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Highlights
- Explore the ancient underground chambers of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where mosaics, frescoes, and archaeological treasures have been preserved for centuries.
- Gain access to exclusive subterranean areas like the Treasure Room, featuring historic thermal spaces, unique mosaics, and intricate fresco cycles through a guided tour.
- Explore original tilework, geometric frescoes, and early architectural elements with an English or Italian-speaking guide who provides detailed explanations of these features.
- Uncover hidden Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque layers beneath the iconic Papal Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome during this exclusive guided tour.
Your Experience
Welcome to a 50-minute exploration beneath Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore. Discover hidden archaeological treasures and rare frescoes with your guide's expert insights.
Getting Started
Your journey begins at the entrance of Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where you'll meet your guide after a brief ticket check-in. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure timely entry. Please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.
The underground guided tour of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore unveils the lesser-known archaeological spaces beneath one of Rome’s most significant basilicas, showcasing Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque influences. The site is celebrated for its towering campanile and intricately designed coffered ceiling.
Features
- Treasure room and archaeological chambers: Explore ancient artifacts, preserved tilework, geometric frescoes, and centuries-old architectural remains hidden beneath the basilica.
- Rare underground artworks: Encounter unique highlights such as a frescoed agricultural calendar and intricate mosaic floors from historic thermal healing rooms.
- Subterranean thermal spaces: Explore chambers with original heating systems, detailed mosaics, and well-preserved fresco cycles that reveal the site’s layered history.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Access to the Papal Basilica, Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
- Guided exploration of the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Underground Archaeological Area
- Tour with an English or Italian-speaking guide, based on your choice
- Access through the Holy Door
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
These tickets can't be rescheduled or cancelled.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.