The Theodoli Chapel or Chapel of Saint Catherine «del Calice» in the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome is an important monument of Roman Mannerism. Although less known than some of the other side chapels of the same church it is a major work in the oeuvre of Giulio Mazzoni. The chapel opens at the end of the left arm of the transept next to the famous Cerasi Chapel.
Theodoli Chapel
Stucco angels in the corner of the ceiling with the symbols of episcopal authority in the background.
The paintings of the vault
White stucco angels holding a medaillon of St John the Baptist.
The Parish Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is a titular church and a minor basilica in Rome run by the Augustinian order. It stands on the north side of Piazza del Popolo, one of the most famous squares in the city. The church is hemmed in between the Pincian Hill and Porta del Popolo, one of the gates in the Aurelian Wall as well as the starting point of Via Flaminia, the most important route from the north. Its location made the basilica the first church for the majority of travellers entering the city. The church contains works by several famous artists, such as Raphael, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Caravaggio, Alessandro Algardi, Pinturicchio, Andrea Bregno, Guillaume de Marcillat and Donato Bramante.
The church from Piazza del Popolo
The foundation legend of the church, in an engraving from Giacomo Alberici's book (1599)
Pope Paschal II
The icon of Madonna del Popolo