Rome Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore Tour

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.

Meeting Point

Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore

Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, Roma RM, Italy

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.

What's included:

• Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
• Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino

Not included:

• Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major

What to expect:

Duration: between 2 hours and 3 hours

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 42, Rome, 00185

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