Basilica di Santa Prassede

Breathtaking little church that is a must-​see for a day or week in Rome. The hours are odd but if you make it a point to stop in here you won’t be disappointed.
The two most famous elements of this basilica are the gorgeous mosaic apses, as well as (allegedly) a segment of the pillar upon which Jesus was flogged and tortured before his crucifixion in Jerusalem.
A very cool spot to check out if you’re in the area!

A glorious minor basilica just a few blocks from S Maria Maggiore. The church is known for it’s early Roman mosaics, dating from the 800’s. The apse mosaics depict Jesus and the saints and pay homage to Pope Paschal who sponsored the work. The well known chapel of St Zeno is covered in beautiful mosaic works from the same time period. Since this is a small chapel, you can get much closer to the art and see all the details (bring € 1 coins for light).
S. Prassede also is home to some notable relics including the bones of St Praxidus which are viewable in the crypt, and a fragment of the pillar where Christ was scourged (brought to Rome by Empress Theodora in the 400’s). The only small downside is that the church closes from 12 – 4 daily so plan your visit carefully.