Save places from Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and more
Chiesa del Gesù
Place
4.8 (4983 reviews)
Piazza del Gesù, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 697001
Did You Know?
Birthplace of Baroque
Chiesa del Gesù is widely considered the mother church of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and is a foundational example of Baroque architecture, influencing countless churches across Europe and the Americas.
A Simpler Name
While its full name is Chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Gesù (Church of the Most Holy Name of Jesus), it is commonly known simply as 'Il Gesù' (The Jesus) in Rome.
Spectacular Ceiling Fresco
Its breathtaking ceiling fresco, 'The Triumph of the Name of Jesus' by Giovanni Battista Gaulli (Baciccio), is a masterpiece of illusionistic painting that seems to break through the church's architectural limits.
Tomb of the Founder
The church houses the magnificent tomb of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order, located in the transept, a grand Baroque altar created by Andrea Pozzo.
Highlights from Reviews
• stunning ceiling art
The ceiling frescoes, particularly 'The Triumph of the Name of Jesus' by Gaulli, are consistently praised for their illusionism and breathtaking beauty.
• baroque architectural model
The church is recognized as a seminal example of Baroque architecture, influencing countless Jesuit churches worldwide and showcasing Counter-Reformation design.
• rich interior decoration
Visitors are consistently awed by the opulent and intricate interior, featuring gold, marble, precious stones, and detailed artworks throughout.
• free admission
The church offers free entry, making its magnificent art and architecture accessible to all visitors without a cost barrier.
• spiritual and awe-inspiring
Many describe the church as a deeply moving and awe-inspiring place, fostering contemplation and a sense of spiritual connection regardless of personal faith.
Featured in
Five Roman Churches With Stunning Interiors
Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, Church of St Mary Magdalene, Church of St. Louis of the French
Rome's Ten Must-See Churches Rich in Art and History
Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, St. Peter's Basilica, Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria
Rome's Pantheon and Baroque Church of the Gesù
Pantheon
Roman Landmarks and Hidden Gems
Altar of the Fatherland, St. Peter's Basilica
Four Roman Churches Feature Artistic Grandeur
Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, Sant'Agnese in Agone, Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle
Rome Landmarks and Attractions Itinerary
Colosseum, Roman Forum, Altar of the Fatherland
Rome's Free Churches Boast Masterpiece Art
Basilica of Saint Mary of Minerva, Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, St. Peter's Basilica
Rome Day Trip: Landmarks, Food, and Hidden Gems
Colosseum, Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, Trevi Fountain
Roman Churches Feature Mirrored Ceiling Art
Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
Rome Itinerary: Ancient Sites and Culinary Delights
Colosseum, Roman Forum, Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
Magical Roman Sites: A Day-by-Day Itinerary
Doria Pamphili Gallery, Galleria Colonna Museo e Pinacoteca, Passetto di Borgo