Basilica of Saint Lorenzo in Lucina

The church where a matron housed christian prisoners

The Church is in Piazza San Lorenzo, near Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi fountain. Entering the gate, before walking in the church, you will see parts of an old temple engraded in the walls. It is said that the church used to be a place dedicated to the god of war, and was used for entertainment and military training purposes. It then became the home of a wealthy matron named Lucina. This woman created a domestic ecclecia, a private place of worship. She also housed different saints, hiding them from being persecuted, including Pope Marcellus. 

Around the 17th century the church was rebuilt, with the main changes involving the floor being raised to avoid flooding from the Tiber, and the side naves being transformed into side chapels.

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