Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Guided Tour

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Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Guided Tour

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Admire the mix of architectural styles and historic significance of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

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Highlights

Feel the awe of looking upon a relic supposedly from the time of Christ
Learn about the fascinating history of Christianity in the heart of Rome
Discover one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome with a guided tour
Admire a ceiling of shining gold and mosaic scenes of Christ's childhood
Find the altar with 5 pieces of wood from Jesus' manger in Bethlehem

Description

Explore a Vatican territory without being in Vatican City. Discover a church where classical antiquity, Christianity and modernity meet. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas, one of the most significant Catholic Churches in the world. As you arrive at Santa Maria Maggiore, you find yourself in front of a beautiful elaborate facade and a striking bell tower. Upon entry to the church, the expansive central nave stretches out in front of the viewer. Its ceiling was decorated with the first gold brought back to Europe from the New World. Dominating the front side of the nave is a triumphal arch covered with intricate mosaics arranged in four rows which depict scenes from Jesus’ childhood. Beneath the triumphal arch, is the high altar which is above a relic which contains five pieces of wood said to be from the manger in which Christ was laid in Bethlehem.

Includes

Expert guide Headsets (if needed) Access to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Access to Secret Rooms (if option is selected) Access to Santa Prassede (if option is selected)

Important Information

Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 30 minutes Photography with a flash is not allowed inside Food and drinks are not allowed, with the exception of water