Church of San Luigi dei Francesi

The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, located near Piazza Navona, is one of the most famous and artistically relevant churches in Rome. Built in the 16th century for the French community of Rome, the church is dedicated to Saint Louis IX, King of France. The facade of the church, designed by Giacomo della Porta, is a magnificent example of Mannerist architecture, with its Corinthian columns and statues of French saints. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with a wide and bright central nave, flanked by richly decorated side chapels. Of particular interest is the Contarelli Chapel, which houses three masterpieces by Caravaggio: “The Calling of Saint Matthew,” “Saint Matthew and the Angel,” and “The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew.” These paintings, with their innovative use of light and shadow, are considered among the finest examples of Roman Baroque art and have had a lasting influence on European painting.