On the slopes of the Caelian Hill, between the Colosseum and San Giovanni in Laterano, in a quiet area of Rome, is the complex of Santi Quattro Coronati.
The complex takes its name from the basilica dating back to the 4th century, which is dedicated to four martyrs from the Christian tradition. Rich in history, art and spirituality, the complex features a 13th century cloister with the tiny Chapel of Saint Barbara, the Calendar Room, the Chapel of Saint Sylvester with Byzantine paintings and the Room of Pentaforae.
The highlight of the complex is the amazing display of frescoes in the Gothic Hall, which have been described as the “Sistine Chapel of the Middle Ages”. Dating to the 13th century, the frescoes were only discovered in 1995, while restoring the room. Unlike most medieval art, the scenes depicted here are not overly religious, and represent the seasons, the zodiac, the labors of the months, vices and virtues.
Mark your calendar! Reservations for September will open July 14. [The monument is only open on set days every month, and July is sold out.]
Visit the Gothic Hall website for instructions on how to make your reservation.
