Before talking about this church first we must look at the obelisk that is in front of the church. In 1667 it was said that Bernini dreamed up this idea of an obelisk on the back of a marble elephant. The elephant is the ancient symbol of intelligence and piety which are important virtues in Christianity. These obelisks are brought over from Egypt to symbolize the power the church has. Ironically now there are more obelisks in Rome then there are in Egypt.
 |
| Bernini statue seen in front of this couple |
The Dominican monks were said to have had a stronghold in this church. Many tombs are present in the church including Leo X and Clement VII whom were both from the powerful Medici family. On the steps next to the alter there is a beautiful sculpture done by Michelangelo called
Risen Christ. The main reason this church is so well known is it holds the body of St. Catherine of Sienna. Saints were said to be an intersessor between God and man. Their body parts are said to hold special healing powers so many people travel to see her body encased in marble. All Catholic churches are required to have a relic to be a Catholic church.
 |
| Body of Catherine of Sienna |
No comments:
Post a Comment