Duration
Guided tour
Explore the archeological treasures and treasury of the Basilica of St. Mary Major on a 50-minute guided tour, learn about its rich history, mosaics, and sacred relics.
4.3/5
(11)
Margaret
Vanessa
Patricia
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Skip the lines and step inside the awe-inspiring Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
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Explore a restricted archaeological site beneath the basilica, led by a Vatican-trained guide.
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Discover ancient Roman villa ruins, thermal rooms, tombs, and a rare 2nd-century agricultural calendar.
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Visit the sacred Treasury Room and marvel at dazzling 5th-century mosaics in the basilica’s nave.
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The only tour that grants access to the active underground dig site, 2,000 years of history hidden from public view.
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Access to the Basilica of St. Mary Major
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Guided tour of Underground Archaeological Area
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English or Italian speaking guide
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Transfers
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Museum and Terrace access
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 11 reviews4.3
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
72020What our guests say
Margaret
Oct 2025Verified booking5/5
Vanessa
Sep 2025Verified booking4/5
Radtke
Sep 2025Verified booking5/5
Nancy
Jul 2025Verified booking4/5
Patricia
May 2025Verified booking5/5
Step beneath one of Rome’s most important basilicas and uncover layers of history hidden from most visitors. This underground guided tour reveals the basilica’s treasures, mosaics, and archaeological wonders up close.
Getting started
Arrive at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on Esquiline Hill and present your ticket at the entrance. Pass through the brief security check before meeting your in-house guide to begin your descent.
What to expect
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore – One of Rome’s four papal basilicas, famed for its 5th-century mosaics, towering campanile, and richly decorated interiors.
Treasure Room – See relics and sacred objects preserved for centuries.
Archaeological Area – Explore ancient rooms once used for thermal healing, complete with preserved tilework and a frescoed agricultural calendar.
Art & Architecture – Spot geometric frescoes, intricate mosaics, and layers of Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque design.
Extras
Upgrade options may be available to include access to other restricted areas of the basilica or a terrace viewpoint.
What to bring
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A valid photo ID may be required to verify reduced tickets (e.g., student or child rates).
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Dress respectfully for a religious site. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
What’s not allowed
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Children under 7 are not permitted on this tour.
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Large bags, suitcases, and luggage are not allowed through the reserved access line.
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Entry via the Holy Door is not included in this experience.
Accessibility
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This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users or visitors with mobility issues.
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Not recommended for individuals with walking difficulties due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
Additional information
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Arrive at the Portico entrance at least 15 minutes before your tour starts.
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Entry is through a reserved access line; show your voucher (smartphone or printout).
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The basilica may close sections without notice due to force majeure; no refunds are provided in such cases.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
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Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Meeting point
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Meet your guide at the entrance of 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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