San Benedetto in Piscinula

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Map of the Churches of Rome

San Benedetto in Piscinula

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Of ancient foundation, the church of San Benedetto in Piscinulua (St Benedict at the Little 'Pool') boasts Rome's smallest bell tower, which is home to the city's oldest bell (dated 1069). 

Piscinula may come from piscina, the Latin word for fish pond or swimming pool. The church is also known as St Benedettino (Little St Benedict), on account of its small size.  

Interior

The nave, with its beautiful Cosmatesque pavement, is lined with eight diverse ancient columns with equally diverse capitals. 

There is an interesting fragment of a 15th century fresco on the right wall of the presbyterium, which depicts St Anne holding Mary, who is in turn holding the Christ Child.

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