Founded in the 7th century, the church of San Salvatore took the title "in lauro" (at the laurels) because of the many laurel trees growing in the surroundings.

Rebuilt in the mid-15th century, with an adjoining convent, it was destroyed by fire in 1591 and rebuilt in 1594 to a design by the Bolognese architect Mascherino.

It became the "national church" of the Marche people in Rome following its acquisition by the Pius Sodality of Picentini.

The construction was completed by Ludovico Rusconi Sassi, with the dome, bell tower and sacristy housing works by Nicola Salvi.

Today, the cloister of the monastery complex regularly hosts cultural events.