Hotels near Santa Maria in Aracoeli

Reached by a steep flight of 124 marble steps beside the Vittoriano, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli is where Romans traditionally go to see the Santo Bambino, a carved figure of the infant Jesus long credited with miracles. During the Christmas season the church sets up a large Nativity scene, and on Christmas Eve the Bambino is carried in procession and placed in the crib.

Between Christmas and Epiphany, children recite short poems and sermons from a small pulpit in front of the crib, a custom dating back centuries. The church itself is free to enter and houses Pinturicchio frescoes and a striking gilded ceiling. Nearby, Piazza del Campidoglio and the Capitoline Museums make an easy add-on.

Pro Tip: Skip the steep staircase by walking up the gentler ramp to Piazza del Campidoglio and entering through the side door behind the Capitoline Museums.