The Stunning Church 99% of People Miss in Rome! 🏛️

⛪In Rome, Bernini's works are everywhere, but do you know what he considered his most satisfying piece? The answer is my destination today: Chiesa di Sant'Andrea al Quirinale! However, its appearance is that of an unremarkable, ordinary small church, and it's very easy to miss without prior knowledge! In his later years, Bernini said that after completing almost every work, he would regrettably find some flaws, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Navona. He mentioned that every time he passed by, he couldn't bear to look directly at it because he felt his design was "full of holes"! But the Church of Sant'Andrea al Quirinale was an exception; he was very satisfied, believing it had no flaws or regrets! This became his favorite work of his own, and it's said that he would spend a quiet moment inside almost every afternoon! The exterior of the church combines classical style with Baroque elements, solemn but not rigid! The church floor plan is oval-shaped, very unique! The interior of the church is stunning; Bernini pushed the concept of "spatial narrative" to the extreme, skillfully integrating painting, sculpture, architecture, and lighting into a dramatic stage play of St. Andrew's martyrdom and ascension! Bernini designed a skylight at the top of the main altar, with natural light pouring down softly onto the golden angels and columns, a truly beautiful sight! This is similar to the design of "The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa"! The golden dome is gorgeous and grand, depicting the appearance of heaven, truly awe-inspiring! The central light well of the dome is deliberately made with yellow glass, and when the sunlight passes through the glass into the church, it is soft, magnificent, warm, and sacred, filling the atmosphere with a heavenly feel! The marble statue of St. Andrew was carved by Bernini himself, and he looks directly at the center of the dome, surrounded by many lovely angels looking down, seemingly awaiting the arrival of the saint! ⚠️When in Rome, do not miss this small but exquisite Baroque church! You can also find a spot to sit quietly and imagine that over three centuries ago, the elderly Bernini sat in the same place… ⚠️Admission is free, no reservation needed, just walk in! ⚠️Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00–12:00 and 15:00–18:00, with a lunch break, and closed on Mondays! #BaroqueArchitecture #Rome #RomanArchitecture #Italy #Churches #RomanHoliday #Bernini #AngelsAndDemons