Free Things To Do In Rome: Chiese

I have been a big proponent of Free Things To Do In Rome while living here and I can't believe this is the first time I am mentioning such an obvious thing.

Where can you find outstanding architecture?
Where can you find beautiful paintings?
Where can you find sculptures from some of history's most revered artists?
And all for free (usually)?

The answer is CHURCHES of course.  In italiano, chiese.  And they are ALL OVER ROME!

Seriously.  You could be in any random neighborhood with the purpose of trying a great gelateria you had heard about and stumble on a church during their open hours.  Why not go in?  It's free entertainment (usually) and here in Rome, you will be amazed at the grandeur of some of these establishments.  

Don't believe me?  Have a taste of this!

Santa Balbina

Santa Maria in Trastevere

Santa Maria Della Consolazione

St. Peter's Basilica

Santi Ambrogio e Carlo al Corso

San Giovanni in Laterano

Like I said, going into the churches allows you to see some wonderful art, even what some consider masterpieces.

The Ecstasy of St. Teresa by Gianlorenzo Bernini,  in Santa Maria della Vittoria.  Most just know the artist as Bernini.

.

The Madonna di Loreto by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, in Sant'Agostino.  Most just know the artist as Caravaggio.

The Pieta' by Michelangelo Buonarroti (THE Michelangelo in case you didn't know his full name), in St. Peter's Basilica.  My expert tells me this was Michelangelo's first major work of sculpture for a public place, and basically secured his getting the commission to create the David.  He was 24 years old when he completed this!

I still encourage all to visit the museums in the area which often charge admission, however, free art is the best art!