Sanctuary of Saints Tryphonia and Cyrilla in Rome: A Journey Between Faith and History

Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Rome as you discover the Sanctuary dedicated to Saints Tryphonia and Cyrilla. A place of ancient faith, steeped in history and legend, inviting reflection and devotion.

The Sanctuary: Piazza San Silvestro and the Church of San Silvestro in Capite

The Sanctuary, ideally located in Piazza San Silvestro, finds its focal point in the Church of San Silvestro in Capite. This basilica, rich in artworks and historical testimonies, preserves memories linked to the two saints.

Saint Cyrilla: Roman Martyr and Daughter of Saint Tryphonia

Saint Cyrilla, a Roman martyr, is venerated as the daughter of Saint Tryphonia. Tradition recounts that the priest Justinus took care of her burial in the cemetery of Santa Ciriaca, near San Lorenzo, or, according to other sources, in the adjacent cemetery of Sant’Ippolito on Via Tiburtina. It is said that her body was later transferred by Pope Paul I to the Church of San Silvestro in Capite, as evidenced by an ancient plaque placed in the portico. Interestingly, 18th-century guides report that part of her relics were also found in St. Peter’s Basilica. Her final transfer to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin remains an event shrouded in mystery for scholars.

Although the exact tombs of the martyrs Tryphonia and Cyrilla have not been identified with certainty, their spiritual presence lingers in these sacred places, offering a moving experience for pilgrims.

History of the Sanctuary: A Journey of Faith Through the Centuries

The history of the Sanctuary is shrouded in mystery, with few historical certainties. The first mention dates back to the legendary *Passio Polychronii* from the 6th century. It is said that in the 8th century, the relics of the saints found their final resting place in the Church of San Silvestro in Capite.

As is typical of martyr sanctuaries, the importance of the place lies in the presence of the tombs of the witnesses of faith. The hagiographies, though legendary, place great emphasis on the burial of the martyrs. The *Passio Polychronii* recounts that Tryphonia, who died in prayer a few days after baptism (and thus, according to the account, not a martyr), was buried with her daughter Cyrilla by the priest Justinus in the same crypt as Saint Hippolytus.

A cippus transformed into an altar in the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin bore an inscription, modeled on the account of the *Passio*, which read: *BEATE CIRILLE VIRG ET MART FILIE DECII* (Juvenal).

Ideas for an Adventurous Research: Discovering the Secrets of the Sanctuary

For the most curious and adventurous visitors, the Sanctuary offers several research ideas:

• Investigate the Passio Polychronii: Delve deeper into the study of this ancient text to seek clues about the lives and martyrdom of the saints.
• Explore the Church of San Silvestro in Capite: Admire the artworks and look for traces of the saints’ relics, following historical and artistic indications.
• Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin: Search for the cippus with the inscription dedicated to Saint Cyrilla and explore the history of the connection between the saints and this basilica.

The visit to the Sanctuary of Saints Tryphonia and Cyrilla is an experience that combines faith, history, and art, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Rome’s spiritual heritage and reflect on the meaning of martyrdom and holiness.

Piazza di S.Silvestro, 17A, 00187 Rome, Italy