About
There are two saints commemorated in this basilica, one of whom is known for his famous quote.
This minor basilica is dedicated to Saint Ambrose (Ambrosius) and Saint Carlos Borromeo, the patron saints of Milan. Unlike Roman customs, in Milan, the church congregation did not fast on Saturdays. In response to a visiting saint on how to best handle the different customs, Ambrose replied, “When I go to Rome, I fast on Saturday, but here I do not. Do you also follow the custom of whatever church you attend, if you do not want to give or receive scandal?” Later elaborations of the quote boiled it down to the phrase we know today. The impressive interior of the church contains many large canvas paintings, statues, painted ceilings, as well as countless ornate details. Unlike other churches in Rome with admission fees or long lines, this one has no entrance fees or line ups!
