About this experience
Unveil Rome’s hidden spiritual heritage through three remarkable churches—Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Prassede, and Santa Pudenziana. Discover the profound role of women saints in shaping early Christianity in Rome. Stand in awe before breathtaking mosaics and hear legendary tales, like the miraculous snowfall that inspired Santa Maria Maggiore. Step off the beaten path to explore one of Rome’s oldest house churches, where Saint Pudenziana sheltered persecuted Christians in the early days of faith. Perfect for history and art lovers, this tour brings to life faith, resilience, and untold stories.
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr 30 min
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- It’s recommended to have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour since there is a moderate amount of walking involved
- Bringing food, drinks, luggage or large bags is not allowed
What is included
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly.
- Expert live guide.
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Hotel Pick-up and drop-off is not included
- Optional gratuities
- In Santa Maria maggiore: Museum, Loggia, Hall of Popes, Bernini’s staircase,the archaeological area.
Itinerary and highlights
Begin your journey at one of Rome’s most magnificent papal basilicas. Admire its dazzling golden mosaics dedicated to the Virgin Mary and hear the captivating legend of a miraculous summer snowfall that inspired the church’s foundation.
Step into the world of Saint Prassede, who honoured early Christian martyrs. Marvel at the exquisite Byzantine mosaics in the Chapel of St. Zeno, a hidden masterpiece known as the “Garden of Paradise".
Visit one of the oldest Christian places of worship in Rome, originally a house church for persecuted believers. Behold its striking apse mosaic, a rare fusion of Roman and Christian imagery that offers a glimpse into the early days of the faith.
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet us at the Column of Peace, located in front of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow sign with our company name on it.
Languages and tickets
- German — Guide
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Italian — Guide
- French — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- TOURIKS
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s
- The entrance fees and access to the paid sections of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore are not included (the Liberian Historical Museum, the Loggia delle Benedizioni, the Hall of Popes, Bernini’s staircase and the archaeological area)
- It’s recommended to have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour since there is a moderate amount of walking involved
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted
- Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered)
- Bringing food, drinks, luggage or large bags is not allowed
- Your phone should be put on silence before visiting the basilicas
- We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing some steps and stairs
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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