Sant'Andrea al Quirinale is a small oval church that Gian Lorenzo Bernini built from 1658 for the Jesuit novitiate, at the request of Cardinal Camillo Pamphilj and with the backing of Pope Alexander VII. Bernini himself ranked it among his best works, because architecture, sculpture and painting form a single whole. It stands a few steps from his rival Borromini's San Carlino (San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane): the two churches are well worth visiting together. Entry is free and a visit takes 15 to 20 minutes. The hours come from secondary sources, as the Rome tourist board refers visitors to the Jesuits for visiting arrangements: check them before you go.
Highlights
The entrance porch
A single-storey façade topped with the cardinal's coat of arms, and a semicircular porch resting on two columns, with rounded steps that reach out towards the street. Bernini announces the oval shape of the interior here.
The gilded coffered dome
The oval plan is set across the entrance, and the dome, with its gilded coffers and ribs, changes with the daylight. Stand in the centre and look up towards the lantern.
The altar and the glory of Saint Andrew
The gilded bronze high altar, with its gilded rays and putti, was designed by Bernini; above the pediment, the statue of Saint Andrew seems to rise towards the lantern.
The chapels
They hold Baroque paintings and keep alive the memory of Saint Stanislaus Kostka, a Jesuit novice who died in 1568 in the neighbouring novitiate.
Practical info
Tips
- Free entry; the church is a place of worship, so dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Mass and visiting times are given by the Jesuits: if in doubt, contact the community (santandrea.gesuiti.it). To compare with Borromini, continue to San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, and read Baroque Rome: in the footsteps of Bernini and Borromini.
How to get there
Via del Quirinale 30, 00187 Rome. Metro line A, Barberini station, about a 10-minute walk. The church is opposite the Quirinal Palace and a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain.
Opening hours
Nearby
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