Private Jubilee Tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Visit Rome's oldest Marian church and its relics with a personal guide during this historic event
As one of Rome’s four papal basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore serves as a key pilgrimage site during the Jubilee, where visitors seek spiritual renewal and pass through its Holy Door, a symbol of grace and forgiveness. With your dedicated personal guide, explore the basilica's breathtaking mosaics, ancient relics, and rich history at your own pace. Step into a world of sacred art and architecture, uncovering the stories that shaped one of Christianity’s most significant landmarks.
- Meet your guide at the entrance to the Basilica
- Lodge of Blessings
- Bernini Staircase
- Panoramic Terraces
- Liberian Historical Museum
- End inside the Basilica
You'll greet your personal guide at the entrance to Santa Maria Maggiore, located near Termini Station, before quickly learning about how the basilica stands as a testament to faith and artistry, with roots tracing back to the 5th century. This private tour offers an intimate exploration of the basilica’s grandeur, from its shimmering mosaics to its ornate chapels. Guided by an expert, delve into the fascinating legends surrounding its founding and learn about the relics housed within its sacred walls, including the Holy Crib of Christ.
Discover highlights like the triumphal arch mosaics, the Borghese Chapel, and the Sistine Chapel (not to be confused with Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in the Vatican). Each masterpiece tells a story of devotion, artistry, and the evolution of Christian worship in Rome. Your tour will conclude inside the Basilica, allowing you to continue exploring on your own.
Private Jubilee Tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Description
Your 2-hour tour includes:
Private guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore at your own pace
Marvel at 5th-century mosaics and ornate chapels
Learn the stories behind sacred relics like the Holy Crib of Christ
Explore the basilica’s history as one of Rome’s four papal basilicas
Tailored storytelling for an intimate and enriching experience
This tour does not include access to walk through the Holy Door. If you are wishing to partake in this holy event, please visit the official Jubilee website to learn more.
The Nave and Triumphal Arch Mosaics
Begin your journey in the vast nave of Santa Maria Maggiore, a breathtaking space that exudes the grandeur of early Christian Rome. Your guide will bring to life the basilica’s stunning 5th-century mosaics, which depict intricate biblical scenes rendered in shimmering gold and vibrant colors. These masterpieces, created by artisans of unparalleled skill, reflect the devotion and artistic innovation of their time. Gaze upon the triumphal arch, where mosaics celebrate pivotal moments in Christ’s life and Mary’s role in salvation history, a testament to the enduring faith and creativity of the early Church.
The Borghese Chapel and the Holy Crib
Step into the opulent Borghese Chapel, a masterpiece of Baroque splendor commissioned by Pope Paul V. Adorned with gilded details, marble sculptures, and radiant frescoes, this chapel is a celebration of both artistic achievement and religious devotion. At its heart lies one of the basilica’s most sacred relics: fragments of the Holy Crib of Christ. As your guide recounts the history and significance of this revered artifact, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its role in Christian tradition and its connection to the basilica’s spiritual legacy.
The Sistine Chapel of Santa Maria Maggiore
Venture into the Sistine Chapel of Santa Maria Maggiore, a gem distinct from its Vatican counterpart yet equally magnificent. Built by Pope Sixtus V during the Counter-Reformation, this chapel showcases frescoes that burst with color and vitality, depicting scenes of devotion and divine triumph. Architectural details, from soaring arches to intricately carved stonework, reflect the era’s desire to inspire faith through grandeur. Your guide will explain how this chapel became a powerful symbol of papal authority and a beacon of artistic innovation during a transformative period in Church history.
The Crypt of the Nativity and Papal Tombs
Descend to the serene Crypt of the Nativity, a sacred space that weaves together artistic reverence and historical significance. Here, you’ll encounter stunning depictions of Christ’s birth alongside the tombs of influential pontiffs who shaped the Church’s legacy. This tranquil area is more than a burial site—it’s a reflection of centuries of faith, leadership, and devotion. Your guide will illuminate the stories of the saints and popes honored here, offering a profound connection to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Santa Maria Maggiore.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please bring your voucher and a valid ID.
What to bring?
Please bring your voucher and a valid ID.
Is photography allowed inside the basilica?
Photography is permitted in most areas but restricted in some spaces. Your guide will provide guidance.
Are tickets to restricted areas included in the price?
Entry fees for the terraces and museum are included in the final ticket price.
Are the Panoramic Terraces accessible to everyone?
Access may be limited for individuals with mobility challenges due to stairs.
Is access to the Holy Door included?
Unfortunately this tour does not include acess to the Holy Door. If you'd like the right to enter, please visit the official Jubilee website to learn more.
What language is this tour offered in?
We run this tour in either English or Italian. If you're looking for another language, please reach out and we will work to accommodate you!
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