an ancient Roman temple, repurposing a Forum-era building into a place of worship. One of its highlights is the breathtaking Byzantine mosaic in the apse, depicting Christ surrounded by saints, which still dazzles visitors with its golden glow. The church also contains fragments of Roman frescoes, blending Christian and imperial artistic traditions. Santi Cosma e Damiano sits at the edge of the Forum, making it an easy and rewarding stop after exploring the ruins. It’s a perfect example of how Christianity reshaped the Forum’s landscape, preserving its structures while transforming them for a new purpose. If you’re interested in the evolution of the Forum beyond its ancient Roman era, this church is a must-see.

The Temple of Divine Romulus most likely dates form the early fourth century and was originally a temple but then became part of a church. This is probably why it survived so intact, in fact it is one of the best preserved structures in the Roman Forum. The doors of the temple of Romulus are particularly noteworthy as they are the original bronze doors form the original temple that are still in use today and the original key still exists. Sadly the Temple of Romulus is closed at the moment but if you visit the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian, you can view the interior of this ancient temple. #celebrateit #rome #ancient