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Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore & Panoramic Dome Guided Tour

4.5(23)1 h 30 minModerately active

From

$51per person

Book on Viator

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Overview

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Languages: English
Group size: Up to 15 travelers
Suitable for: Ages 7–100
Pace: Moderately active

Good for

Couples
First-time visitors
History buffs
Solo travelers

Discover one of Rome's most magnificent basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore, with an expert guide leading you through its rich history and architectural wonders, from ancient mosaics to sacred art. Climb the Dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the Eternal City, and explore the Liberian Museum, the Loggia of Benedictions, the Room of the Popes, and Bernini's Stairs. An unmissable experience for art and history lovers.

Highlights

Expert guide
Panoramic views
Exclusive access

What's included

Ticket for the Dome of the Basilica (accompanied by an authorized staff for security reasons)
Headsets (if needed)
Access to Loggia of Benedictions, Room of the Popes, Bernini’s Stairs, Historic Liberian Museum
Live guide

Not included

Hotel pick up and drop off
Gratuities

Itinerary

1
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
1h 30min
Explore a Vatican territory without being in Vatican City. Discover a church where classical antiquity, Christianity and modernity meet. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas, one of the most significant Catholic Churches in the world. As you arrive at Santa Maria Maggiore, you find yourself in front of a beautiful elaborate facade and a striking bell tower. Upon entry to the church, the expansive central nave stretches out in front of the viewer. Its ceiling was decorated with the first gold brought back to Europe from the New World. Dominating the front side of the nave is a triumphal arch covered with intricate mosaics arranged in four rows which depict scenes from Jesus’ childhood. Beneath the triumphal arch, is the high altar which is above a relic which contains five pieces of wood said to be from the manger in which Christ was laid in Bethlehem.

Before you go

Ticket & redemption

Mobile or paper ticket accepted
One ticket covers the whole booking

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not suitable for Children under 7 years
What to bring: Passport or ID card (mandatory), Comfortable shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing

Location

From$51per person

Viator

BookBook on Viator

Not allowed: Shorts, Baby strollers, Luggage or large bags, Short skirts, Sleeveless shirts, Backpacks, Umbrellas, Tripod, Animals, Weapons or sharp objects, Food and Drinks

Please note that access to the panoramic dome will last approximately 30 minutes. An authorized staff member will accompany you to the dome for security purposes. No explanations or insights will be provided during this time.

In accordance with attraction’s "mandatory" regulations, we kindly request that you provide the complete name(s), preferably as stated on your passport, for "each" participant during the booking process. Name change requests for booking are allowed up to 24 hours before the activity.

For the verification process, you must present a valid passport or identification during the activity

Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry.

Some parts might not be accessible and are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions.

Photography with a flash is not allowed inside. The staff are authorized to delete any files taken.

Restrictions & safety

Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments, Wheelchair users