Bramante's Tempietto and San Pietro in Montorio

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Tempietto is a small circular High Renaissance temple, completed in the early 16th century by Donato Bramante in the courtyard of the church of San Pietro in Montorio, on the Janiculum. According to tradition it marks the spot where Saint Peter was crucified. Long cited by architects as a model of harmony, it takes only a few minutes to see, but access is through the Spanish Academy and opening hours are limited: check them before you climb up. The neighbouring church is free. Allow 45 minutes for the whole visit.

Highlights

The Tempietto

Commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, Ferdinand and Isabella, and built from 1502, it consists of a peristyle of sixteen Doric granite columns topped by a balustrade and a dome. It is modest in size, but its proportions make it one of the reference points of Renaissance architecture.

The metopes and the frieze

The entablature frieze alternates triglyphs and metopes showing liturgical objects: chalice, missal, censer. They point to the monument's role as a martyrium (a memorial to a martyrdom).

The church of San Pietro in Montorio

Rebuilt in the late 15th century for the Spanish monarchs, it has kept a single nave with side chapels. Notable works include a Flagellation by Sebastiano del Piombo and the Raimondi Chapel, by Bernini. Entry is free.

The view

The terrace in front of the church looks over the rooftops of Trastevere and the centre of Rome, a few minutes from Piazzale Garibaldi.

Practical info

Tips

The courtyard lies within the grounds of the Royal Spanish Academy: the Tempietto is entered through the gate next to the church, and opening hours change with the season and with events. Combine the visit with the Janiculum, 5 minutes' walk away. Covered shoulders and knees are required in the church.

How to get there

Piazza San Pietro in Montorio 2, 00153 Rome. From Trastevere, allow about 15 minutes' uphill walk along Via Garibaldi (starting from Piazza Trilussa); the Janiculum is very close. No metro nearby.

Opening hours

Best: Late morning

Tempietto: hours set by the Spanish Academy, varying by season (check the official website before visiting); church: open daily during the day, with a midday break