Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

The French national church in Rome (built 1518-1589) and home to one of the most important groupings of Caravaggio paintings in the world: the Contarelli Chapel, decorated with three monumental canvases depicting the life of Saint Matthew. The Calling of Saint Matthew (1599-1600) revolutionised Western painting with its theatrical use of harsh directional light cutting through shadow — Christ emerges from darkness pointing at the tax collector Matthew, who looks up in startled disbelief. The Inspiration of Saint Matthew shows the saint writing with an angel, and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew explodes with violent action. Bring a 1 coin for the timed lights, and visit early morning to avoid being trapped behind tour groups.