Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi (Church of St. Louis of the French), Rome

San Luigi's Contarelli Chapel, situated as the fifth and final chapel on the left, towards the main altar, is a pilgrimage destination for art enthusiasts. It is adorned with three astonishingly dramatic works by Caravaggio (1571–1610), the baroque master known for his captivating use of light and shadow. These paintings were commissioned for the tomb of Mattheiu Cointerel in one of Rome's French churches (San Luigi, dedicated to St. Louis, the patron saint of France). As you approach the chapel, the inevitable coin machine will illuminate the "Calling of Saint Matthew", "Saint Matthew and the Angel", and "Martyrdom of Saint Matthew", arranged from left to right. Caravaggio's unparalleled command of light elevates these works to unparalleled heights.

However, when these paintings were initially unveiled, they stirred considerable controversy among the clergy of San Luigi, who viewed the artist's dramatically realistic style as scandalously disrespectful. The first version of the altarpiece was even rejected, and the priests expressed discontent with the other two paintings as well. Over time, Caravaggio's patron, Cardinal Francesco del Monte, who secured the commission and staunchly defended the artworks, has been fully vindicated.

Other works in the church include pieces by Cavaliere D'Arpino, Francesco Bassano il Giovane, Muziano, Giovanni Baglione, Siciolante da Sermoneta, Jacopino del Conte, Tibaldi, and Antoine Derizet.