Rome - Santa Maria degli Angeli

The central complex of the Baths was preserved by being incorporated into this church dedicated to the Virgin and her attendant archangels. It was designed by Michelangelo, taking in parts of the ancient structure, in particular the tepidarium (warm bath), a hall 90m/295ft long, 27m/90ft wide and 30m/100ft high. The church is in the form of a Greek cross (with arms of equal length), with chapels at the angles. In order to keep the church dry its floor was raised 2m/6.5ft above ground level, so that the bases of the ancient columns were buried. The building of the church was continued after Michelangelo's death, and thereafter it was restored and redecorated on a number of occasions. Many well-known personalities are buried in the church, which is also used by the State for solemn services on special occasions.