The Santa Maria in Via Church (also called the Madonna del Pozzo) is located near the Galleria Alberto Sordi and the Via del Tritone in the center of Rome. Highlights are paintings by Cavalier d’Arpino and a 16th century wooden crucifix. The well the the church owes its second name to, is reputed to possess healing powers.
A brief history of the church of Santa Maria in Via in Rome
The church owes its nickname Madonna del Pozzo to the Cappella del Pozzo (“Chapel of the Well”), which was built in the 13th century to house a statue of the Madonna found in a well in 1256.
The second part of the church’s name, “in Via,” refers to the current Via del Corso. At the time this street was still called Via Lata, but was usually referred to as La Via (“The Street”) because of its importance.
The church was reconstructed twice, in 1491 and in 1594. The second reconstruction was overseen by Francesco da Volterra.
The facade was only finished in 1670, by Carlo Rainaldi, and consists of two levels. The central gate is flanked by two windows, while the upper level is characterized by a large window with a balustrade and a tympanum.
The interior consists of a single nave with four chapels on either side.
What to see
The “Madonna del Pozzo” effigy is located in the first chapel on the right. The well itself is a minor pilgrim’s destination.
In the Cappella dell’Annunciazione, there are two paintings by Cavalier D’Arpino, “Adoration of the Magi” and “Nativity”, both dated 1596.
In the Santissima Trinità Chapel, there is a 16th century wooden crucifix by an anonymous local sculptor.
Useful Information
The address of the Santa Maria in Via Church is Via del Mortaro, 24 (tel. 0039 06 69940380). Phone: +39 06 69940380. Bus: 51, 53, 62, 63, 71, 80, 83, 85, 116, 117, 160, 160F, 492, C3, FRP, N4, N5, N12. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 07:15 to 12:45 and from 16:00 to 20:00. July and August the church stays open one hour longer in the evening. Entrance fee: Free of charge. (Note that hours may be subject to change.)
Special events
Annual: During the Christmas season, a nativity scene exhibition is held in the cloister. An antique nativity scene is also on display inside the church itself.
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