Sant'Agnese in Agone

Explore Sant'Agnese in Agone, a stunning Baroque church in Rome's Piazza Navona. Discover its history, architecture by Borromini, and legends.

Overview

Nestled gracefully into the western side of the iconic Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy, the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone stands as a magnificent testament to 17th-century Baroque architecture. This impressive church, dedicated to Saint Agnes, draws visitors with its elegant facade and rich historical narrative. Its presence is central to the vibrant character of Piazza Navona, a square renowned for its stunning fountains and dynamic atmosphere. Sant'Agnese in Agone is not merely a place of worship; it is a profound artistic and historical landmark, reflecting the grandeur and intricate design of its era. [2, 5, 12, 23]

The church's strategic location in one of Rome's most famous public spaces makes it an unmissable destination, offering a harmonious blend of spiritual devotion, architectural genius, and deeply rooted Roman history. [22, 24]

History & Cultural Background

The origins of Sant'Agnese in Agone are deeply intertwined with the ancient history of Rome. The church is built on the very site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, an impressive structure from the 1st century AD that hosted athletic competitions. [2, 3, 7, 12] According to tradition, it is here that Saint Agnes, a young Christian virgin, suffered martyrdom around 304 AD during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian. [3, 5, 9]

A smaller oratory dedicated to Saint Agnes existed on this spot since at least the 7th century, which was later enlarged into a basilica in 1123. [3, 7] The current Baroque church was commissioned by Pope Innocent X Pamphili in 1651, whose family palace, the Palazzo Pamphili, stands adjacent to the church. The Pope intended the church to serve as a family chapel and mausoleum. [2, 5, 7, 12, 16] Construction began in 1652 under the initial designs of Girolamo Rainaldi and his son Carlo Rainaldi. [2, 3, 11] However, a few years later, in 1653, the renowned architect Francesco Borromini took over the project, making significant modifications that shaped much of the church's distinctive appearance. [2, 3, 11, 12] After Borromini's departure due to various disagreements, Carlo Rainaldi returned to complete the work, incorporating elements from both his and Borromini's designs. [11, 12]

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Sant'Agnese in Agone apart is its architectural brilliance and the captivating interplay of artistic styles. Borromini's contribution, particularly his groundbreaking concave facade, is a masterpiece of Baroque design. This innovative curvature sets the church slightly back from the piazza, allowing the central dome to be more prominently visible and creating a dramatic visual effect that interacts dynamically with the surrounding space. [3, 5, 11, 12, 19]

The interior of the church follows a Greek-cross plan, creating a near-circular space adorned with opulent marble, stucco, and a wealth of Baroque sculptural and fresco work. [2, 3, 5, 15] The grand dome is frescoed with the magnificent "Apotheosis of Saint Agnes," begun by Ciro Ferri and completed by Sebastiano Corbellini. [2, 9, 15] The pendentives of the dome feature allegories of the Cardinal Virtues, painted by Giovanni Battista Gaulli, also known as Il Baciccio. [2, 3, 9, 15] Inside, visitors can admire sculptural masterpieces by artists such as Ercole Ferrata, Alessandro Algardi, and Pier Paolo Campi, depicting scenes related to various martyred saints. [2, 5, 9, 15]

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The church's name, "Sant'Agnese in Agone," carries a fascinating historical detail. The term "in Agone" does not refer to "agony" as one might assume, but rather originates from the Greek word "agones," meaning "contests." This is a direct reference to the athletic games and footraces held in the ancient Stadium of Domitian, upon which Piazza Navona, and subsequently the church, were built. Over time, "in agone" evolved into "Navona." [2, 5, 12, 15]

A famous legend, though historically unfounded, recounts the intense rivalry between Borromini and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who designed the Fountain of Four Rivers directly in front of the church. The story claims that Bernini sculpted the figure of the Nile covering his eyes as if in fear that Borromini's church facade might collapse. In reality, Bernini's fountain predates much of Borromini's work on the church's facade. [2, 5, 12, 15]

Another poignant detail involves Saint Agnes herself. According to legend, when she was exposed naked during her martyrdom, her hair miraculously grew to cover her body. [3, 9] The crypt of Sant'Agnese in Agone, which houses remains of the Stadium of Domitian, is believed to be the exact spot of her martyrdom and contains some of her relics, including her skull. [5, 8, 23]

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, Sant'Agnese in Agone offers a deeply enriching experience, an opportunity to step into a vibrant piece of Roman history and Baroque artistry. Standing in Piazza Navona, the church's concave facade appears to embrace the square, inviting exploration of its detailed exterior and grand interior. [19]

Inside, the sheer scale and intricate decoration provide a sense of awe, with every corner revealing masterworks of painting, sculpture, and architectural detail. Taking time to appreciate the frescoes in the dome, the elaborate altars, and the various chapels offers a profound immersion into the artistic and religious spirit of the 17th century. Visitors can also explore the crypt, a historically significant area beneath the church. [5, 8, 23] Information regarding visiting hours and access to the crypt is generally available on the church's official website or through local tourism resources. [4, 16, 17, 21]