Considered to be one of the most beautiful Churches in Rome, the Church of St. Louis of the French, known in Italian as Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi, is a 16th-century French Church. The most interesting aspect about this Church is that it’s filled with works of art by the one and only Caravaggio, which is what we’ll be focusing on today!
Let’s find out something more about Caravaggio’s masterpieces in Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi and why you should add this fascinating Church to your itineraries of Rome!
History and Architecture of Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi
Built in 1518, the Church of St. Louis of the French was created to accommodate the expanding French community in Rome, as, before this Church, they only had a small chapel. The Church was designed and built by Domenico Fontana who took inspiration from a project that Giacomo della Porta was working on and it was commissioned by Giulio de Medici, the man who later on became Pope Clement VII.
The construction of the Church officially ended in 1589, more precisely on October 8th as it became accessible to the public on this day.
The Magnificent Art of Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi
As previously mentioned, one of the most interesting aspects of this Church is its art, which completely embodies and represents the French style through the depiction of his most important historical and religious characters. The style of the totality of the art located in this Church can be defined as Baroque.
The Church has five chapels on the sides of its three naves. Each Chapel is filled with unique pieces of art by artists such as Domenichino, Guido Reni and many more.
Exploring the Contarelli Chapel and Caravaggio’s Masterpieces
As said before, the Church of St. Louis of the French is quite popular for housing some of the most beautiful works of art made by Caravaggio. His art is located in the Contarelli chapel, named after Cardinal Mathieu Cointrel who commissioned many works of art to Caravaggio.
Here’s a list of some of the most beautiful works of art to look out for when visiting Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi:
- Martyrdom of Saint Matthew, Caravaggio;
- Calling of Saint Matthew, Caravaggio;
- Saint Matthew and the angel, Caravaggio;
Mausoleums at Chiesa San Luigi dei Francesi
Another thing that the Church of St. Louis of the French is known for is that it’s the home of some famous graves, such as the tomb of Pauline de Beaumont and Cardinal François Joachin de Bernis.
Conclusion
Visiting the Church of St. Louis of the French is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Caravaggio’s beautiful art. If you want to get to know more about Italy and Rome, check out our other blogs and book a private tour with us!
