St. Mary’s Basilica: Pope Francis Tomb, Dome & Underground

Facade of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Main nave of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

St. Mary’s Basilica: Pope Francis Tomb, Dome & Underground

External stairs of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Duration2h - 3h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 500 travelers

Overview

The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has dominated Rome for sixteen centuries: a major Marian temple and cradle of artistic civilization. Located atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome.

According to tradition, the Virgin inspired the construction of her home on the Esquiline. Its many treasures make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in perfect harmony, offering visitors unique emotions.

Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and other masterpieces.

Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus Populi Romani, which he visits before departure and upon return.
During your guided tour, discover the astonishing treasures of the Basilica. The archaeological area reveals the fascinating underground world of the most important Marian shrine in the West, with rooms arranged around a vast Imperial-era hall.

What's included

Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
Guided tour of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino

Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major

What to expect

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
2h · Admission ticket included

The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has stood over Rome for sixteen centuries. Located atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the city’s four Papal Basilicas and a major Marian shrine.

According to tradition, the Virgin Mary inspired its construction. Rich in treasures, the basilica unites art and spirituality, offering visitors unforgettable emotions.

Admire masterpieces such as the Bernini family tomb, the Baptistery, and the Holy Door. Pope Francis entrusts his apostolic journeys to the Salus Populi Romani icon, visiting it before and after each trip.

A guided tour includes the archaeological area beneath the basilica, revealing the underground world of this historic sanctuary: rooms surrounding a vast hall from the Imperial period.

Along the way, you’ll find mosaics, heating cavities, roof tiles, geometric frescoes, and a unique fresco of an ancient agricultural calendar.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This voucher is not your ticket. Please exchange it at the meeting point, located at the fountain in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. You will find our Touristation staff, wearing a red T-shirt and bag, and holding an orange umbrella and/or a Touristation sign.

End point

This voucher is not your ticket. Please exchange it at the meeting point, located at the fountain in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. You will find our Touristation staff, wearing a red T-shirt and bag, and holding an orange umbrella and/or a Touristation sign.

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For safety reasons, this activity cannot be booked for children under the age of 7.
Please note that the meeting point is located right in front of the Basilica entrance, near the fountain.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (1)