About this experience
Descend beneath Santa Maria Maggiore and discover a hidden Roman world of ancient baths, mosaics, and underground heating systems. Admire rare frescoes, including a unique agricultural calendar, and experience a quiet, fascinating journey through Rome’s past beneath one of its greatest basilicas.
At a glance
- Duration: 50 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 50 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
What is included
- Entrance ticket
- Audio headsets for clear listening during the tour
- Guided tour of the underground section with a professional live guide
Not included
- Pick-up/drop-off
- Anything not explicitly listed as “included”
Itinerary and highlights
Explore the underground world beneath the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and uncover layers of ancient Roman history. Discover remains of Roman era structures that predate the basilica, including thermal baths, mosaic fragments, hypocaust heating systems, and ancient pavements and admire geometric frescoes. Experience a quieter, lesser known side of the basilica that reveals the transformation of the site from Roman daily life to the early Christian era.
Meeting and pickup information
- On the day of your visit, go to the entrance of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore- Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 Rome. To ensure a smooth experience, please arrive 15 minutes early. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated and may result in forfeiting the experience.
Languages and tickets
- English — Audio
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- City Rome Tours
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not recommended for children under 7
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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