Basilica di SS Cosma e Damiano

Lonely Planet review

Connected to the Roman Forum by the Basilica di Massenzio, this 6th-century basilica incorporates a library from the Foro di Vespasiano and part of the Tempio di Romolo, visible through the glass wall at the end of the nave.

But it's to the magnificent apse mosaics that most eyes are drawn. Against an electric-blue background, the central figure of Christ is flanked by Sts Peter and Paul (in white robes), who are presenting St Cosmas and St Damian to him. On the far left is St Felix, holding up a model of the church, and on the right is St Theodore. Below this scene is a frieze of the Lamb of God (representing Christ) and his flock of 12 lambs (representing the 12 apostles).

In a room off the tranquil 17th-century cloisters is a vast presepio . A fine example of 18th-century Neapolitan workmanship, it features a varied cast of wooden and terracotta figures, including the baby Jesus and various animals.