Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica: Dome & Underground Tour
0
Overview
The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Dome and Underground Guided Tour invites visitors to explore a cornerstone of Rome, the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which has stood for sixteen centuries. Perched atop Esquiline Hill, this basilica is one of Rome's four major Papal Basilicas and a significant Marian temple.
Visitors can expect to see the Basilica, where art meets spirituality. The tour includes the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, and the Holy Door. It is where Pope Francis seeks protection for his journeys.
The tour allows visitors to discover the underground world of the Basilica, including rooms surrounding an Imperial-era hall. This experience includes welcome assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino. It excludes transportation to and from the Basilica.



Highlights
Explore a Historic Basilica: Walk through the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a significant site for over 1600 years.
See Artistic Treasures: Admire masterpieces like the Bernini family tomb and the Holy Door.
Discover the Underground: Explore the Basilica's underground area with its ancient rooms.
Guided Tour: Learn about the Basilica's history and importance from an expert guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors generally have a positive experience, appreciating the historical insights and beauty of the Basilica, though some have noted issues with the meeting point and wait times.

Visitors enjoyed learning the history of the Basilica.
Many tourists enjoyed the beautiful views and would recommend to friends.
Visitors enjoyed the underground tour and found the tour guides helpful.
Customers say the tour is well-organized and informative.
Some found the meeting point unclear.
Some visitors say the lines to enter the Basilica can be long.
The Journey
Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Ascend the Esquiline Hill to discover the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a beacon of faith and art that has graced Rome for over sixteen centuries. Legend says the Virgin Mary herself inspired its creation. Step inside to witness an opulent sanctuary adorned with masterpieces, including the Bernini family tomb and the Baptistery. Before each apostolic journey, Pope Francis seeks blessings at the Salus Populi Romani icon housed within, a testament to the basilica's enduring spiritual significance. Descend beneath the basilica on a guided tour to explore an ancient Roman world, revealing rooms and mosaics from the Imperial era, including a fascinating agricultural calendar. This is more than just a visit; it's an immersion into the heart of Roman history, art, and devotion.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes admission and entrance fees to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, which offers free entrance. It also includes a welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino. This tour does not include transportation to or from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Hot Tip
To avoid long lines and make the most of the visit, arriving early is recommended.