Sant Ignazio

Chiesa di Sant' Ignazio di Loyola is the premier manifestation of the Jesuit affinity for trompe-l'œil, baroque illusionary fresco painting.

Like Chiesa del Gesu, the facade of Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio looks characteristically like a Jesuit Church. It will remind you of Jesuit Churches all over the Americas. We see the baroque architecture motif of symmetry and curves.

The dome isn’t real, it just looks very convincing. The effect is trompe-l’œil. Even more spectacular is the ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo, who was the very best ever at this kind of baroque, theatrical illusion.

The Birth of Baroque (Waldemar Januszczak Documentary) is a great explanation of the church, ceiling fresco, Andrea Pozzo, Jesuits, and baroque art.

Opposite Piazza di Sant’Ignazio from Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio di Loyola, is headquarters for Carabinieri Art Squad which investigates looted and stolen archaeological and cultural items.

Trevi Fountain is fed by water from Acqua Vergine aquaduct.

Iconic Spanish Steps lead from Piazza di Spana to Trinita dei Monti. Halfway up is a seasonal nativity.