Hidden Gems of Rome Women Saints and Early Christian Basilicas
Unveil Rome’s hidden spiritual heritage through three remarkable churches—Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Prassede, and Santa Pudenziana. Discover the profound role of women saints in shaping early Christianity in Rome. Stand in awe before breathtaking mosaics and hear legendary tales, like the miraculous snowfall that inspired Santa Maria Maggiore. Step off the beaten path to explore one of Rome’s oldest house churches, where Saint Pudenziana sheltered persecuted Christians in the early days of faith. Perfect for history and art lovers, this tour brings to life faith, resilience, and untold stories.
Options
Private tour in English
Private tour in English: Select this option for a private guided tour in English
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
What's included in Hidden Gems of Rome Women Saints and Early Christian Basilicas
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Begin your journey at one of Rome’s most magnificent papal basilicas. Admire its dazzling golden mosaics dedicated to the Virgin Mary and hear the captivating legend of a miraculous summer snowfall that inspired the church’s foundation.
Basilica di Santa Prassede
Step into the world of Saint Prassede, who honoured early Christian martyrs. Marvel at the exquisite Byzantine mosaics in the Chapel of St. Zeno, a hidden masterpiece known as the “Garden of Paradise".
Visit one of the oldest Christian places of worship in Rome, originally a house church for persecuted believers. Behold its striking apse mosaic, a rare fusion of Roman and Christian imagery that offers a glimpse into the early days of the faith.
Inclusions
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly.
- Expert live guide.
- Food and drinks
- Hotel Pick-up and drop-off is not included
- Optional gratuities
- In Santa Maria maggiore: Museum, Loggia, Hall of Popes, Bernini’s staircase,the archaeological area.
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s
- The entrance fees and access to the paid sections of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore are not included (the Liberian Historical Museum, the Loggia delle Benedizioni, the Hall of Popes, Bernini’s staircase and the archaeological area)
- It’s recommended to have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour since there is a moderate amount of walking involved
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted
- Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered)
- Bringing food, drinks, luggage or large bags is not allowed
- Your phone should be put on silence before visiting the basilicas
- We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing some steps and stairs
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Meet us at the Column of Peace, located in front of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow sign with our company name on it.
End Points
- This tour ends at Basilica di Santa Pudenziana.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Meet us at the Column of Peace, located in front of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow Touriks sign.
