2 hour(s)
English
Included
Discover the beauty of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Visit the exclusive Lodge of Blessings and the Hall of the Popes
Marvel at Bernini’s stunning staircase
Explore the Liberian Historical Museum with its sacred relics
Enjoy a small-group tour for a more personal experience
€ 47.7
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Embark on a captivating journey through one of Rome’s most magnificent and historically rich basilicas, the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. This small-group tour invites you to uncover the spiritual and artistic grandeur of a church that has stood as a symbol of faith for centuries. As you step inside, admire the breathtaking mosaics that shimmer with divine light and tell stories from early Christianity. Wander through its awe-inspiring interiors, where faith and art merge seamlessly, revealing masterpieces that have inspired pilgrims and visitors alike. With the guidance of an expert, you will trace the legacy of popes, artists, and architects who shaped this sacred space into a monument of timeless beauty. Your journey continues through exclusive areas rarely accessible to the public. Explore the Lodge of Blessings, from where papal blessings were once delivered to the faithful, and marvel at the splendid Hall of the Popes, adorned with portraits and relics that echo the Vatican’s grandeur. Ascend the magnificent Bernini Staircase, an architectural marvel that captures the grace and ingenuity of the Baroque era, and delve into the Liberian Historical Museum, where sacred artifacts and documents reveal the deep history of the basilica. Every step within these hallowed walls offers a glimpse into the heart of Rome’s spiritual and artistic heritage, making this experience a must for lovers of history, art, and devotion.
Guided tour with a professional guide
Access to exclusive basilica areas
Small-group experience
Gratuities
Water bottle
Camera
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Have a camera ready to capture your special moments
Keep personal essentials
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
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The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is a true masterpiece and one of the most significant religious and artistic buildings in Rome. It is one of the four Papal Basilicas and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is the only major early Christian basilica in Rome that has retained its original paleochristian plan and structure virtually intact, despite numerous later additions and embellishments. According to legend (the Legend of the Snow (Miracolo della Neve)), the site for the basilica's construction was miraculously determined: on August 5, 358, in the height of summer, snow fell on the Esquiline Hill, and Pope Liberius traced the perimeter of the future church in the snow. In memory of this miracle, white petals are dropped from the basilica's ceiling every year on August 5 during a solemn mass. The basilica is famous for its mosaics, created in various eras. The Sistine Chapel (Sistina) and the Pauline Chapel (Paolina), built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, are magnificent examples of Baroque architecture and art, housing the tombs of the popes. Another unique and curious fact is the burial place of Pope Francis. Pope Francis expressed a wish to be buried in this basilica, highlighting his special devotion to the icon of the Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the Roman People), which is also enshrined here. A good tip: the best time to visit is in the morning, when you can admire this basilica in peace and quiet.
Visiting Saint Mary Major Basilica on a weekday this summer was one of the most memorable parts of my trip to Rome. Because 2025 is a Jubilee Year, the atmosphere around the basilica felt especially meaningful, with pilgrims arriving steadily throughout the day to pass through the Holy Door, which is only opened during Jubilee celebrations. Despite the increased spiritual traffic, the weekday timing made the experience surprisingly manageable. The line to the Holy Door moved smoothly, and volunteers were present to guide people respectfully through the process. The moment of entering through the door felt solemn yet uplifting, with a quiet reverence among visitors. Inside, the basilica is breathtaking—as always. The gold-tiled ceiling shimmered beautifully under the summer sunlight, and the mosaics along the nave looked even more vivid than I remembered. Even with more pilgrims than usual, the basilica never felt overcrowded; there were plenty of peaceful corners for reflection and photography. I recommend visiting either early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day rush. The surrounding area is also pleasant to explore, with cafés and gelaterias nearby—perfect for cooling down after the visit. Overall, Saint Mary Major during the Summer 2025 Jubilee is an unforgettable combination of history, art, and spiritual significance. Whether you're religious, an architecture lover, or just a curious traveler, it's absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Very beautiful and will maintained basilica! We very much enjoyed staying in the church and viewing the well decorated church. The day we visited was Saturday and was very busy with a lot of mass prayers. The audio guide was not really helpful because there were restrictions to enter the church’s premises that need some translations or guide like the Sistine Chapel’s room, etc.
Incredibly beautiful church! First time we walked by there was quite the line to get in (midday). I came back early and was able to walk right in as soon as it opened (there is security). Really nice to have a few moments to myself at Pope Francis’ tomb. So characteristically simple for him, especially compared to all around. A morning mass was going on in the side chapel housing the oldest icon of Mary. Other great highlights as well. Enjoy your visit.
Absolutely amazing! Definitely worth the visit The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Majore is a beautiful catholic church in Rome. It's one of four Papal Basilica and a important place for catholic people and also for tourist. Here you will find the resting place of the last Pope. Pope Francis was buried here on his request and you can see where they have marked his burial/tomb. The architecture of the church it's absolutely incredible inside and also outside. The ark twork and the stained glass above the door is absolutely breathtaking. It's one of the most beautiful churches that I visit and I highly recommend it to go visit. The entrance it's free but you have to go through a security check.
