Papal Basilicas: St. John Lateran, Saint Mary Major, St. Paul outside the walls
Description
On this tour you will explore three of the most important Basilicas in the world, after St. Peter's: St. John Lateran, St.Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Built in the 4th century by the emperor Constantine, the Basilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest church in the western world. A former seat of the papacy, and the current seat of the Archdiocese of Rome, St. John Latera is Rome's Cathedral. Its many treasures include the original doors of the Roman Curia or senate house. Nearby are the Scala Sancta ( Holy Stairs ) believed to be the very steps on which Chist stood trial before Pontius Pilate. St. Mary Major is one the oldest churches dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and is known for its mosaics featuring scenes from the life of Mary. It also houses the relic of Christ's manger. Last but not least, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is the second largest Basilica after St. Peter's Basilica. It was founded on the burial ground of St. Paul.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The Lateran Palace was handed over by Constantine I to the Bishop of Rome, who converted the building into a temple during the fourth century. The Basilica is the oldest church in Europe.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is an ancient Catholic basilica that is considered to be the largest of the churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome.
The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of the four major basilicas of Rome, and the second largest after St. Peter's Basilica. It was founded on the burial ground of St. Paul.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Please provide your hotel accommodation at the moment of the reservation.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Disclaimer on Entry Lines During the Jubilee Year Please note that during the Jubilee Year, access to the Major Papal Basilicas of St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran, and St. Paul Outside the Walls may be subject to longer-than-usual waiting times due to increased visitor flow and enhanced security procedures. While every effort will be made to optimize your visit and avoid delays, entrance to the basilicas cannot be guaranteed without waiting in line, especially during peak hours. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this extraordinary Holy Year.
Reviews(18)
There is NOTHING like Saint Mary Major ranks up there with the Vatican. All 3 were great visits as this was our 4th time to Rome and wanted to see where the late Pope Francis is buried.
Thank you for your wonderful review! We completely agree, St. Mary Major is truly a remarkable place, rich in history, beauty, and spirituality. We are delighted that you enjoyed all three visits and that you had the opportunity to pay your respects at the resting place of Pope Francis. We hope to welcome you back to Rome for your fifth visit soon!
Excellent tour! Lots of history packed into 4 hours. Our tour guide John Carlos was extremely knowledgeable and answered all questions asked!
Thank you very much for your thoughtful message. We’re so pleased to know you had such a wonderful experience, and we’ll gladly share your kind comments with Giancarlo — he will truly appreciate them. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we sincerely hope to welcome you back again in the future.
Wonderful time with Andy. Great pace for perspective in art, history, and architecture. We are very impressed with LIV tours and Andy.
Thank you very much!! Happy to read you had a great time!
Fantastic tour!!! Our tour guide and driver did a great job and Tatiana definitely made our experience even more special. Her knowledge is amazing and we felt so lucky to have her as our guide.
Thank you for your kind words! We’re delighted you had a fantastic experience. Tatiana will be so happy to hear your feedback. We hope to see you again soon!
Quite knowledgeable tour guide. Knew a lot about historical periods and types/styles of architecture .Excellent driver and vehicle.
Built by Emperor Constatus the Great, it was consecrated in 324, is very beautiful and has one of the 4 Holy Doors that Rome has. Don’t miss out on your visit to the city.
TripAdvisor sent a message to me saying that I said something inappropriate and against the rules, but I don’t see it. Here’s my review containing just facts: “Around 313 AD, Constantine I, after marrying Fausta, donated the Domus Laterani to the Bishop of Rome. It is believed this donation occurred during the pontificate of Pope Miltiades This donation of the Domus Laterani paved the way for the construction of the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, which stands on the site today. The basilica is considered the cathedral of Rome and the oldest public church in the Western world. “
We enjoy visiting all three of Papal Basilicas. We went late morning there was not a huge crowd. Seems that is the best time to visit all three Basilicas.
Thank you so much for your feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed visiting all three Papal Basilicas. We’re glad it worked out so well for you and hope to welcome you again on your next visit!
A very large and beautiful basilica of magnificent paintings. A place to see absolutely. Very easy to access.
Merci beaucoup pour votre commentaire si positif ! Nous sommes ravis que la visite vous ait plu et que vous ayez apprécié la beauté et la richesse artistique de la basilique. C’est en effet un lieu chargé d’histoire et d’émotion. Nous espérons avoir le plaisir de vous accueillir à nouveau pour d’autres découvertes tout aussi inoubliables ! À bientôt à Rome ! Bien cordialement, L’équipe Exploro Tours
The basilicas are absolutely worth a visit, and our guide was able to explain and show us so much that it added to the experience. Our guide tailored the tour to us as we went. She was very knowledgeable and may the visits so much better than had we done it on our own.
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're so glad to hear that you enjoyed visiting the basilicas and that your guide was able to enhance the experience with knowledge and a personalized touch. Creating meaningful and tailored tours is something we truly care about, and it’s wonderful to know it made a difference. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on another tour soon!
