Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Pudenziana & Santa Prassede Private Church Tour

Explore some of the most beautiful churches in Rome with an expert guide!

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

2 hours

     Tour Size Options Small Group (up to 14 ppl)
Private
    

Itinerary

The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is an ancient Catholic church renowned as the largest dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome. It holds the distinction of being one of the city’s four major basilicas, making it a significant site for both religious and historical reasons.
The Santa Prassede Basilica is renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which completely adorn the walls and vaults, having been meticulously preserved in their original state. This small 9th-century church is dedicated to St. Praxedes, an early Christian heroine known for sheltering Christians fleeing persecution and for burying those she couldn’t save in a well. Today, the location of this well is marked by a marble disc on the floor of the nave, serving as a poignant reminder of her bravery and compassion.
Santa Pudenziana is a remarkable 4th-century Christian church that was converted from a 2nd-century Roman bathhouse, making it one of the few ancient Roman structures to remain intact throughout the centuries. It also serves as the national church for Rome’s Filipino community. A highlight of the church is its stunning 4th-century apse mosaic, recognized as the oldest Christian mosaic in Rome. This intricate artwork depicts Christ seated on a jewel-encrusted throne, clad in a golden toga with purple trim, flanked by his apostles, though two of the apostles were removed during restoration.

Tour Details

Full Description

Explore the hidden treasures of Rome on this captivating 2-hour private tour, guided by a knowledgeable local expert, to visit three of the city's most beautiful churches: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, Santa Prassede, and Santa Pudenziana. Your journey begins at Santa Maria Maggiore, a stunning papal basilica and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will admire well-preserved Roman-era mosaics, the chapels of Pope Sixtus V and Pope Paul V, and masterpieces by renowned artists like Raphael and Michelangelo.

As you move on to Santa Prassede, you will encounter more breathtaking mosaics and artworks, including a segment of the pillar where Jesus was flogged. Finally, your tour concludes at Santa Pudenziana, believed to be the oldest Christian temple in Rome, featuring the city’s oldest mosaic apse depicting Christ surrounded by his Apostles. Throughout the tour, your guide will share insights into historical Christian art and architecture, making for a unique and enriching experience.