Chiesa del Gesú
16 Via degli Astalli Roma
Mother Church of the Society of Jesus. Tomb of St. Ignatius of Loyola & Relics of St. Francis Xavier
This church is the epitome of Baroque art . High ceilings are covered in golden arches of intricate carvings. White angels twirl and sing during the opening of the heavens. Billowing clouds and rays of sunshine break through the frame of the ceiling's painting.
This artistic and architectural style was developed to evoke spiritual emotions in response to the Protestant Reformation by using vivid colors and elaborate movements.
Chiesa del Gesù is the mother church for the Jesuits and was built in 1568. It is home to the altar and tomb of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
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"The Painting of St. Ignatius that descends in Rome" - EWTN Vaticano