Relics from Passion of the Christ Tour in Rome
When the Roman Empire embraced the faith it once persecuted, it exploded into a frenzy of observance for the history and truth of the Christian faith manifest in the literary, the artistic and the relics of the early Christian church. Many of these were then brought to the then capital of the world - Rome. On this tour expect to have an intimate encounter with the Relics of the Passion of Jesus Christ - physical objects which were used in his torture and death, and which were mostly brought to Rome from Jerusalem by St Helena - the mother of Emperor Constantine - in the 4th century. All pilgrims who join us on this once in a lifetime Catholic pilgrimage tour will be given time to reflect and pray as part of their religious tour experience.
Options
Relics from Passion of the Christ Walking Tour in Rome
WALKING TOUR: Tour has some long distances between churches, NOT recommended for people with limited mobility.
What's included in Relics from Passion of the Christ Tour in Rome
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
We begin our tour with a visit to one of the oldest Churches dedicated to Theotokos (Mother of God) in Rome - the Basilica of St Mary Major - containing, beneath its main altar, wood from the manger in which the baby Jesus once lay. The church adorned by every era of Italian art history even holds the body of the devout baroque master artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Basilica di Santa Prassede
We then walk over to the Basilica of Santa Prassede, with its fabulous 9th century mosaics and most importantly the stone pillar on which Jesus was scourged brought from the Praetorium in Jerusalem to Rome in the 13th century.
Santuario della Scala Santa
Continue on to the Holy Steps on which Jesus was judged by Pontius Pilate, transported to Rome in the 4th century by St Helena. Although we won't have time to ascend the stairs on our knees according to the pilgrim tradition, we will also peer into the Holy of Holies at the top to see the icon painted by the Gospel writer, St Luke.
Inclusions
- Expert local guide
- Entry to each site included in the tour
- Some temporary exhibitions and special events may be excluded
- Food and Drink
- Gratuities
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- We will meet at the fountain in the piazza in front of the entrance to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Your guide will be holding an orange sign with a lion head on it.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
There is no ticket for this walking tour. You will show the voucher/ticket to the guide at the meeting point and go from there. **Shoulders and knees should be covered in order to enter the churches** Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours. THE WALKING TOUR HAS LONG DISTANCES BETWEEN CHURCHES THAT MAY BE DIFFICULT FOR THOSE WITH RESTRICTED MOBILITY - People with limited mobility should book the Golfcart Option. Proof of identification may be required, so please bring a valid form of photo ID for each guest. Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat and umbrella. All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government. Wear comfortable walking shoes and be sure to dress warmly in colder temperatures, and bring a cover for bare shoulders inside any churches in the warmer months. Transportation to and from the meeting point will NOT be provided. Customers must arrive at the meeting point on their own.
