The Christian Rome: the four major Papal Basilicas

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover religious landmarks of Rome
• Explore four historic churches: the Basilica of St. Peter, the Basilica of St. Paul, the Basilica of St. Mary Major, and the Arch-Basilica of St. John Lateran
• Learn about the history, architecture, and relics of each basilica and travel among them
• Private guide leading the way

FULL DESCRIPTION

The tour will begin at Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, which was built on the tomb of the Apostle Paul. It was destroyed by a terrible fire in 1823 and was rebuilt on the same foundations and consecrated in 1854 by Pope Pius IX. The tour will continue with the Basilica of St. John in Lateran, founded by Constantine. It was destroyed and rebuilt many times, assuming its present appearance thanks to a series of restorations over the centuries. Proceeding with the tour, you will visit the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the only Basilica that has preserved its original form. According to legend, it was erected in 352 A.D. after an apparition of Our Lady, and finally finished by Pope Sixtus III, its mosaics are of extraordinary impact. Finally, the tour will end in the most important Basilica for Christianism, St. Peter’s. The suggestive square, together with Bernini’s colonnade, frame the gigantic Basilica, dominated by Michelangelo’s grandiose dome.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Entrance to the four Basilicas
• Dispo car
• Tour with private guide

WHAT TO BRING

Passport or ID card

NOT ALLOWED

Baby strollers Shorts or short skirts Sleeveless shirts Baby carriages

WHAT TO KNOW

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may be refused the entrance if you fail to comply with these dress requirements