Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide

The History of Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major basilicas.

The Basilica’s history dates back to the 5th century when Pope Liberius dreamed of a church in honor of the Virgin Mary. Begin by appreciating the 5th-century mosaics that decorate the nave and apse, showing biblical scenes. Go on to explore the peaceful chapels. The High Altar and the Holy Cradle relic—believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was laid—are must-sees.

Rome’s tallest Campanile

The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is also home to Rome’s tallest campanile, which stands proudly above the city skyline. While exploring, the audio guide will help bring the Basilica’s history to life, improving your visit with fascinating facts and stories about the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore’s religious significance.

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide

Discover the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major on this guided tour that includes timed entry and an audio guide in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or German. This tour covers one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, a sacred Marian shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary since 431 AD when Pope Sixtus III ordered its construction following the Council of Ephesus. The basilica is renowned for its stunning 5th-century mosaics that adorn the nave and apse, as well as the Holy Cradle relic, believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was born. Guests will spend approximately two hours exploring this architectural marvel which measures 173 meters in length and has a dome height of 48 meters. The tour also includes access to the basilica’s dome for panoramic views of Rome, enhancing the experience with unique insights into the history and artistry that set it apart from other religious sites in the city. With its rich historical significance and architectural grandeur, this tour is perfect for travelers interested in sightseeing and landmarks.

Visit Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Your tour stops at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major where guests can marvel at 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse. This basilica, one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, was built in the early 5th century by Pope Sixtus III following the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD, making it a sacred Marian shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It measures approximately 173 meters in length and has a dome height of 48 meters. Visitors will see specific features such as the Santa Maria Maggiore mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Holy Cradle relic believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was born. The basilica’s architecture includes elements like its Baroque facade, which dates back to the 17th century, and the extensive use of marble throughout the interior. Guests spend about two hours exploring this landmark, making it unique compared to other churches in Rome due to its historical significance and artistic treasures.

Tour Highlights

• Enjoy timed entry at Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
• Audio guide available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, German
• Marvel at 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse
• Visit Holy Cradle relic believed to be part of Jesus' manger
• Upgrade for dome access with panoramic views of Rome
• Explore Baroque facade dating back to the 17th century
• Discover extensive use of marble throughout the interior
• Spend approximately two hours exploring this sacred Marian shrine

Perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and religious pilgrims, this guided tour provides an in-depth exploration through audio guides available in multiple languages. The format allows you to enjoy timed entry at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, marvel at 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse, and visit the Holy Cradle relic believed to be part of Jesus' manger, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Rome's religious landmarks.