The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a majestic Marian temple and beacon of artistic civilisation, has been a commanding presence in Rome for over sixteen centuries. Perched atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of the city's four Papal Basilicas. Legend tells that its construction on the Esquiline was inspired and directed by the Virgin herself. This Basilica is a treasure trove where art and spirituality merge seamlessly, offering visitors an unparalleled experience.
You will have the opportunity to admire numerous masterpieces such as the Bernini family tomb, the Baptistery, and the Holy Door. The Basilica also holds intriguing facts about various pontiffs. For instance, Pope Francis often visited the Salus Populi Romani before and after his apostolic journeys, seeking its protection. Your guided tour will reveal the astonishing treasures hidden within this Basilica. A visit to the archaeological area uncovers the fascinating subterranean world of the West's most significant Marian shrine. This complex comprises rooms centred around a vast hall from the Imperial period.
As you journey through, you'll encounter a thermal bath adorned with mosaics and heating cavities, ancient roof tiles, decorative frescoes featuring geometric patterns, and a rare agricultural calendar fresco.
