Arcihospital of Santo Spirito in Sassia

The Hospital of Santo Spirito in Saxia is one of the oldest and most prestigious hospitals in Rome, founded in the 12th century by Pope Innocent III. Located along the Tiber River, near the Vatican City, the hospital was established with the purpose of providing medical care to pilgrims arriving in Rome and to the poor of the city. The original structure has been expanded and modified over the centuries, but still retains many architectural and artistic elements of great value. The main courtyard, with its Renaissance cloister, is a place of great beauty and serenity, where patients could find some relief from their suffering. The hospital is also famous for its historic pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe, which still preserves many tools and medicinal preparations from that time. The pharmacy is a true museum, showcasing the evolution of medical science through the centuries. The interior of the hospital is enriched with numerous works of art, including frescoes and paintings that tell the story of the institution and its founders. One of the most famous works is the cycle of frescoes by Antonio Tempesta, illustrating episodes from the life of Pope Innocent III and his commitment to the foundation of the hospital. The church attached to the hospital, dedicated to Santo Spirito, is another architectural gem. Built in the 13th century and later modified, the church houses beautiful frescoes and a main altar created by Carlo Maderno. The facade of the church, with its Gothic rose window and decorated portals, is a perfect example of medieval religious architecture. An interesting anecdote concerns the tradition of the “foundling wheels,” which were used to receive abandoned newborns. These wheels, still visible inside the hospital, allowed babies to be left anonymously, ensuring them care and assistance.