Magnificent churches of Rome

St. Clement was built on top of a 4th century church that was built on top of a 1st century pagan temple. With layer upon layer of history, there is a 60-foot difference between the ground level today and the 1st century level. (Kenneth Nowell)

Art lovers should head straight to St. Louis of France, or San Luigi Dei Francesi, which holds some of Caravaggio’s most well-known masterpieces. (Kenneth Nowell)

This popular church is renowned for its architecture. Though a bit out of the way, St. Paul Outside the Wall is only a 10-minute walk from the closest Metro station. Here you will find the remains of St. Paul, the author of many New Testament letters, and the chains that bound him during his final days. (Kenneth Nowell)

For a special Mother's Day trip, journey to San Agostino, or St. Augustine. The church pays tribute to St. Augustine and houses the remains of his mother, who famously prayed for his conversion to Christianity for more than 30 years. There’s a statue inside of Mary with the Baby Jesus, and women experiencing difficult pregnancies often come to pray.  (Kenneth Nowell)

This church was built upon the preserved 200 A.D. home of St. Cecilia, a young martyr.  (Kenneth Nowell)

To appreciate the beauty of this church, you'll have to look up. Andrea Pozzo painted its famous trompe l'oeil ceiling painting, which is often compared to the Sistine Chapel as one of the finest in Rome.  (Kenneth Nowell)

St. Mary in Trastevere was one of the first legal places of worship in Rome. This church also combines Roman ruins with newer Christian elements. For example, the various sized and shaped columns are recycled from Roman baths.  (Kenneth Nowell)

Satisfy the art-lover within with a visit to this chapel. The church itself is a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and houses a famous Bernini sculpture of St. Teresa of Avila.  (Kenneth Nowell)

A visit to Rome is not complete without a trip to Vatican City. Take your time wandering the square outside of one of the world's largest churches.  (Kenneth Nowell)

This church houses a renowned relic - a marble fragment from the pillar upon which Jesus Christ was scourged. It is estimated that about 2000 saints are buried at the site, and a spot marks where the blood of martyrs was poured on the floor. (Kenneth Nowell)

As one of the few round churches in Rome, St. Stephen's is a unique site. It is dedicated to Christian martyrs, including those who died in the gladiator games at the nearby Colosseum. Not for the faint of heart, inside you will find graphic oil paintings that depict many of the gruesome tortures endured by faithful martyrs. (Kenneth Nowell)