About this experience
The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has dominated the city of Rome for sixteen centuries: an excellent Marian temple and cradle of artistic civilization.
Located on the top of the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome. According to tradition, the Virgin indicated and inspired the construction of her home on the Esquiline.
The numerous treasures it contains make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in a perfect union, offering visitors those unique emotions. Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and many other masterpieces. Discover number of facts about the pontiffs: Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus, which he usually visits before departure and after his return or Mass was celebrated in Santa Maria Maggiore for the first time on Christmas Eve and for centuries the Pontiffs went to the Basilica maintaining this custom.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr–3 hr
- Skip-the-line entry
What is included
- Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point, in front of Basilica entrance near fountain
- Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Ita, Eng, Fr, Ger, Spa)
- Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
Not included
- Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Itinerary and highlights
Located on the top of the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome. According to tradition, the Virgin indicated and inspired the construction of her home on the Esquiline.
The numerous treasures it contains make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in a perfect union, offering visitors those unique emotions. Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and many other masterpieces. Discover number of facts about the pontiffs: Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus, which he usually visits before departure and after his return or Mass was celebrated in Santa Maria Maggiore for the first time on Christmas Eve and for centuries the Pontiffs went to the Basilica maintaining this custom.
Languages and tickets
- German — Audio
- English — Audio
- Italian — Audio
- French — Audio
- Spanish — Audio
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- TOURISTATION
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- For safety reasons, this activity cannot be booked for children under the age of 7.
- Please note that the meeting point is located right in front of the Basilica entrance, near the fountain.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveller reviews and photos
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