Santa Maria Maggiore: Museum, Terraces and Underground Experience
Step inside one of Rome's most magnificent basilicas and uncover its centuries of history, faith and art.
Visual Gallery
History
Tour Highlights
- ✓ Take in spectacular panoramic views of Rome from the Basilica's rooftop terraces.
- ✓ Visit the historic Loggia delle Benedizioni and admire the stunning Miracle of the Snow mosaic.
- ✓ Descend into the Underground Archaeological Area and uncover the Basilica's ancient foundations and centuries of history.
- ✓ Enjoy an immersive self-guided experience with an included multilingual audio guide or a guided tour of the Underground Archaeological Area
Your Journey
- 1
Starting Point: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00185 Rome, Italy
Please arrive at the entrance with your mobile ticket and a valid ID.
- 2
Enter the Basilica
Discover one of the four Papal Basilicas and admire its magnificent interiors, ancient mosaics, and centuries of Christian history.
- 3
Explore the Basilica
Visit the main nave, chapels, and remarkable artistic treasures while learning about one of the oldest Marian shrines in the world.
- 4
Visit the Museum
Explore the Basilica's Museum, home to a remarkable collection of sacred art, historic liturgical treasures, manuscripts, and artifacts that reveal the rich history and artistic heritage of Santa Maria Maggiore. Use your multilingual audio guide to discover the stories behind the collection at your own pace.
- 5
Enjoy the Panoramic Terraces (if selected)
Complete your experience on the panoramic terraces and take in breathtaking views over the rooftops of Rome and the Basilica's historic surroundings.
- 6
Explore the Underground Archaeological Area (if selected)
Descend beneath the Basilica to discover its fascinating underground archaeological remains. Walk through the ancient foundations and uncover layers of history dating back centuries with an expert guide.
Available Experiences
The ways you can experience this — choose your date and option in the booking panel.
Reserved Entry to Santa Maria Maggiore Museum with Audioguide
Enjoy reserved entry to the Museum of Santa Maria Maggiore and discover its rich collection of sacred art, historic artifacts, and centuries of heritage with a multilingual audio guide.
Santa Maria Maggiore Museum & Panoramic Terraces with Audioguide
Explore the Museum's treasures and marvel at breathtaking 360° views of Rome from the panoramic terraces with a multilingual audio guide included.
Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
Join an expert guide to explore the Museum's remarkable collection before descending into the Underground Archaeological Area, where you'll uncover the hidden history of Santa Maria Maggiore beneath the Basilica.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- ✓ Admission ticket to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
- ✓ Access to the Museum
- ✓ Early Christian mosaics
- ✓ The Holy Door (during Jubilee Years)
- ✓ Interactive audio guide in multiple languages
- ✓ Self-paced visit
- ✓ Mobile ticket
- ✓ Access to the panoramic terraces (access is not permitted for children under 7 years of age) - (IF THE TERRACES OPTION IS SELECTED)
- ✓ Guided Tour of the Underground Archaeological Area (access is not permitted for children under 7 years of age) - (IF THE UNDERGROUND OPTION IS SELECTED)
Not Included
- ✕ Hotel pick-up and drop-off (available upon request for an additional fee)
- ✕ Live Guide (ONLY AVAILABLE IN THE UNDERGROUND OPTION)
- ✕ Headphones (ONLY AVAILABLE IN THE UNDERGROUND OPTION)
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I receive my tickets?
Your tickets will be sent by email and/or WhatsApp before your selected visit date. Please make sure to provide a valid email address and phone number during booking.
What time should I arrive?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your selected entry time.
How long does the visit take?
Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours exploring the Basilica. If your ticket includes the Panoramic Terraces, allow additional time for your visit.
Is the audio guide included?
Yes. Your booking includes an interactive audio guide in multiple languages, allowing you to explore the Basilica at your own pace. The audioguide is not included in the "Underground Tour" option.
What should I bring on the day of my visit?
Please bring a valid ID or passport, your mobile ticket, a fully charged smartphone, and your own earphones or headphones for the best audio guide experience.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. As an active place of worship, visitors must wear appropriate clothing covering both shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, short skirts, and short shorts are not permitted.
Is there luggage storage at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore?
No. The Basilica does not provide a luggage storage service. Large suitcases, bulky backpacks, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside. However, we offer a convenient luggage storage service at our office for an additional fee, we recommend requesting this service in advance.
Is luggage storage available nearby?
Yes. We offer a convenient luggage storage service at our office for an additional fee, allowing you to enjoy your visit without carrying large bags or bulky luggage. Availability is subject to storage capacity, so we recommend requesting this service in advance.
Are there any age restrictions for the Panoramic Terraces or Underground Tour?
Yes, children must be at least 7 years old to enter the underground archaeological areas and panoramic terraces of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Is the Underground Tour guided?
Yes. The Underground Archaeological Area can only be visited as part of a guided tour led by an expert guide, who will share the history and significance of the ancient remains beneath the Basilica.
Is access to the Panoramic Terraces included with every ticket?
No. Access to Panoramic Terraces is included only if you select the corresponding ticket option.
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A Timeless Marvel
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