Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo

This Augustinian basilica, located at the famous Piazza del Popolo, is a splendid showcase of Italian Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Its interior hides breathtaking frescoes by Italy's most acclaimed master painters, like Raphael, Bernini, Caravaggio and Bramante.

The church we see today dates back to the 15th century, when it replaced an older, 11th-century church that used to stand here. Rumour has it that it was erected on the grave of the Roman emperor Nero. According to legends, this grave used to be marked by a poplar tree - hence the name of the church.