Rome: Santa Sabina & Santa Prisca on the Aventine Hill Tour

Discover the captivating history of Rome’s Aventine Hill on this 1.5-hour guided tour. Explore the architectural wonders of Santa Prisca and Santa Sabina, two of the city’s most significant early Christian sites. Explore the tranquil Giardino degli Aranci and marvel at the iconic Aventine Keyhole, offering unparalleled views of St. Peter’s Basilica. With a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and informative experience of Rome’s rich heritage. Uncover the stories that have shaped this enchanting corner of the Eternal City.

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Key Points

The 1.5-hour tour takes visitors to the 4th-century Santa Prisca and Santa Sabina churches on Rome’s Aventine Hill, highlighting their early Christian significance and architectural features.
The tour includes guided explorations of the historical sites, as well as opportunities to admire panoramic views from the Giardino degli Aranci and Aventine Keyhole.
The tour is available in multiple languages and accommodates wheelchair users, with a small staircase at Santa Prisca.
Reservation and booking details, such as the meeting point, cancellation policy, and tour signage, are provided to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Important considerations, such as the dress code and language reservation, are highlighted to help visitors plan and prepare for the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Rome: Santa Sabina & Santa Prisca on the Aventine Hill Tour offers visitors an immersive 1.5-hour journey through the historic Aventine Hill.

Priced from $53.52 per person, the tour provides a small-group experience, with a maximum of 10 participants.

Guided in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, and French, the tour is also wheelchair-accessible, though visitors should note a small staircase at Santa Prisca.

Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Booking Details

Reserving a spot on the Rome: Santa Sabina & Santa Prisca on the Aventine Hill Tour is easy and convenient. No upfront payment is required – simply reserve your spot and pay later. Plus, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

| Booking Details | |

| ————— | ————– |

| Reservation | Reserve now & pay later |

| Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |

| Meeting Point | Monument to Giuseppe Mazzini, Piazza Ugo La Malta 00153 Rome; staff will hold a yellow Touriks sign |

With flexible booking and cancellation policies, you can secure your spot on this captivating Aventine Hill tour without hassle.

Stops Along the Way

As visitors embark on the Rome: Santa Sabina & Santa Prisca on the Aventine Hill Tour, they’ll first stop at the captivating Santa Prisca, where a guided tour (lasting approximately 30 minutes) delves into the site’s 4th-century roots and its significance in the early Christian era.

Next, the tour moves to the nearby Santa Sabina, where a 40-minute guided exploration uncovers the stunning wooden doors with biblical carvings and the stories of early Christian architecture.

The tour culminates with photo stops at the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) and the iconic Aventine Keyhole, offering panoramic views of Rome.

Santa Prisca: a Glimpse Into Early Christianity

Though steeped in ancient Roman history, the Santa Prisca church stands as a testament to the city’s transition from paganism to early Christianity. This 4th-century structure holds great significance, with its crypt housing the relics of St. Prisca, a prominent early Christian martyr. Visitors can explore the church’s interior, admiring its well-preserved Byzantine-style architecture and learning about the veneration of saints during the formative years of Christianity in Rome. The church’s historical importance is further highlighted by its connection to the nearby Mithraeum, a testament to the diverse religious landscape of ancient Rome.

| Key Facts | |

| — | — |

| Construction | 4th century |

| Significance | Relic of St. Prisca, early Christian martyr |

| Architecture | Byzantine-style |

| Nearby Site | Mithraeum, highlighting religious diversity |

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Santa Sabina: Architectural Marvels and Legends

Just a short distance from Santa Prisca, the Santa Sabina church stands as a remarkable example of early Christian architecture in Rome.

Visitors are captivated by its stunning wooden doors, adorned with intricate biblical carvings. The church’s interior showcases the simple yet elegant design that typified early Christian structures.

Legends surround the church, including the tale of a miraculous orange tree that once grew on the grounds.

Today, the Aventine Keyhole offers visitors a unique vantage point to photograph St. Peter’s Basilica while exploring the church’s rich history and architectural significance.

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Giardino Degli Aranci: a Panoramic Delight

After exploring the architectural marvels of Santa Sabina, the tour heads to the Giardino degli Aranci, a panoramic delight on the Aventine Hill.

This tranquil garden offers stunning views of Rome’s skyline, including a glimpse of St. Peter’s Basilica through the famous Aventine Keyhole.

Visitors can stroll along the garden’s winding paths, surrounded by the fragrance of orange trees and the peaceful ambiance.

It’s an ideal spot for a brief respite and photo opportunity, providing a unique perspective of the Eternal City.

The 10-minute stop allows guests to fully appreciate the beauty of this secluded oasis.

Aventine Keyhole: A Unique Viewpoint

The final stop on this Aventine Hill tour is the renowned Aventine Keyhole, a unique viewpoint that offers visitors a captivating glimpse of St. Peter’s Basilica. This small, unassuming keyhole provides a perfectly framed view of the iconic Catholic church, creating an optical illusion that appears to stretch endlessly.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta |

| Viewing Angle | Perfectly frames St. Peter’s Dome |

| History | Originally part of the Knights of Malta headquarters |

| Popularity | A must-see attraction for visitors to Rome |

Spending just a few minutes at the Aventine Keyhole is a memorable way to conclude this tour, leaving you with a lasting impression of Rome’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Important Considerations

When planning this Aventine Hill tour, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

First, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but there’s a small staircase at the Santa Prisca site. Visitors should dress modestly, covering their knees and shoulders, as the sites are sacred.

Plus, while the tour is offered in multiple languages, it’s best to reserve well in advance to secure your preferred language.

Lastly, the meeting point is at the Monument to Giuseppe Mazzini, where a Touriks staff member will be holding a yellow sign to greet you.

Following these tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Aventine Hill experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour requires modest clothing. Visitors must cover their knees and shoulders, and cannot wear shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing attire.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be mindful of not disturbing the religious atmosphere, especially inside the churches. Certain areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized for specific interests. Guests can request to focus on certain historical aspects or increase time at certain sites. The tour company is flexible in accommodating such requests.

Are Any Food or Beverages Included in the Tour Price?

No, the tour price doesn’t include food or drinks. Participants are responsible for their own meals and refreshments during the 1.5-hour tour. The only inclusions are the live guide, headsets, and transportation between stops.

How Long Is the Walking Distance During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or drinks. The total walking distance during the tour is around 1.5 hours, with stops at Santa Prisca, Santa Sabina, Giardino degli Aranci, and the Aventine Keyhole.

The Sum Up

The Rome: Santa Sabina & Santa Prisca on the Aventine Hill Tour offers a captivating journey through early Christian history. Explore remarkable 4th-century churches, enjoy stunning vistas, and discover the iconic Aventine Keyhole. With a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and informative experience, immersing visitors in the rich heritage of Rome’s Aventine Hill.