Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Save
  • Address
    Via XX Settembre 17, Sallustiano
  • Show map Close map
  • Phone
    06 482 61 90
  • Transport
    underground rail: Repubblica

Let us know if these details are incorrect

Lonely Planet review

Stuck on a busy road junction, this modest and not particularly enticing church holds one of Bernini's most extravagant and sexually charged sculptures. In the last chapel on the left, the Santa Teresa traffita dall'amore di Dio (Ecstasy of St Teresa) depicts Teresa floating in ecstasy on a cloud while a teasing angel pierces her repeatedly with a golden arrow.

Watching the whole scene are a number of figures, including Cardinal Federico Cornaro, for whom the chapel was built.Whatever Teresa's up to, it's a stunning work, bathed in soft natural light filtering through a concealed window. Go in the afternoon for the most stunning effect.