Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
Rome
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
50 minutes
Expert local tour guide
Explore the archeological treasures and treasury of the Basilica of St. Mary Major on a 50-minute guided tour, learn about its rich history, mosaics, and sacred relics.
Journey beneath the basilica to uncover ancient archaeological treasures of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, the largest Marian sanctuary in the West.
Let an expert guide bring history to life, sharing little-known legends and the basilica’s deep spiritual significance.
Walk through an active excavation site, where you’ll see ancient Roman houses and remnants of the original 4th-century basilica, revealing layers of history beneath your feet.
Whether you’re drawn to history, faith, or architecture, this immersive experience is sure to keep you inspired and engaged.
Admission to the Basilica of St. Mary Major
Guided tour of Treasury Room and Archaeological Area
English or Italian speaking guide
Transfers
Customer Reviews
Discover what our customers are saying about their experiences
Loading reviews...
Enter the Basilica
Start your adventure by meeting your expert guide at the Portico entrance of the basilica, where you’ll check in and get ready for a journey through time. With your voucher in hand, you'll skip the lines and head straight into the sacred heart of one of Rome’s most significant religious sites.
Journey beneath the Basilica
Venture underground into the Basilica of St. Mary Major’s hidden archaeological area. As you walk through this fascinating space, your guide will share captivating stories and secrets from the past, all while showing you relics that date back centuries.
Explore the Treasury Room
Next, step into the Treasury Room, where the basilica’s most cherished religious relics are housed. From priceless artworks to sacred treasures, you'll get an inside look at the deep devotion to the Virgin Mary that has shaped this sanctuary for centuries.
Admire the Mosaics & High Altar
As you make your way back up, take time to admire the stunning mosaics that adorn the basilica, each telling its own story. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring High Altar, home to the revered Relic of the Holy Cradle, a relic believed to be part of the crib of the baby Jesus!
After 50 minutes of exploration, your journey through the underground treasures of St. Mary Major concludes, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of its rich history and spiritual significance.
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
Dive beneath the surface of Rome’s spiritual heart as you uncover ancient secrets hidden beneath the Basilica of St. Mary Major. This guided tour invites visitors to explore an underground labyrinth that tells a story spanning centuries, crafted for explorers of history, devotees of faith, and seekers of architectural marvels. Here, beneath the bustling streets of Rome, layers upon layers of time are revealed in the form of archaeological treasures, including remnants of ancient Roman houses and fragments from the original 4th-century basilica. As you walk through an active excavation site, your guide will weave tales of legendary significance, sharing stories that illuminate the spiritual and historical importance of this hallowed ground. With the opportunity to witness firsthand the painstaking efforts of archaeologists working tirelessly to uncover Rome’s past, this immersive experience weaves history with mystery, offering memorable encounters to forge a deeper understanding while acknowledging the ongoing journey of discovery beneath our feet.
Discovering Ancient Roman Houses Beneath the Basilica
Visit ancient Roman houses during the tour's highlight segment where layers of historical significance are unearthed. These structures, once home to Roman citizens and now buried deep under the bustling city streets, offer a glimpse into daily life in antiquity. As you wander through these excavated spaces, imagine the lives that played out within their walls centuries ago. Each brick and mosaic tile tells its own story of Roman craftsmanship and design, providing insight into the architectural marvels of ancient times. The tour's centerpiece highlights the meticulous work of archaeologists who continue to uncover hidden treasures beneath Rome’s iconic basilica.
Exploring Remnants of the Original Basilica
Experience remnants of the original 4th-century basilica as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring architectural wonders. These fragments, though weathered by time and history, still hold an aura of sacredness that echoes through the ages. The tour package enables access to these significant remains, allowing you to connect with the spiritual essence of St. Mary Major’s rich heritage. Marvel at the intricate mosaics and sturdy foundations that have survived centuries of transformation and renewal.
Tour Highlights
• Dive beneath Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore for ancient treasures spectacular
• Uncover Roman houses dating back to 1st century AD impressive
• Explore fragments of original basilica from 4th century BC comprehensive
• Listen to expert guide share legends and significance unique
• Walk through active excavation site witnessing ongoing discovery fascinating
• Craft memories that weave history with mystery, forging a deeper understanding engaging
Delve into the depths beneath one of Rome’s most revered sanctuaries for explorers of history, devotees of faith, and seekers of architectural marvels. This immersive experience weaves ancient secrets with modern discovery, offering memorable encounters to forge a deeper connection while acknowledging the ongoing journey of uncovering Rome's past.
By proceeding with any booking via Staybook, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to all the .
Nearby Activities
Explore nearby activities in Rome.