Located in the heart of the Monti district, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and a true masterpiece of religious architecture. The church's most notable feature is its golden ceiling, crafted in the 5th century, which glistens with intricate designs and biblical imagery. The basilica is home to numerous golden mosaics, which date from different periods, portraying scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. Its impressive size, coupled with the ornate artwork and sacred atmosphere, offers visitors a rich experience. With 30 minutes to explore, visitors can take in the awe-inspiring golden mosaics, the breathtaking ceiling, and the powerful history encapsulated within its walls.
St. Mary Major and Early Christian Basilicas of Rome Private Tour
Private
On raphaeltours.com we mainly offer private experiences. This means that the tour is not shared with other guests and can always be tailored to your needs upon request.
Group photos taken during our tours are property of Raphael Tours and Events. Unauthorized usage outside of this website is strictly prohibited.
St. Mary Major and Early Christian Basilicas of Rome Private Tour
Private
On raphaeltours.com we mainly offer private experiences. This means that the tour is not shared with other guests and can always be tailored to your needs upon request.
Starting at
Book now85 €100 $74 £137 CA$149 A$per person
Tour Description
Private guided tour of St. Mary Major and Rome’s early Christian basilicas, exploring golden mosaics, sacred art, and the origins of Christian worship in the Eternal City with expert guide and faith art
Key Information
- Experience Private, Walking
- Guided by Licensed national tour guide
- Duration 2 to 24 hours
- Starting times (Customizable) Morning, Afternoon
- Languages English, Italian, Spanish, French, German
- Pickup available Upon request
Highlights
- Admire 5th-century mosaics in St. Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four major basilicas.
- Discover the oldest image of Christ in Western art at St. Pudenziana.
- Marvel at golden Byzantine mosaics in the Chapel of St. Zeno at St. Prassede.
- Explore three historic basilicas that showcase the origins of Christian art in Rome.
- Enjoy a private, guided experience with in-depth stories of faith, art, and symbolism.
Itinerary
- 1 1
Optional Pickup in Rome
Meet your private guide at your hotel or, upon request, at the airport, train station, or cruise port. Transfer to the starting point of the tour.
- 2 2
Basilica di Santa Prassede
The Basilica di Santa Prassede, a stunning example of early Christian art, is renowned for its remarkable Byzantine mosaics, which cover the apse and depict intricate biblical scenes. These golden mosaics, dating back to the 9th century, create an ethereal atmosphere, transporting visitors to a time when religion and art were closely intertwined. The church, built on the site of St. Prassede's tomb, offers a peaceful sanctuary, showcasing the skillful craftsmanship of the era. Visitors will have 20 minutes to explore its historical mosaics and the serene ambiance that surrounds them.
- 3 3
Basilica of Santa Pudenziana
The Basilica of Santa Pudenziana is one of the oldest churches in Rome, with origins dating back to the 5th century. Dedicated to St. Pudenziana, the sister of St. Prassede, and the daughter of the Roman senator Pudente, this church holds deep historical and religious significance. It is a key site for the Filipino community as the national church of the Filipinos. The basilica features a beautiful and rare early Christian mosaic in the apse, depicting Christ in Majesty, and serves as a testament to Rome's rich early Christian history. The church’s historical layers and its connection to early Roman Christianity make it an essential stop, with 20 minutes to absorb its artistic and religious heritage.
- 4 4
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
- 5 5
Optional Extensions & End of Tour
Upon request, extend the tour to St. John Lateran or other historic churches. The tour concludes with drop-off at your preferred location in Rome.
Tour Gallery
A collection of photos showcasing the tour experience and destinations
Group photos taken during our tours are property of Raphael Tours and Events. Unauthorized usage outside of this website is strictly prohibited.
Full Description
Explore the spiritual heart of early Christian Rome on this private guided tour of St. Mary Major, Santa Prassede, and Santa Pudenziana, three extraordinary basilicas that preserve some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful sacred art. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover how these churches reflect the birth and evolution of Christian worship, theology, and architecture.
At St. Mary Major, one of Rome’s four papal basilicas, admire the magnificent Marian mosaics and learn about the church’s deep connection to devotion, liturgy, and history. Continue to Santa Prassede, renowned for its dazzling Byzantine mosaics and intimate chapels, and then to Santa Pudenziana, home to one of the earliest surviving Christian mosaics in Rome.
The itinerary is flexible and can be extended to include St. John Lateran or other significant churches upon request, allowing for a deeper exploration of sacred Rome. A kid-friendly version with engaging explanations is available, and the tour can be adapted for wheelchair users with advance notice. Optional pickup from hotels, airports, train stations, and cruise ports ensures a comfortable and personalized experience from start to finish.
What is included
Included
- Expert Local Guide
- Entrance Fees and Tickets
Not included
- Meals and Drinks
- Gratuities
Recommendations
Tips and Tricks
- Wear modest clothing suitable for church visits (covered shoulders and knees)
- Wear modest clothing suitable for church visits (covered shoulders and knees)
- Families may request a kid-friendly version with simplified explanations and interactive storytelling
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour includes short walks between churches
- Consider extending the tour to St. John Lateran or additional churches for a deeper understanding of early Christian Rome
Reviews
Rating: 5 / 5
Based on 1 reviews
- Anneliese T. —United Kingdom
We absolutely loved this tour — such a brilliant way to see some of Rome’s earliest and most stunning churches! we fell in love with the mosaics, art and history everywhere, our guide brought everything to life with cracking stories and little details we’d never have picked up on ourselves.Highly recommend it if you’re into history, art or just want something a bit meaningful on your trip!
- Paul M. —United States
The two smaller churches we visited were much quieter but still stunning! We definitely haven’t seen anything like this anywhere else… the mosaics were unbelievable, and our guide explained everything so well
Book St. Mary Major and Early Christian Basilicas of Rome Private Tour
St. Mary Major and Early Christian Basilicas of Rome Private Tour
Private
On raphaeltours.com we mainly offer private experiences. This means that the tour is not shared with other guests and can always be tailored to your needs upon request.
Starting at
85 €
100 $
74 £
137 CA$
149 A$
per person Your tour guides in Rome
Bruno
Tour Guide in: English, Italian
Bruno is a walking history book with a spark—his deep knowledge and lively stories make the past come alive in a fun, unforgettable way!
Qualifications
- University Degree in Management of Cultural Heritage
Donato
Tour Guide in: Italian, English
Donato is an archaeologist at heart and a natural storyteller—he makes ancient sites fascinating for both adults and kids, mixing knowledge with humour.
Qualifications
- Phd in Archeology
Francesco
Tour Guide in: English, Italian
Francesco is a warm and engaging guide who mixes sharp historical insights with great storytelling, making every walk through the city lively and memorable.
Tommaso
Tour Guide in: English, Italian
Tommaso is an archaeologist with a gift for storytelling—he brings history to life in a way that captivates adults and sparks imagination in kids.
Qualifications
- Phd in Archeology
Claudia
Tour Guide in: English, Italian
Claudia is a storytelling wizard—mixing history, humor, and hidden gems into every step, making each tour feel like an adventure with a friend!
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