Built in the 5th century, San Pietro in Vincoli was built to hold the relic of chains that bound Saint Peter when he was held in Jerusalem. It also houses Michelangelo’s statue of Moses, which was created in around 1515.
The church itself is quite simple, with a spectacular painted ceiling above the altar. Other sculptures on the walls depict images of saints as well as a macabre rendition of the angel of death. Whilst not as ornate as many of the Roman churches, its large cavernous size, and relatively quiet nature means that it is truly a wondrous site to behold.
As it is located so close to the Colosseum, it is certainly worth a visit and is on our way to our next and second last stop which is an easy 20 minute walk away.
READ | Love cathedrals? Read our guide to the best cathedrals in the UK.
It’s been a pleasure to been your local guide!
I’ve relived that amazing day with you and Pete with this post!
Rome is definitely one of my favorite cities, but I never had a local to show me around, so I did not see a lot of these spots. I guess I have a good excuse to go back! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard
I remember it took us forever to find the Mouth of Truth when I went with friends back in 2008. I had wanted to see it very badly because it’s associated with Audrey Hepburn & Roman Holiday. But we finally found it and I got my picture! #TheWeeklyPostcard
I love this guide! I like the fact that it is not the typical one and you have included some spots less known and less touristy. The photo of St George’s cathedral in the backdrop is just mesmerizing!
What a lovely walk through Rome. I remember being so excited to visit mainly because of the Audrey Hepburn film Roman Holiday, which I still adore. When I finally went, it was lovely to see the historic sites, and the places the film showed us, but also loved seeing how historic places are side by side with modern. So much bustle!
Glad to see some of the more off-the-beaten-path sites of Rome, like Piramide, in this guide. I think people get so stuck in following Rick Steves to a tee that they miss out on so much that Rome has to offer.
I love walking around Cities when I visit. This is an excellent guide and I’ll definitely check back if I manage to get Rome on my itinerary this year!
Wow I’ve been to Rome a number of times but you’ve really managed t find a bunch of places I’ve not visited. What great tips
Fabulous itinerary! Rome is a really great city to walk, we loved walking between the attractions we wanted to see, because there was so much to see along the way, so many hidden alleyways and interesting buildings which we wouldn’t have seen otherwise!
We did take the Metro to the Colosseum, and I remember thinking “I wonder if we’ll be able to find it when we step off” haha we stepped off and it was right in front of us!
Totally agree with you that it matters re the time of year you decide to visit – we visited the first time during Easter and MY GOD it was packed and crowded! Busy like I’ve never seen. But then visited again in Autumn and it was a much nicer and more chill atmosphere 🙂
These all look like lovely spots! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Rome! My favourite city in Europe yet I still have not seen all its sights! Will definitely be following your route as there are things i have never experienced in Rome yet on it! #TheWeeklyPostcard
I totally agree about visiting off peak – we went in early March (when easter was in April) and it was fabulous. Cool but realy low crowds. We also found the special gate but got totally lost on the way. Your instructions are fantastic!
Thanks for sharing! What a fun guide and a great list of unique things to see. I love the peephole and the mouth of truth looks like an entertaining stop!
Fantastic, personalised itinerary of a wonderful city filled with history and culture. The map screenshots are really helpful, great addition! Love the shot through the Orangery 🙂
Wow, what a stunning photo of St. George Cathedral! Congrats on the excellent shot!
Your guide to Rome is very useful. I especially like the maps you integrated into your post!
Super love practical guides like this! and We love Rome!
Love this! Some easily overlooked stops here. Nicely done!