Santa Maria in Cosmedin

This church was founded in the 6th century on the remains of a 1st-century Roman building, probably a chapel dedicated to Hercules. In the 8th century, it was donated to the Greek community inhabiting the area at the time. Thereafter, it was called Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The famous Bocca della Verita (Mouth of Truth) is located under the portico. It has an imposing Romanesque bell tower and a Gothic canopy inside. Inside the church are fragments of 8th-century mosaics from the ancient Basilica of St.

This church is decidedly outside of what is normally considered the “tourist area” of Rome. The walk, though, is worth it. It'll give you some free time to enjoy the fresh air and finally to admire this very simple, very Roman church which stands in stark contrast to the more exuberant baroque temples around the city. The area couldn't be better, either, as it's located in the Forum Boarium, a space dedicated to the sale of animals in ancient Rome that has some really well-preserved temples and administrative buildings.

The first thing you see when you arrive at the temple is the famous Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), which is really is an ornate manhole cover which will, according to legend, bites the hands of liars to dare to venture the hand. Inside, one of the most intriguing parts is the 8th-century crypt built to house the remains Pope Adrian I had taken from the catacombs.