St. Mary’s Basilica: Pope Francis Tomb, Dome & Underground

5.0
(1 reviews)

2 to 3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

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.

What's Included

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

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This voucher is not your ticket. Please exchange it at the meeting point, located at the fountain in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. You will find our Touristation staff, wearing a red T-shirt and bag, and holding an orange umbrella and/or a Touristation sign.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Ticket Redemption Point

Itinerary

Duration: 2 to 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    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.

    2 hours Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • For safety reasons, this activity cannot be booked for children under the age of 7.
  • Please note that the meeting point is located right in front of the Basilica entrance, near the fountain.
Supplied by TOURISTATION

Tags

Architecture Tours
Cultural Tours
Walking Tours
Archaeology Tours
Religious Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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