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Rome
Basilica: Early Access Tour & Undergrounds Adventure
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Overview
Early Bird: Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore & Undergrounds offers a special early morning visit to one of Rome's most important churches, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. This is Pope Francis's favorite church in Rome. This exclusive tour lets you see the basilica before it opens to the general public, offering a peaceful and intimate experience.
Visitors will explore hidden and iconic spots within the basilica, such as the Loggia of Blessings, the Bernini staircase, and the Hall of the Popes. They can also view the basilica's museum collections. A highlight of the tour is descending into the underground archaeological area. Here, centuries of Christian and medieval history are buried, giving a rare glimpse into Rome's past. See the beautiful 5th-century mosaics, learn the legend of the August Snowfall, and discover the hidden symbolism within the Basilica.
The tour includes audio headsets, a professional guide, early entry at 7:25 AM (exclusive to Tourismotion), a ticket to the Archaeological Area (undergrounds), on-site check-in assistance with Tourismotion staff, and a ticket to the Museum Areas (Loggia of Blessings, Bernini staircase, and museum). Tips and transfers are not included. This is a walking tour. 
Highlights
Exclusive Early Access: Enter the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore before it opens to the public.
Explore Hidden Areas: Discover the Loggia of Blessings, Bernini staircase, and undergrounds.
Expert Guided Tour: Learn from a professional, licensed guide.
Uncover Ancient History: See the underground archaeological area with centuries of history.
Pope Francis's Favorite Church: Explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which is the most beloved church of Pope Francis.
The Legend of the August Snowfall: Listen to the stories of the August Snowfall.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors highly recommend this early morning tour for its exclusive access, knowledgeable guides, and unique historical insights.
Customers loved seeing the Basilica before the crowds arrived.
The guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the Basilica.
Many enjoyed the underground archaeological area and the history it revealed.
Visitors appreciated the early access and quiet atmosphere.
Some visitors found the meeting point a bit difficult to locate.
A few felt the tour was too short.
The Journey
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (Early Access)
Experience the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in an unparalleled setting – before the crowds arrive. This exclusive early access, available only through Tourismotion, allows you to immerse yourself in the basilica's peaceful atmosphere, capturing its beauty in the soft morning light. Discover the legend of the miraculous August snowfall that led to its founding and understand why this basilica held a special place in the heart of Pope Francis, who chose it as his final resting place.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (Morning Serenity)
Savor the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in its most tranquil state. As dawn breaks, the Basilica transforms into a sanctuary of peace, offering a respite from the bustling city. Capture breathtaking photographs bathed in the gentle morning light and connect with the spiritual essence of this sacred space, a welcome escape for reflection and admiration.
The Legend of the August Snowfall
Uncover the captivating legend behind the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – the miraculous August snowfall of 358 AD. This divine event, said to have occurred during the papacy of Liberius, dictated the basilica's layout. Explore the basilica and let this extraordinary tale spark your imagination, connecting you to the historical and spiritual roots of this revered site.
Pope Francis's Connection to the Basilica
Delve into the profound connection between Pope Francis and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Learn about his deep devotion to this sacred space, a sanctuary he frequently visited during his papacy and ultimately chose as his burial site. Reflect on the significance of his decision, which underscores the basilica's enduring spiritual importance and its place in modern papal history.
5th-Century Mosaics and Hidden Symbolism
Marvel at the breathtaking 5th-century mosaics that adorn the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. These masterpieces of early Christian art tell biblical stories and conceal symbolic details within their intricate designs. Uncover the hidden meanings woven into the chapel ceilings, revealing a rich tapestry of faith, history, and artistic brilliance.
Hidden Areas of the Basilica
Venture beyond the Basilica's main halls to discover its hidden treasures. Explore the Loggia of Blessings, a balcony used for papal pronouncements; the Hall of the Popes, a historical gallery of papal portraits; and the Basilica Museum, which houses sacred artifacts. These lesser-known areas offer a deeper understanding of the basilica's history, art and papal legacy, creating a comprehensive experience for curious visitors.
Underground Archaeological Area
Descend into the Basilica's underground archaeological area to unearth its ancient foundations. Explore early Christian remains and medieval chapels that reveal the Basilica's layered history. Witness the evolution of this sacred site from its earliest beginnings to its current grandeur, bridging centuries of faith and architecture.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes audio headsets, a guided tour by a licensed professional, early entry at 7:25 AM, a ticket to the Archaeological Area (undergrounds), on-site check-in assistance, and a ticket to the Museum Areas (Loggia of Blessings, Bernini staircase, and museum). Tips and transfers are not included. Please meet the Tourismotion staff, easily recognizable by their branded T-shirts, at the designated meeting point. This walking tour allows you to explore key areas within the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.
Hot Tip
Visitors suggest arriving at the meeting point a little early to ensure a smooth check-in process.
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