Santa Maria degli Angeli is an interesting church designed in the mid 16th century by Michelangelo within the ruins of the 3rd century Baths of Diocletian ruins. Situated at Piazza Repubblica, the church has a unique setting and is worth visiting if you will be sightseeing in the Termini area.
Historically, Santa Maria degli Angeli was formed by adapting available space amongst the Baths ruins. Here Michelangelo effectively took advantage of what remained standing and available ruinous material to shape a functional church body out of the ruins.
Interestingly, there is no true facade to the church. Instead, the entrance is found though a fragmented wall, facing Piazza Repubblica. Do have a look at Igor Mitoraj's sculpted bronze doors as you enter the church. Half figures emerge from the bronze, offering an peculiar perspective which effectively matches the unconventional church entrance.
Within Santa Maria degli Angeli, you'll find wide space and high ceilings typical of grand basilicas in Rome. The interior is mostly Baroque in style with large ornate chapels, featuring attractive altar paintings. As you enter the church, there are interesting sculptures, contemporary in style that are interesting to see. You should also have a good luck at the marble flooring and in particular, the Meridien Line which transects part of the church.
Overall, Santa Maria degli Angeli is not a personal favourite of mine but it always makes a neat place to stop when sightseeing in the Termini area, much to do with its unique setting amongst the ruins. It is well worth having a look if you want to see a unique church in Rome.
Note: There are some very good churches in the area as well as the Museo Nazaionale Romano. Collectively, these make a great way to spend a 1/2 day or full day of sightseeing in Rome. I'd suggest allowing 20-30 minutes for your visit to Santa Maria degli Angeli.
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