The Basilica
Magnificent project by Michelangelo Buonarroti, commissioned by Pope Pious IV (Giovan Angelo dè Medici, 1559-1565) to build a church on the ruins of the Diocletian Baths, the Basilica of S. Maria degli Angeli e dei Santi was borne from the intuition and perseverance of a Sicilian priest Antonio Lo Duca. On a summer morning of 1541, Lo Duca has an extraordinary vision near the church of Santa Maria di Loreto in the Trajan Forum. He saw “a light whiter than snow” springing out from the ruins of the Diocletian Baths. From this vision, Antonio was convinced that a church dedicated to the Seven Angels had to be built on those majestic thermal ruins.
This prophetic vision would only begin to become a reality on July 27, 1561, when Pius IV issued a papal bull establishing that a church dedicated to St. Mary of the Angels should be built on the ruins of the Baths and asked the Carthusians of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme to be in charge. On August 5, the first stone of the new building was solemnly laid.
During the 18th century, the architect Clemente Orlandi worked on the church, followed later by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli.
In 1702, Francesco Bianchini, a canon and scholar of eclectic culture, created the Meridian with zodiac signs on the church floor, drawing inspiration from the works of the great astronomer Gian Domenico Cassini.
The Basilica serves as a reference church for important celebrations connected to the institutions of the Italian State.
San Bruno Chapel
Dedicated to the founder of the Carthusian Order, this chapel serves as a large space — accommodating up to 600 persons — designated for concerts and cultural events. It also houses the prestigious Monumental Organ.
The attached spaces
Carthusian Choir
A vast hall with a pavilion vault, entirely frescoed, the Carthusians' Choir or Chapel of the Epiphany is an elegant space with a capacity of 130 seats, ideal for celebrations, conferences, presentations, training events, and concerts.
The underground Michelangelo Hall provides the ideal setting for communal convivial gatherings.
Auditorium
Accessible from both Via Cernaia and the interior of the Basilica, the Auditorium is a versatile venue suitable for performances, concerts, film screenings, training sessions, and events. It features 100 seats in the main hall and a gallery with 50 seats. The facility also offers support rooms for small group meetings and catering. Two pianos are available on-site.