Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore Ticket with Audio Guide
Description
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore while in Rome. With this entry ticket, you'll unlock the secrets housed within the basilica, complemented by an audio guide in English, and pay your respects at the site of Pope Francis' burial.
Reasons to Explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Step into the grandeur of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore! Nestled on the storied Esquiline Hill, this basilica stands as the largest Marian shrine in the city and one of the four papal basilicas. It is also notable as the final resting place of Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025.
Crossing its threshold, you will be captivated by the diverse architectural influences, which range from Paleochristian to Baroque styles. The extensive renovation during the 18th century has endowed it with an exterior and certain decorations from that era, while medieval features such as the bell tower, select mosaics, and marble flooring remain preserved.
Your audio guide will lead you through the basilica's myriad treasures, including the tomb of the Bernini Family, frescoes by Guido Reni, sculptures by Arnolfo di Cambio, and the esteemed Holy Door, showcasing the evolution of Christian art throughout Rome.
Unique Experiences: Climbing the Dome & Exploring the Underground
To enhance your visit, you can opt during booking for access to a dome climb and the underground sections of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
From the dome, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas from the basilica’s highest elevation, offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the city. The underground spaces reveal a captivating archaeological site that discloses the remnants of an ancient Roman villa, along with early Christian artifacts including mosaics, frescoes, thermal baths, and the impressive Treasure Room.
If the underground chambers are not of interest to you, but you still wish to ascend to the summit of Santa Maria Maggiore, a ticket option is available that grants access solely to the dome.
What's included
- Admission to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
- Audio guide in English
- Climb up to the dome (depending on selected option)
- Access to the underground chambers (depending on selected option)
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
No means of visual accessibility.
Important information
On the day of the activity, show your ticket at the ticket office of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy). There, you'll be given an audio guide so that you can visit the Basilica on your own. We recommend arriving 10 to 15 minutes in advance.
Important Info
This voucher is not your official entrance ticket. You must exchange it at the meeting point, located at the fountain in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
There, you'll find a Touristation representative, dressed in a red T-shirt and bag, with an orange umbrella and/or a sign with the Touristation written on it.
Additional Info
- Bottles, glasses, alcoholic beverages, aerosols, oversized luggage or bags and pets are prohibited.
- You will need to leave identification as a guarantee for the audio guide.
- Dress code required: shoulders and knees must be covered.
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