Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore Ticket with Audio Guide
Why Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore?
Welcome to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore! Located on Esquiline Hill, it's the largest Marian church in Rome and one of the four papal basilicas. This basilica is also the place where Pope Francis was laid to rest after passing away in April 2025.
As you pass through its doors, you'll see how the interior shows varied architectural styles, from Paleochristian to Baroque. The entire building was restored and refurbished during the 18th century, so the façade and part of the decoration are from this period. It also retains some elements of the medieval period, like the bell tower, some mosaics, and marble floors.
Thanks to the audio guide, you'll come to discover the many treasures inside the Basilica. You can admire the Bernini Family tomb, the Guido Reni frescoes, the sculptures of Arnolfo di Cambio and the Holy Door, among many other masterpieces. A perfect combination of Christian art's most important stages within Rome!
Dome & Underground
If you want an even more complete experience, during the booking process, you can choose the option that includes a climb up to one of the domes and access to the underground area of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
From the dome, you'll enjoy the impressive views from the tallest part of the basilica, where you can take in a scenic view of Rome that will leave you breathless. The underground chambers are a fascinating archaeological site revealing the foundations of an ancient Roman villa and early Christian remains with mosaics, frescoes, thermal baths, and the Treasure Room.
If you do not wish to visit the underground areas, but would like to see the highest point of Santa Maria Maggiore, you also have the option of booking a ticket to the basilica that includes access to the dome.
More Information
Duration
1 hour.
Language
The activity takes place with an audioguide in English.
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)
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
- Has a gender equality policy.
- Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis, we offer tickets at official prices, with full transparency and exclusive benefits for our users. In a few exceptional cases (less than 5%), these rates may be slightly higher than the ticket office price as they include booking fees and/or audio guides. The advantage is that your spot is guaranteed, and you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket office(although there may still be wait time at security and to access the monument).
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 1 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Touristation Corporate name: Ticketstation srl Registered Office: via dei corridori 6, Rome, Italy Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): IT13825051009 Contact information Email: operation@ticketstation.it Phone: +393496966958 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
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