Overview
The Church of San Bonaventura al Palatino, built in 1675 on the initiative of Cardinal Francesco Barberini, stands on the Palatine Hill in Rome's Campitelli district. Built over the remains of a cistern belonging to the Claudian aqueduct, the church is dedicated to St. Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, an illustrious figure of the Franciscan order from the 13th century.
Next to the building stands a convent, which became an important centre of Franciscan spirituality and mission, hosting notable personalities such as the Blessed Bonaventure of Barcelona and St Leonard of Porto Maurizio. The latter, famous for promoting the practice of the Via Crucis, also spread this devotion through the aedicules of the Stations, arranged along the path leading to the church.
The sober and essential façade is enriched by a statue of Saint Bonaventure dating back to the 18th century. The interior, characterised by a single nave, holds valuable works of art, including Filippo Micheli's Immaculate Conception on the high altar and two paintings by Giovanni Battista Benaschi: the Crucifixion and the Annunciation.
An important aspect is the presence of the remains of Saint Leonard of Porto Maurizio, preserved inside the church. His monastic cell has been transformed into a small museum, offering visitors a moving insight into the saint's life.
Immersed in the greenery of the Palatine Hill, the church stands out as a place of silence and contemplation, far from the urban hubbub. Still today it represents a spiritual reference point, hosting liturgical celebrations and pastoral activities, especially for young people, thus continuing the Franciscan tradition of hospitality and mission.
Enrich your visit The Church of San Bonaventura al Palatino by participating in the experience of Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Guided Tour.
Via di S. Bonaventura, 7, 00186 Roma RM, Italia
