Religious Presences and Places in the City of Rome in the Contemporary Age

Recent research has redefined the relationship between religion and urban spaces, recognizing religion as a key factor in shaping both the material and immaterial fabric of cities. Moving beyond the notion of secularization, recent studies reveal how diverse religious traditions actively contribute to urban identity, cultural heritage, and public life. This article presents findings from the CHANGES survey conducted in Rome, which gathered data on individual well-being, cultural consumption, linguistic practices, and religious participation. Our contribution focuses on a specific section of the survey, addressing religious self-identification, religious diversity, the attendance of places of worship, and the relationship between religion and well-being in the city. The results highlight a complex mosaic of religious affiliations—where, despite Catholicism’s predominance, minority faiths play an increasingly significant role, as well as meanings associated with places of worship, and reveal subtle associations between religiosity and resilience. These insights emphasize the need for interdisciplinary approaches in urban cultural policy to enhance and promote a pluralistic heritage.