San Cosimato
The church, which has an adjoining monastery, was built in the 10th century and dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian. Because the area was covered with yellow river sand, it was known as "in mica aurea."
The monastery, which was a thriving institution, drawing its income from the management of salt mines, vineyards, and olive groves, was Benedictine until 1233, when it passed to the nuns of the "Recluse di San Damiano." When they also left, it was used as a hospice.
Of the original building, the external portico overlooking the Piazza of the same name remains, which provides access to the complex. A small avenue leads to the Romanesque First Cloister, and then, continuing, to the left is the Second Cloister, and to the left again is the Church of San Cosimato, restored in 1475 by Sixtus IV.
An image of the Virgin, originally from the old St. Peter's, is located on the church's high altar; To the left of the altar is a fresco by Antonio da Viterbo depicting the Madonna, Child, and Saints Clare and Francis, dating back to the time of the restoration.
In a chapel on the left, the altar is a mausoleum for Cardinal Alderano Cybo Malaspina, made with parts of the monument dedicated to him that once stood in Santa Maria del Popolo, where the Cardinal is still buried (the original work was by Sansovino).
The records of Rome. Big numbers, not always enviable, for a big city.
New Phot-O-Matic section. To spend some time looking at photos (also) of Rome.
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Notice for tourists: in Rome you drink for free. Historical fountains and 'big noses'.
Free museums return on the first Sunday of the month.
