Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Experience
Descend beneath one of Rome's oldest basilicas to discover the archaeological remains hidden under Santa Maria Maggiore. An extraordinary underground experience revealing layers of Roman history.
About this tour
Beneath one of Rome's four major Papal basilicas lies a fascinating hidden world revealing layers of history from imperial Rome to early Christianity. This underground experience takes you beneath Santa Maria Maggiore's marble floors to explore archaeological chambers few visitors ever see. Descend into preserved Roman structures dating back to the 1st century AD, including thermal chambers with original mosaic floors and heating cavities. See a rare agricultural calendar fresco depicting seasonal work. Learn how early Christians repurposed Roman buildings for worship and how the basilica evolved over centuries into the West's largest Marian sanctuary. Your expert guide illuminates the spiritual and architectural significance of this extraordinary site.
Highlights
- Underground archaeology
- Ancient basilica
- Hidden history
- Expert guide
- Small group
Itinerary
- 1
Meet at Santa Maria Maggiore
Your guide meets you at the basilica entrance.
- 2
Basilica interior
One of Rome's four major basilicas — 5th-century mosaics and papal chapels.
- 3
Underground excavations
Descend to the archaeological layers beneath the basilica.
- 4
Early Christian remains
See the foundations of earlier structures and ancient artefacts.
- 5
End of tour
Return to the basilica exit.
Meeting point
Important information
- Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour starts
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended