Church of San Giovanni della Malva

The Church of San Giovanni della Malva in Trastevere is one of the oldest and most charming churches in Rome, located in the heart of the Trastevere district. Built in the 12th century, the church is dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist and takes its name from the mallow plant, which grew abundantly in the area. The facade of the church, restored in the 18th century, is simple and austere, in stark contrast to the richly decorated interior. The single nave, spacious and bright, is decorated with frescoes and stuccoes of great artistic and historical value. Of particular interest is the main altar, which houses a painting of Saint John the Evangelist attributed to Carlo Maratta. This painting, with its vibrant colors and harmonious composition, is an extraordinary example of Roman Baroque painting. An interesting anecdote concerns the church’s crypt, which houses the relics of Saint Calepodio, a Christian martyr from the 3rd century. The crypt is a place of great devotion, visited by pilgrims from all over the world.