Church of Saints Luca and Martina

The Church of Saints Luke and Martina is one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Rome, located in the Roman Forum. The church was built in the 7th century, but was completely rebuilt in the 17th century by the architect Pietro da Cortona, who transformed the building into one of the masterpieces of Roman Baroque. The facade of the church, with its Corinthian columns and statues, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. The interior is equally impressive, with a wide and bright central nave, flanked by richly decorated side chapels. Of particular interest is the church’s dome, frescoed with scenes from the life of St. Luke, the patron saint of artists, and St. Martina, a Christian martyr. These frescoes, created by Pietro da Cortona and his students, are considered among the best examples of Baroque art in Rome. An interesting anecdote concerns the discovery of St. Martina’s body during the church’s restoration in the 17th century. According to legend, the saint’s body was found in an extraordinarily preserved state, and the discovery was considered miraculous. The church’s crypt, which houses the relics of St. Martina, is a place of great popular devotion and pilgrimage.