Visit the best of Rome's holiest historic highlights with an expert local guide. See the famous Holy Steps and descend into the archaeological maze of the Roman Catacombs. Above ground, visit two of the city's most well-known churches, the Basilicas of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Maggiore.
Visit historic sites of monumental significance during this half-day tour of holy Rome. Marvel at intricately created architectural and artistic masterpieces and visit the Scala Santa, one of the most important locations for those who come to Rome on a spiritual pilgrimage.
Your guide will pick you up from your center-city hotel in Rome before you embark on your historic journey through some of Rome's holiest highlights. Start your day by touring two of the world's most important Basilicas, the Basilica of Saint John Lateran and the Basilica of Saint Mary Maggiore. Then, venture into the depths of Rome with a tour of the ancient Catacombs. An expert local guide and a one-of-a-kind experience are included in the price!
First, head to the Basilica of Saint John Lateran and marvel at its grandiose and imposing façade. Technically known as the Papal Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, this grand church is the oldest of the 4 major basilicas in Rome and holds the status of the ecumenical mother church for Roman Catholics, making it a valuable sight to see. Cherish your time there, as this important church is the official ecclesiastical seat of none other than the Pope himself!
Saint John Lateran is also home to the heralded Holy Steps. These steps, or the "Scala Santa" in Italian, are a prime destination for those who come to Rome on a spiritual journey, as they are sanctified to believers by the footsteps of Jesus Christ himself, not long before his crucifixion.
Next, journey to the Basilica of Saint Mary Maggiore, the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome. Adorned with fabulous 5th-century frescoes and mosaics, this beautiful basilica is home to a marvelous collection of historic and religious artifacts. Under the basilica's altar lies the famous Crypt of the Nativity, which is rumored to contain wood which came from the holy crib of Jesus Christ.
Finally, stroll along the historic Appian Way and descend underground to the ancient Catacombs of Rome. Dating back to the 2nd century, these subterranean burial sites are an amazing sight to see. The Catacombs also house numerous works of art and are of immeasurable importance to Early Christian art history. Listen as your guide explains the history behind these hidden tombs and how they reveal some of Early Christianity's secrets.
If you are interested in visiting the Christian Rome, but you prefer a more exclusive itinerary, take a look at the private tour of the churches of Rome by car.
Meeting point information and local telephone numbers at your destination are included on your Confirmation Voucher.
The itinerary may change, depending on traffic or religious/particular events.
This is a tour bilingual English/Spanish and French/German.
We suggest you to wear confortable shoes and clothes. Bring a rain coat or an umbrella in Winter. In Summer months, sun-lotion and a bottle of water is recommended. Also, appropriate clothing is required for the entrance to places of worship (shoulders and knees must be covered for both man and woman).
The pick-up is provided only for the hotels located in the centre of Rome, so it is important to communicate the name and address of the hotel where you are staying, to organize the service in the best way. Also, please note that the pick-up service is NOT provided for private homes and B&B. The pick-up service starts 1 hour before the starting time of the activity: the exact time of your pick-up will be communicated after booking.