Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers

Discover holy relics upon Esquiline Hill...

Set off from the city center with your expert guide who will first lead you to the Holy Staircase. This long line of 28 marble steps are said to be the ones that Christ walked on while he was on his way to meet Pontius Pilate before his crucifixion. Then, head to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the West, with impressive sculptures and intricate interiors. Next up, the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Marvel at the 5th-century mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as an intricately decorated altar that houses the relics of the Holy Manger, believed to be from the nativity scene.

And head into a Christian underworld around Rome!

Beneath the bustling streets and iconic landmarks lies an ancient Roman secret. Carved into soft volcanic rock, the catacombs served as both burial grounds and places of worship. Cruise from Rome along the Appian Way, a vital artery of the Roman Empire, under which the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian were built. Make your way through the underground maze where you'll encounter early Christian paintings, sketches, and sacred tombs, offering a unique glimpse into Rome's religious traditions and artistry.

Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers

Embark on an immersive journey through the sacred heart of Rome, where ancient faith intertwines with breathtaking architecture to create a memorable pilgrimage for explorers of spirituality, devotees of history, and seekers of mystery. As part of this comprehensive tour, you'll delve into the sanctity of St. Mary Major, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, and the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian—each site a testament to Rome’s enduring spiritual legacy. With expert insights guiding your exploration and seamless transfers ensuring smooth transitions between stops, this experience weaves a tapestry of faith and artistry, offering unforgettable encounters that illuminate the city's hidden depths while acknowledging the reverence required in these sacred spaces.

Discovering St. Mary Major's Holy Splendor

Access St. Mary Major during the tour’s highlight segment where you’ll encounter one of Rome’s most stunning basilicas, known for its rich history and remarkable architecture. Steeped in devotion and adorned with Byzantine mosaics that tell stories of biblical events, this church stands as a beacon of faith on Esquiline Hill. Explore the breathtaking interior featuring the mosaics of Christ Pantocrator and the Madonna Enthroned, along with the ornate ceiling and intricate marble work. Visit the Sancta Sanctorum, home to the Holy Stairs believed to be climbed by Jesus before his trial by Pontius Pilate, adding a profound layer of spiritual significance to your visit.

Wandering Through Archbasilica's Architectural Grandeur

Experience the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring Rome’s oldest and most prestigious church, the pope’s official home and the mother church of Catholicism worldwide. Marvel at its grandiose architecture, including the largest nave in Christendom and towering columns that support a ceiling adorned with vibrant mosaics depicting biblical scenes. Discover the Baptistery of St. John Lateran, whose octagonal design is reminiscent of ancient Roman bathhouses, symbolizing purification and rebirth.

Descending into Catacombs' Mystical Underworld

Visit the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian included in the tour package enabling you to explore these subterranean worlds rich with history and spiritual significance. Navigate through narrow passageways illuminated by soft, flickering lights that reveal ancient frescoes depicting biblical scenes and symbols of early Christian faith. These underground burial sites served as sanctuaries for persecuted Christians during Roman times, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the tour’s spiritual journey.

Tour Highlights

• Visit St. Mary Major's Holy Stairs Christ climbed before trial
• Experience Archbasilica of St. John Lateran's grandiose nave impressive
• Access Catacombs of St. Callixtus narrow passageways ancient frescoes richly detailed
• Discover Sancta Sanctorum’s mosaics depicting biblical scenes spiritually significant
• Include round-trip transfers convenient seamless travel between sites
• Explore Holy Stairs believed to be climbed by Christ before his trial unique

Inspiring for explorers of sacred history, captivating for devotees of ancient faith, and mysterious for seekers of hidden stories, this tour weaves together spiritual significance and architectural grandeur, offering unforgettable encounters that illuminate the city’s hidden depths. Like a whispered secret from the past, these sites reveal their secrets to those who seek them out, creating moments that linger like echoes in the catacombs.