Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire is its connection to a former slave who rose to become Pope Callixtus I. Now, standing before this church, let me tell you its story.
The Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire has ancient origins. Tradition says that the church was built over the house where Pope Callixtus I often prayed. It is said that he suffered martyrdom there by drowning.
In the courtyard of the former convent connected to the church, there is a well. The story goes that the Pope was martyred in this well. The well is preserved in the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire. However, the stone tied to his neck is kept in the nearby Basilica Maggiore di S. Maria in Trastevere. It remains there with other torture devices.
Initially, a memorial oratory was built on the site of his martyrdom. Then in the 8th century, Pope Gregory III had a temple erected here. The church was rebuilt in the 12th century. It was rebuilt again in 1610 by Orazio Torriani. At that time, the adjoining monastery was also built for Benedictine monks.
Since 1517, the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire has been the seat of the eponymous cardinal’s title. The buildings suffered severe damage during the French occupation in the early 19th century. Substantial restoration work took place during the pontificate of Pius IX in 1851. Further significant restoration occurred in the 1930s under architect Giuseppe Momo.
The facade of the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire dates back to the 17th century. It displays the coat of arms of Paul V in the upper order. The interior has a single nave with a chapel on each side.
Inside the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire in the chapel to the right, are two angels. They are attributed to Gian Lorenzo Bernini. They support the painting of San Mauro Abate by Pier Leone Ghezzi. In the vault, there is a fresco of the Gloria di San Callisto by Antonio Achilli.
The chapel to the left contains the well. According to tradition, Pope Callixtus I was martyred in this well. The story of Callisto is compelling. He was a slave. He managed funds poorly. Yet, he rose to become the Bishop of Rome.
Callisto’s papacy was marked by controversy. He faced opposition from figures like Hippolytus. They challenged his theological views and his approach to church discipline. Despite these challenges, Callisto left a lasting impact on the early Church.
The Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire stands as a reminder of his life. It is a testament to his faith. It is a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
So, as you stand before the Chiesa di San Callisto Papa e Martire remember the story of Pope Callixtus I. He was a former slave. He became a Pope. He was eventually martyred for his beliefs. His legacy continues to inspire.