Explore at your pace
Audio guide
Explore Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, a major papal basilica, at your own pace, choosing a time that works for you.
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Enjoy timed entry to the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a sacred Marian shrine and one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas.
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Marvel at 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse, and visit the Holy Cradle relic, believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was born.
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Enhance your visit with an audio guide in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or German, offering deep insights into the basilica’s art, history, and hidden gems.
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For an even more breathtaking experience, upgrade to include dome access for stunning panoramic views of Rome and a closer look at the basilica’s architectural splendor.
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Entry to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
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Audio guide in Italian, English, Spanish, French, and German (as per option selected)
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Dome access (as per option selected)
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- Entry to Polo Museale
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
How do we collect reviews?
Guests from United States, Spain, United Kingdom and over 14 countries have loved this experienceMrs
Apr, 2025Verified booking
Breathtaking beauty and architecture gives 5 stars, no wonder the pope wished to be laid to rest here. But we did not have to show our booking so a little confused why charged for tickets and had no audio guide offered so a 1 star on that. It seemed to be free entry for all at this sad time?
Martin
Jun, 2025Verified booking
The quiet and dignity of the place. I can really see why pope Francis wished to rest here, it's so peaceful and full of beauty
Carmelo
May, 2025Verified booking
The visit was good but I would have preferred that the guide did not have to speak 3 languages to make himself understood. I also would have liked a complete tour of the basilica and not just the upper part.
Erin
Apr, 2025Verified booking
Our guide was excellent. He spoke English well and we could understand him easily. He gave good eye contact and watched out for all of the pilgrims.
Cristiano
Jun, 2025Verified booking
Visit the tomb of Pope Francis and attend Holy Mass with communion
The History of Santa Maria Maggiore
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major basilicas.
The Basilica’s history dates back to the 5th century when Pope Liberius dreamed of a church in honor of the Virgin Mary. Begin by appreciating the 5th-century mosaics that decorate the nave and apse, showing biblical scenes. Go on to explore the peaceful chapels. The High Altar and the Holy Cradle relic—believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was laid—are must-sees.
Rome’s tallest Campanile
The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is also home to Rome’s tallest campanile, which stands proudly above the city skyline. While exploring, the audio guide will help bring the Basilica’s history to life, improving your visit with fascinating facts and stories about the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore’s religious significance.
What to bring
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There is a strict dress code. Wear clothes that cover your knees, shoulders, and back.
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Comfortable shoes are recommended as you may need to walk on uneven surfaces.
What's not allowed
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Large bags, sharp objects, or anything that may pose a security risk are not permitted.
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No hats are allowed inside the Basilica except for religious or health reasons.
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Pets and small animals are not permitted inside the venue.
Accessibility
- The Basilica is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to a flight of stairs at the entrance.
Additional information
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Photography without flash is allowed.
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Show your voucher at the entrance to get your audio guide. Return the audio guide to the Reception Desk within 60 minutes of your booked time.
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The ticket grants timed entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. Access to the Liberian Museum Center (Blessings Loggia, Hall of the Popes, Bernini's Staircase, and the Liberian Museum) requires a separate ticket.
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Entry is via a reserved line, but this does not include access through the Holy Door.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
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Please arrive at the redemption point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.
Ticket redemption point
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Show your ticket at the reception desk inside Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
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Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy.
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