Chiesa di Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano

The Chiesa di Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano is primarily designed in the Baroque architectural style, showcasing characteristic features such as grandeur, elaborate forms, and an emphasis on decorative elements. The church’s facade, created by Carlo Maderno in 1603, is often referred to as one of the earliest fully realized examples of Baroque architecture.

Its unique design marks a transition from late Mannerism to the Baroque period, illustrating a complex approach to visual perception and urban interaction. The central part of the facade appears to advance outward, which several architectural critics believe foreshadows the emblematic sinuous forms utilized later in Baroque architecture.

Visitors can appreciate how Maderno’s innovative architectural choices not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the church but also reflect the dynamic changes in Roman architecture during the early seventeenth century.

Inside the Chiesa di Santa Susanna, visitors will find a wealth of religious artworks and murals that enrich the overall experience. One of the remarkable features is the series of frescoes depicting the life of Saint Susanna, painted by Baldassare Croce in 1595, which adorn the church’s walls.

The altar area displays a stunning altarpiece by Tommaso Laureti titled “Martirio di Santa Susanna,” which is a centerpiece of artistic and spiritual significance. Additionally, Cesare Nebbia’s fresco, “Gloria di Santa Susanna,” can be seen in the abside, contributing to the church’s rich artistic narrative.

Furthermore, the chapel of Peretti hosts important works, including “Il Martirio di San Lorenzo,” also by Nebbia, and “Il Battesimo di San Genesio” by Baldassare Croce. Overall, these artworks not only illustrate biblical stories but also showcase the evolution of religious art in this renowned Roman church.

Yes, visitors to the Chiesa di Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano can attend services. This church has a vibrant liturgical life and is known for welcoming both locals and tourists to its liturgies. Regular Mass services are conducted that allow attendees to experience the spiritual atmosphere and community life associated with this historic church.

Moreover, since it functions as a national church for American Catholics in Rome, the services often incorporate elements significant to the American diaspora, making it special for visitors from the USA. The church continues to embrace its role as a center for worship, with Mass usually held in English, although other languages may also be represented. Therefore, whether you are attending for spiritual enrichment or cultural engagement, Chiesa di Santa Susanna provides an inviting environment.

Chiesa di Santa Susanna holds significant cultural and historical importance in Rome. It serves not only as a religious site but also as a representative of the architectural evolution during the Baroque period, showcasing innovative designs that have influenced later constructions. The church’s facade, attributed to Carlo Maderno, epitomizes the transition in architectural style from the late Renaissance to Baroque, reflecting the broader artistic trends of its time.

Additionally, it carries significance as the national church for American Catholics, a role it has embraced since 1922 due to its proximity to the first American embassy in Rome. The church acts as a spiritual haven for expatriates and visitors, representing the interconnectedness of the Catholic faith across different cultures.

This unique dual role of Chiesa di Santa Susanna as both a monument of architectural excellence and a place of worship highlights its ongoing relevance in both local and international contexts.

The interior of Chiesa di Santa Susanna is equally captivating and showcases various notable design features that enhance its Baroque character. The church consists of a single nave, which creates an open and inviting space for worshippers and visitors alike. The walls are adorned with frescoes depicting the stories of Saint Susanna, adding a narrative quality to the worship space that draws on both religious and artistic traditions.

The ceiling features a beautifully designed coffered structure, enhanced with gilded decorations that reflect the light and create a sense of richness and elegance throughout the interior. The presbytery area is separated from the nave by a delicately crafted marble balaustrade, emphasizing the ceremonial importance of the altar.

In the apse, the semicircular design frames a stunning fresco by Cesare Nebbia, creating a focal point that captures the viewer’s attention. Overall, the harmonious blend of art and architecture in the interior design of Santa Susanna invites moments of contemplation and appreciation, appealing to both the faithful and those interested in Baroque art.

The Chiesa di Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano is not only notable for its architectural beauty but also for its rich archaeological significance. During excavation efforts in the 19th and 20th centuries, remnants of an ancient Roman residential structure dating back to the 3rd century were uncovered beneath the church, revealing layers of history that date back to the imperial period.

A notable find close to the altar includes a sarcophagus containing painted plaster fragments, highlighting the early Christian presence in this area. These archaeological discoveries provide insight into the continuity of religious practices in Rome, from ancient Roman traditions to the establishment of early Christianity.

Furthermore, more recent excavations in the 1990s revealed mosaics and fresco fragments that hint at the grandeur of high-status Roman villas once located in this vicinity. Visitors can view some of these findings under the glass flooring in the sacristy, allowing them to appreciate the historical depth of the site firsthand.