Explore the rich history and sacred sites of Rome on this captivating tour. Journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the stunning Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore to the sacred Scala Sancta. Explore the ancient Catacombs, where early Christians laid their dead to rest. With expert guidance and convenient transportation, this 4-hour adventure promises to transport you back in time and uncover the remarkable stories that lie within Rome’s hallowed walls.

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Key Points

This 4-hour tour offers guided visits to the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Scala Sancta, and the Catacombs of Rome.
The tour is priced at $141.91 per person and accommodates up to 7 participants, with availability in English and Spanish.
Highlights include exploring the architectural and artistic significance of each site, with licensed guides providing historical insights.
Transportation by minivan is provided throughout the tour, and certain attire and prohibited items are required.
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Rome: Catacombs and Basilicas with Holy Stairs Tour offers an in-depth exploration of some of the city’s most significant religious and historical sites.

Explore Rome’s significant religious and historical sites with the Catacombs and Basilicas with Holy Stairs Tour.

Priced from $141.91 per person, this 4-hour tour accommodates up to 7 participants and is available in English and Spanish.

Highlights include guided visits to the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Scala Sancta, and the Catacombs of Rome.

Transportation by minivan is provided, and the tour starts at the Mecenate Palace Hotel.

Advance booking is recommended, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

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Itinerary Highlights

This tour begins with a guided visit to the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, which lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Next, visitors explore the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano for another 45-minute guided tour.

The group then stops at the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, for a 15-minute guided visit.

The tour culminates with a 1-hour guided exploration of the ancient Catacombs of Rome.

Throughout the experience, participants enjoy transportation by minivan to the various sites.

Key Attractions

Basilica of Saint Mary Major stands as the best-preserved Roman church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Nearby, the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran is considered the real Cathedral of Rome and the first Papal residence. A sacred highlight is the Holy Stairs, believed to be those climbed by Jesus Christ during his passion.

| Attraction | Key Details |

| — | — |

| Basilica of Saint Mary Major | Oldest and best-preserved Roman church dedicated to the Virgin Mary |

| Basilica of Saint John in Lateran | First Papal residence and considered the Cathedral of Rome |

| Holy Stairs | Believed to be the stairs Jesus Christ climbed during his passion |

The underground Catacombs of Rome offer a unique glimpse into ancient Christian cemeteries and the history of early Christianity.

Basilica Papale Di Santa Maria Maggiore

Considered the oldest and best-preserved Roman church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore stands as an architectural marvel in the heart of Rome.

Adorned with stunning 5th-century mosaics and ancient marble columns, the basilica boasts:

Exquisite Baroque and Renaissance artistic features
The tomb of Pope Sixtus V, who commissioned the church’s refurbishment
The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, which is said to have saved Rome from the plague

The basilica’s grandeur and religious significance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of Rome.

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Basilica Di San Giovanni in Laterano

Although often overshadowed by the more famous St. Peter’s Basilica, the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is no less impressive. Considered the "mother church" of all churches in the world, it was the first papal residence and cathedral of Rome. The impressive facade, designed by Alessandro Galilei, leads to a grand interior adorned with stunning 13th-century mosaics and a unique papal throne. The basilica’s highlights include:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Altar of the Confession | Believed to contain relics of St. John the Baptist |

| Holy Stairs | Reputed to be the steps Jesus climbed during his Passion |

| Baptistery | Oldest Christian baptistery in the world |

| Cloister | Romanesque-Gothic architecture with ancient columns |

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Scala Sancta

Situated adjacent to the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano stands the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs. According to tradition, these 28 marble steps were climbed by Jesus Christ during his passion and are now a major pilgrimage site.

Visitors can:

Ascend the stairs on their knees as an act of penance, with each step representing a stage of Christ’s suffering.
View the original marble stairs, which are now covered in wood to protect them.
Observe the remarkable frescoes depicting the Passion of Christ adorning the walls along the staircase.

The Scala Sancta offers a profound spiritual experience for those seeking to connect with the events of Jesus’ life.

Catacombs of Rome

Beneath the bustling streets of Rome, an intricate network of ancient underground cemeteries known as the Catacombs of Rome awaits visitors.

Beneath the bustling streets of Rome, an intricate network of ancient underground cemeteries known as the Catacombs of Rome awaits visitors.

These vast, labyrinthine tunnels were used as burial sites by early Christians, Jews, and pagans.

Descending into the Catacombs, one is struck by the eerie stillness and the countless niches carved into the walls, once home to the remains of the deceased.

A licensed Vatican guide leads the tour, sharing insights into the history, symbolism, and significance of these sacred underground spaces that offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Rome’s past inhabitants.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a professional licensed guide, skip-the-line entry to all sites, use of headsets, and transportation by minivan.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users.

Plus, certain items aren’t allowed on the tour:

Shorts
Weapons
Large bags
Short skirts
Pets (except assistance dogs)
Sleeveless shirts

Proper attire, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants, is required.

The Sum Up

The "Rome: Catacombs and Basilicas With Holy Stairs Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Rome’s rich history and religious significance. Visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Scala Sancta, and the ancient Catacombs. Convenient transportation and expert insights make this tour a must-experience for those seeking to uncover the sacred and historical treasures of the Eternal City.

You can check availability for your dates here: