As twilight falls over the Eternal City, and the crowds depart for the day, you’ll meet your top rated LivTours guide outside the majestic Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for your semi-private after hours tour
One of the most ancient churches in Rome, with parts of it dating back to the 5th century, Santa Maria Maggiore is famous for its exquisite golden mosaics. As a papal church it also has a Holy Jubilee Door. As well, the precious relics of the Manger are held in a crystal reliquary beneath the altar, leading some to call it ‘the Bethlehem of the West’.
In your small group with no more than six people, you’ll enter the now-empty basilica and start your tour with special access to parts of the church not usually visited. You’ll climb a grand staircase to visit the stunning Loggia. This adorns the original façade of the Basilica and is decorated with early 14th century mosaics. They depict the 4th-century miracle of Saint Mary of the Snows – an event still celebrated every 4th of August with masses of white rose petals falling on the congregation from the ceiling.
Walk through the Hall of the Popes with its impressive portraits, antique priestly vestments, and historic documents, up to the rooftop terraces for spectacular 360-degree views over the Roman skyline. You will also have an impressive view of the medieval bell tower, the tallest in Rome.
Then you’ll walk down the self supporting, shell-shaped staircase by Bernini made of white travertine, for a fascinating tour of the Nave. Closed to the public at this hour, the lingering smell of frankincense makes for a truly mysterious and sacred atmosphere. You will see the tombs of Napoleon’s sister Paulina Borghese and Bernini himself, as well as several popes. Admire the gilt ceiling made of gold from Columbus’s adventure to the Americas and the breathtaking mosaics on the Apse depicting Mary and Jesus.
