1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
English
Included
Capture history with an expert and passionate guide
Explore Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica’s stunning architecture and mosaics
Climb the Panoramic Dome for stunning city views with staff for security
Experience a holy door and immerse yourself in the history, art, and culture
€ 0
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Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
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Embark on an unforgettable guided tour of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Romes most magnificent basilicas. Your expert guide will lead you through the rich history and architectural marvels of this iconic landmark, highlighting the stunning mosaics, impressive interiors, and sacred artworks that have made it a symbol of the Eternal City. Climb the Dome to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, taking in the citys landmarks and natural beauty from a unique vantage point.
Continue your journey with visits to the Liberiano Museum, the Loggia delle Benedizioni, and Sala dei Papi, where your guide provides in-depth insights into the masterpieces and their cultural and spiritual significance. Discover the elegant Scala del Bernini, designed by Flaminio Ponzio, adding to the grandeur of your experience. This guided tour combines art, history, architecture, and spectacular views, offering a complete and immersive exploration of Santa Maria Maggiore and its treasures.
Ticket for the Dome of the Basilica
Access to Loggia of Benedictions
Access to Room of the Popes
Access to Bernini’s Stairs
Access to Historic Liberian Museum
Expert guide
Headsets
Hotel pick up and drop off
Gratuities
Passport or ID card
Comfortable shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
This tour will have a maximum of 20 travelers
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
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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.
