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The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, on Rome’s Esquiline Hill, unites art and faith—home to timeless treasures and the tomb of Pope Francis.

Highlights

• See the mosaics in the nave and hear stories from the Old Testament
• Admire the Blessing Loggia and Hall of Popes
• Step into the Crypt of the Nativity and see Bernini’s final resting place.
• Pay homage to Pope Francis at his resting place in the Basilica.

Description

The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has dominated the city of Rome for sixteen centuries: an excellent Marian temple and cradle of artistic civilization. Located on the top of the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome. According to tradition, the Virgin indicated and inspired the construction of her home on the Esquiline. The numerous treasures it contains make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in a perfect union, offering visitors those unique emotions. Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and many other masterpieces. Discover number of facts about the pontiffs: Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus Populi Romani, which he usually visits before departure and after his return. Discover during your guided tour the astonishing treasures of the Basilica: the visit to the archaeological area reveals the fascinating underground world of the most important Marian shrine in the West. The complex is made up of rooms arranged around a vast hall dating to the Imperial period. Along the itinerary, one can see a thermal bath with mosaics and cavities for heating, ancient roof tiles, decorative frescoes with geometric patterns and a fresco of an important agricultural calendar, a unique example of its kind.

Includes

Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance) 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 Guided tour of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (if selected during booking) Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (if selected during booking) Downloadable Rome City App with multilingual audio guide for your smartphone

Important Information

• You must observe the dress code to access the Santa Maria Maggiore (no shorts, vests, or sleeveless tops)

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund