Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Dome and Underground Guided Tour
The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has dominated Rome for sixteen centuries: a major Marian temple and cradle of artistic civilization. Located atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome.
According to tradition, the Virgin inspired the construction of her home on the Esquiline. Its many treasures make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in perfect harmony, offering visitors unique emotions.
Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and other masterpieces.
Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus Populi Romani, which he visits before departure and upon return. During your guided tour, discover the astonishing treasures of the Basilica. The archaeological area reveals the fascinating underground world of the most important Marian shrine in the West, with rooms arranged around a vast Imperial-era hall.
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Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Dome and Underground Guided Tour
What's included in Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Dome and Underground Guided Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has stood over Rome for sixteen centuries. Located atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the city’s four Papal Basilicas and a major Marian shrine. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary inspired its construction. Rich in treasures, the basilica unites art and spirituality, offering visitors unforgettable emotions. Admire masterpieces such as the Bernini family tomb, the Baptistery, and the Holy Door. Pope Francis entrusts his apostolic journeys to the Salus Populi Romani icon, visiting it before and after each trip. A guided tour includes the archaeological area beneath the basilica, revealing the underground world of this historic sanctuary: rooms surrounding a vast hall from the Imperial period. Along the way, you’ll find mosaics, heating cavities, roof tiles, geometric frescoes, and a unique fresco of an ancient agricultural calendar.
Inclusions
- Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
- Guided tour of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino
- Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- 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 / End Points
- Redeem your voucher with the Touristation staff at the Information Point. Our staff are easy to recognize — they wear red T-shirts and carry an orange umbrella.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Redeem your voucher with the Touristation staff at the Information Point. Our staff are easy to recognize — they wear red T-shirts and carry an orange umbrella.
