Secrets beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore tour
Attractions & guided tours

Secrets beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore tour

Free cancellation
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Why you’ll love this…
  • Discover the Loggia of blessings, and Jesus’ Crib relic
  • Explore the Room of the Popes, Bernini’s stairs, and Historic Liberian Museum
  • Step back in time with a knowledgeable and passionate guide
  • Look up at The Renaissance ceiling, and the bell tower
What to expect

Are you ready for an hour exploring one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas? If so, this tour is perfect for uncovering the facts of one of the most significant Catholic Churches in the city and the world.

Built at the top of Cispius, the highest part of the Esquiline Hill, your eyes will shine at the elaborate facade and a striking bell tower. Hear about the five pieces of wood said to be from the manger in which Christ was laid in Bethlehem.

Marvel by the elegance of the Loggia of Benedictions on the second floor, topped with a sculptural group. At the center are Mary and Jesus flanked by popes. Explore Bernini’s spiral staircase, and the historic Liberian museum’s collection, completing an increase in historical knowledge.

Read more
What's included
  • check Guided tour
  • check Headsets (to hear the guide)
  • check Entrance ticket
Where

Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy

Meeting point:
Please meet the local guide, who will be holding a "Loving Rome" orange flag, 15 minutes before the start time at Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore. The location is in the between via Gioberti (Esquilino district) and via Merulana (Esquilino-Monti). You'll be taken through the main entrance and there will be an official employee that accompanies you to enter the basilica.
What to remember
  • Due to uneven and steep surfaces, the activity is unsuitable for anyone with walking difficulties, wheelchair users or strollers
  • It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing that covers the shoulders and knees (if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry)
  • Please note, luggage, backpacks or large bags, umbrellas, tripods, animals, weapon or sharp objects, unaccompanied minors, food and drink (except water) are not permitted to enter
  • There is an airport-style security. During high season, the wait may be up to 30 minutes
  • Late arrivals will not be accommodated
  • Photography with a flash is not allowed inside. The staff are authorized to delete any files taken
Read more
Provider
Loving Rome
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

0%
0%
0%
0%
0%

You might also like

Trionfale Market street food tour with tasting
Excursions & day trips

Trionfale Market street food tour with tasting

Visit Mercato Trionfale, one of Italy's largest and most vibrant markets, and taste local food and wine.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Pantheon entry ticket with downloadable audio guide
Attractions & guided tours

Pantheon entry ticket with downloadable audio guide

Explore Rome's iconic Pantheon with an entry ticket and audio guide. Discover its history and architectural wonders. Book now.

Flexible
Available in:

en, it, fr, es, de 

Instant Confirmation
Rome self-guided city tour by electric bike
Activities

Rome self-guided city tour by electric bike

Discover Rome effortlessly on an e-bike. Glide past iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Experience the Eternal City's magic today!

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Rome self-guided city tour by bike
Activities

Rome self-guided city tour by bike

Discover Rome effortlessly on a bike. Glide past iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Experience the Eternal City's magic today!

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Best of Rome guided city tour by electric bike
Activities

Best of Rome guided city tour by electric bike

Discover Rome's iconic landmarks on an exhilarating 3-hour e-bike tour. Uncover ancient wonders and modern energy. Reserve your adventure today!

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Rome at night guided city tour by bike
Activities

Rome at night guided city tour by bike

Embark on an evening bike tour through Rome's Trastevere, exploring medieval quarters and tasting local wine. End at Saint Peter's Basilica.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Highlights of Rome guided city tour by bike
Activities

Highlights of Rome guided city tour by bike

Discover Rome's iconic landmarks on an exhilarating 3-hour bike tour. Uncover ancient wonders and modern energy. Reserve your adventure today!

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Ticket to Ara Pacis, Castel Sant'Angelo and Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
Attractions & guided tours

Ticket to Ara Pacis, Castel Sant'Angelo and Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour

Explore Rome's iconic landmarks with an all-in-one ticket. Visit the Ara Pacis Museum, Castel Sant'Angelo, and take a Hop-On Hop-Off Boat tour.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Rome Night Tour by Minivan with Pizza and Gelato
Attractions & guided tours

Rome Night Tour by Minivan with Pizza and Gelato

Experience the magic of Rome on a 4-hour night tour. Enjoy pizza and gelato, visit illuminated monuments, and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Castel Sant'Angelo Entrance Ticket
Attractions & guided tours

Castel Sant'Angelo Entrance Ticket

Visit the National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo at your own pace. Find out about the building's extremely varied use throughout its complex history.

free cancellation
Instant Confirmation