Mausoleum of Santa Costanza Rome
Magnificent mosaics
Not all of Rome’s treasures are in museums and galleries in the centre. A short bus journey to a residential neighbourhood slightly north of the centre takes you to the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome.
Santa Costanza is an ancient mausoleum that was later converted into a church. It was originally believed to have been built by Constantine I for his daughter Costantina, but experts now believe that it was built by Emperor Julian for his wife Helena, who was also one of Constantine’s daughters. But you don’t need to get too bogged down in Ancient Roman family trees to appreciate Santa Costanza. The few people who know about this place come to see the art – exquisite 4th-century mosaics that cover the ceiling. Pagan imagery was surprisingly common in early Christian art, and the mosaics of Santa Costanza depict scenes of cherubs harvesting among swirling vines and floral patterns.
Entrance is free, but you’ll need to donate some change to illuminate the mosaics. While you’re there, make sure you visit the Basilica of St Agnes next door (St Agnes is buried under the altar). There are also guided tours of the catacombs.
To reach Santa Costanza from central Rome, simply take the metro B to Sant’Agnese-Annibaliano, or take the 90 bus from Termini and get off at the stop Nomentana/XXI Aprile.
Find your way with 152 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Rome
Mercato fonte Egeria
Take back your vegetables
The market next to the Egeria water plant in Rome, or the "Mercato fonte Egeria", is an opportunity to meet regional farmers and buy fresh local produce!
by
Max
Giudice
Pasticceria Regoli
A Roman breakfast
"Pasticceria Regoli" is the real deal in Rome. Open for generations, come here to get one of their delicious flagship maritozzi...
by
Max
Giudice
Pizzeria Ostiense
Roman vibes on pizza
"Pizzeria Ostiense" in Rome makes typical pizza that has Romans come in droves! What's also good here are the 'fritti', which deserve a special mention...
by
Max
Giudice
Villa Latina
Fresh breeze, pines and Roman tombs
"Villa Latina" is not the best known of Rome's parks, but it's along an ancient road where you feel time never passed & ancient Romans are still around...
by
Max
Giudice
Parco di Tor Fiscale
Aqueducts and the sky
"Parco di Tor Fiscale" in Rome is a hidden treasure. It combines nature and views of mountains with aqueducts and is a journey for the mind & soul...
by
Max
Giudice
Coppedè Neighborhood
Architecture and symbols
The magical neighborhood of "Coppedè" is entirely different from the rest of Rome - go visit it and you'll know what I mean...
by
Max
Giudice
S. Maria della Vittoria
A theater in a church
Up for dramas, love, emotions, or - why not - theatre? Well, then the church of "S. Maria della Vittoria" in Rome is your place.
by
Max
Giudice
Monte Mario
The king of Rome
"Monte Mario" in Rome and its amazing views is the kind of place I always come back to when I need to clear my mind...
by
Max
Giudice
Gianicolo
An explosive sunset
"Gianicolo" is a hill in Rome where you get the most amazing sunset views. Come here to chill with a friend - and see the canon fire every day at noon!
by
Max
Giudice
Palazzo Venezia Garden
A secret oasis
I come to the "Palazzo Venezia Garden" whenever I want to forget that I even am in Rome. It's perfect even for taking naps in the midst of it all...
by
Max
Giudice
Stadio dei Marmi
Your temple of sport
"Stadio dei Marmi" in Rome is a stadium where anyone can come to train for free, but the atmosphere is so chill, it's also great for reading your book...
by
Max
Giudice
Tram Depot
Retro coffee stop
"Tram Depot" in Rome feels like a shady oasis. This tiny bar is designed to resemble an old-fashioned tram depot with a vintage theme throughout...
by
Alexandra
Turney
Heading to Rome?
152 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Rome?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 152 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Rome
Get to know our other Spotters from Rome
As featured on:
