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Trip Planner: Europe / Italy / Lazio / Rome / Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

4.8

World heritage site · Religious Site · Historic Site

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Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, a World Heritage site crowning the top of the Esquiline Hill, features fifth-century mosaics that are some of the oldest representations of the Virgin Mary. This ancient church is renowned for all its ancient mosaics, which are particularly impressive when the floodlights are turned on. The depictions of the site's triumphal arch and the nave served as models for many other representations of the Virgin Mary created during subsequent centuries. The building contains a 14th-century bell tower, the highest in the city. The site's 16th-century coffered ceiling is said to be gilded with Incan gold that Christopher Columbus initially brought for his patrons, Spain's joint rulers Ferdinand and Isabella. The church also includes a museum that details the history of the site and features several notable works of art. Using our international travel planner, Rome attractions like Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.

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Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

16,483 reviews

Google

4.8

By cheshire3131

Our hotel was close to the basilica and we visited on the first day. We went on a Sunday afternoon we didn't expect it to open and it was. It was free to enter and once inside it was spectacular...

Our hotel was close to the basilica and we visited on the first day. We went on a Sunday afternoon we didn't expect it to open and it was. It was free to enter and once inside it was spectacular... more »
By Tony T

We booked a guided tour and were lucky enough to be guided by an archaeologist whose enthusiasm and knowledge were excellent. It is a stunning building with free entry if you just want to look around.... more

We booked a guided tour and were lucky enough to be guided by an archaeologist whose enthusiasm and knowledge were excellent. It is a stunning building with free entry if you just want to look around.... more »
By Hils999

Stunning Basilica with amazing ceiling, probably our favourite we visited. If you feel the need there are boxes for confession

Stunning Basilica with amazing ceiling, probably our favourite we visited. If you feel the need there are boxes for confession more »

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By A R

One of the most beautiful Basilica's in Rome. Very close to Roma Terminal Station. Entrance is free. The basilica is huge with high and beautiful ceiling, marble carvings and mosaics. The interiors are simply stunning. Visitors are expected to maintain silence and be respectful of the place. A visit to this Basilica is highly recommended and is worth visiting.

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By Stephanie Malone

Beautiful and unique artwork…. Very different than what you see in the other major cathedrals in Rome. Full of gorgeous mosaics. The building itself is grand and in the heart of several districts that offer shopping and restaurants, also very close to Termini and easy to access. Not really too crowded

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By Shafaq Kazmi

One of the most beautiful Basilica’s in Rome with a unique architecture that you wouldn’t find in Europe. The interiors are simply stunning with various beautiful mosaics. Entry is free and the place is close to the metro station. Highly recommended and worth a visit 🙌

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By David Zaki

It is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome. It is distinguished by the huge tower and the obelisk in front of it. Inside there are many beautiful Christian icons as well as many amazing sculptures. The church is worth visiting and praying there. Admission is free and you may need an hour to enjoy the visit

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By Yo Sop Shin

One of the 4 main Basilica of Rome. Beautiful church with rich history. The ceiling paintings are amazing along with the multiple chapels inside. There are no entry fees. Just go through a light security and enjoy.

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