Church of St Francesco a Ripa

The charming church of San Francesco a Ripa is in the lively Trastevere quarter of Rome. A district known for its truly Roman atmosphere, the church is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, who stayed in the adjacent convent during his visit to the city in 1219. It is located close to the Tiber River's edge, known as the "ripa". The church was originally built by Franciscan follower who was part of the influential Anguillara family, but it was completely rebuilt in 1680.

The room where St. Francis stayed is maintained, complete with his stone pillow and crucifix. The main attraction of San Francesco a Ripa, though, is a sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the Ecstasy of Beata Ludovica, which is a sensual rendering in stone.

The church is open from 7:00 am until 12:00 pm and from 4:30 pm until 7:30 pm