Church of St. Louis of the French — Attraction in Rome

The French National Church, founded by Cardinal Giulio dei Medici (future Pope Clement VII) in 1518, was completed in 1589 by Domenico Fontana, based on a design by Giacomo Della Porta.Located in the rione Sant’Eustachio, a few steps from Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, it is famous for the masterpieces by Caravaggio, Domenichino and Guido Reni. It stands on the square of the same name with its large late Renaissance facade, surmounted by a triangular tympanum with the coat of arms of France. The facade, covered in travertine, is divided by pilasters into five spans, has three portals, and statues by Pierre Lestache (1758) depicting Charlemagne, Louis IX of France, Saint Clotilde and Saint Joan of Valois.The interior has three naves, marked by massive arches separated by pillars, with five chapels on each side, a presbytery, and covered by an elaborate barrel vault. The second chapel of the right aisle is dedicated to Santa Cecilia and houses the frescoes with the stories of the life of the saint by Domenichino, and the altarpiece by Guido Reni.In the last chapel of the left aisle, there is the Contarelli Chapel, named after the Italianized name of the French cardinal Mathieu Cointrel, which houses three paintings by Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, made between 1599 and 1602. In homage to the name of the client, the artworks are dedicated to St. Matthew and represent: the Calling of St. Matthew, St. Matthew and the Angel and the Martyrdom of St. Matthew. In the vault, frescoes by Cavalier d'Arpino.On the choir above the entrance door, is the magnificent organ, built by Joseph Merklin in 1881The church also houses some tombs, including those of Pauline de Beaumont, built by her lover François-René de Chateaubriand, of cardinal François Joachin de Bernis, ambassador of the kings Louis XV and Louis XVI, and Frédéric Bastiat, 19th-century economist and...

A Masterpiece of Art and Spiritual Beauty — Church of Saint Louis of the French

The Church of Saint Louis of the French (San Luigi dei Francesi) is one of Rome’s true artistic and architectural treasures. Located between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, this church is a stunning celebration of French heritage, Baroque artistry, and sacred devotion.

The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly the Contarelli Chapel, which houses three extraordinary masterpieces by Caravaggio — The Calling of Saint Matthew, The Inspiration of Saint Matthew, and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew. Seeing these paintings in their original setting, illuminated by natural light, is a profoundly moving experience that brings art, faith, and history together in perfect harmony.

Beyond Caravaggio’s works, the church itself is magnificent — richly adorned with marble, gold accents, and frescoes that reflect the grandeur of 16th-century Rome. Every detail, from the ornate ceilings to the tranquil chapels, reveals exceptional craftsmanship and devotion.

The atmosphere is peaceful and contemplative, offering a welcome retreat from the busy streets outside. Entry is free, though visitors are encouraged to make a small donation to help preserve this remarkable site.

In every sense, the Church of Saint Louis of the French is a 5-star experience — a place where art and spirituality meet, leaving visitors inspired and in awe of Rome’s enduring...

If you’ve never seen a real Caravaggio or if you’re a fan of his work then you’re in for a treat here! Not one but three paintings by Caravaggio, together in one place, in a tiny chapel inside the already artistically impressive church. There are three Caravaggios all about Matthew the disciple, and my favourite one of the three is “The Calling of Matthew”. You don’t have to be an art aficionado to appreciate the skill and vision of this artist and his creations.

Located near enough to the Piazza Navona and on the tourist trail from the Pantheon so you should really try visit if you’re in this area. Try to get a guided tour (free!) which are available in a number of languages. Any tips are donated and appreciated. The young people conducting these free tours work part of the summer there and come from different countries. When I visited I met a girl from Romania who spoke excellent English and who was very knowledgable about the church and especially the Caravaggios.

NB: This church is sovereign French territory and is also a fully functioning church so endeavour to be respectful of this fact when visiting - it’s a church not a museum - you will be shushed if you’re too loud (you have been warned!) and also prayed for by those present who are praying! Just try to remember it’s not a museum and...