Like many squares in Rome the Piazza Sant’Egidio is named for the church that can be found there. This church in turn gets its name from the patron saint of cripples and beggars, the Benedict Egidio. The second attraction on the square is the historical building Palazzo Velli.
Piazza Sant’Egidio Rome
Tourist attractions
The Sant’Egidio Church is at the moment closed for restoration.
Across from the Chiesa di Sant’Egidio the Palazzo Velli can be seen. It was built in the 15th century, but divided into smaller buildings and sold in the 17th century.
The left side (no. 7) became property of the Ospizio dei Pellegrini e Convalescenti (as the marble inscription above the architrave testifies) and later of the Orsini family. The coat-of-arms of the Orsini (a bear with a red rose) can still be seen above the door.
The door with no. 9 is now part of the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, who housed the Conservatorio della Divina Clemenza (or the Rifugio) there. The institution was financed by noble Romans and was meant for young girls who had been mistreated by their husbands and wanted to put their lives in the service of the Lord.
Palazzo Velli consists of two floors with each 6 windows. The Velli coat-of-arms can also be seen: A tree with two golden stars.