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Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide

Visitors at the Altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, admiring intricate mosaics and architecture.
Holy Gates detail in Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome.
Interior view of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, showcasing religious artwork.
Pope Pius IX sculpture near Holy Manger in Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome.

Explore Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, a major papal basilica, at your own pace, choosing a time that works for you.

Highlights

  • Wander through the Basilica at your own pace, using the detailed audio guide to uncover its history and hidden stories.

  • An informative audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, will provide valuable insights into the Basilica's legends.

  • Visit one of Rome’s Seven Pilgrim Churches and the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. While there, see the holy cradle relic, believed to be part of Jesus’ manger.

  • Admire the Basilica's stunning 5th-century mosaics, ancient frescoes, and its Byzantine heritage.

  • Discover ancient art, papal treasures, and the Holy Cradle at Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore—a haven for pilgrims and history buffs alike.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

  • Audio guide in Italian, English, Spanish, French, and German (as per option selected)

  • Dome access (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Entry to Polo Museale

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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

  • There is a strict dress code. Wear clothes that cover your knees, shoulders, and back.

  • Comfortable shoes are recommended as you may need to walk on uneven surfaces.

What's not allowed

  • Large bags, sharp objects, or anything that may pose a security risk are not permitted.

  • No hats are allowed inside the Basilica except for religious or health reasons.

  • 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

  • Photography without flash is allowed.

  • 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.

  • In case of bad weather conditions, the visit will be cancelled

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

  • Please arrive at the redemption point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.

Ticket redemption point

  • Show your ticket at the reception desk inside Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

  • Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy.

Get directions to the redemption point

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