Roman Jubilee: Private Tour of the Papal Basilicas

Once every 25 years the Pope ceremoniously opens the Holy Doors of each of the Papal basilicas, signifying the  commencement of a Jubilee. Join an art historian on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through centuries of faith, history, and architectural wonder as you visit the most magnificent churches of Rome.

Highlights

• View three Papal Basilicas in all of their glory during the sacred Jubilee
• Admire the holy doors and gain special access to the Loggia or the Dome at Santa Maria Maggiore
• Top-rated private guide means you get the most out of your visit

Description

Meet your guide at the first of the Papal basilicas: St. Mary Major where our journey begins.
Santa Maria Maggiore is the oldest and most important Marian sanctuary in Christiandom.  According to Christian belief, the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to Pope Liberius and gave him the inspiration to build a church in her name at a location where she would cause snow to fall. In August of 358ad, snow was reported on the Esquiline Hill and this miraculous summer snowfall set the foundation for one of Rome’s oldest churches.

Your expert guide will lead you through its stunning 13th-century golden mosaics, the relic of the Holy Manger, and the tomb of Bernini. You’ll have exclusive access to the papal loggia and learn the fascinating story of the Inca gold ceiling donated by Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain.

Upon exiting St. Mary Major, a private transfer will accompany you to the basilica of  Saint Paul Outside the Walls, built by Emperor Constantine over the tomb of none other than Saint Paul. Explore its vast nave lined with 80 towering pillars, stunning golden mosaic of Christ, and portraits of every Pope since Saint Peter. Despite a devastating fire in the 19th century, the basilica has been meticulously restored, featuring marble from Egypt, Greece, and Russia. You’ll also enjoy a peaceful moment in the cloister.

Another short ride by private transfer brings us back inside the original walled city of Rome to St John in Lateran,  the most significant of the Papal Basilicas and the Pope’s cathedral as Bishop of Rome and where Popes resided until the 14th century. Marvel at its grand design, work of  Baroque master Francesco Borromini and note the bronze doors that once served as the entrance to the Senate of Ancient Rome.  Your guide will explain the significance of the Holy Door created by Floriano Boldini in honor of the 2000 Millenium Jubilee.

Your tour will conclude on the Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano. Should you wish to continue exploring the Christian sites of Rome, within a short walking distance you will find the Scala Santa, or sacred staircase Jesus climbed that was brought to Rome by Saint Helena as well as the church of the Holy Cross.

This exclusive tour, with a private guide and transfer service, immerses you in the rich traditions of the Jubilee and the enduring legacy of Rome’s Papal basilicas where history and faith converge.

Know before you book

• Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• This tour can be customized. Find out more by using the contact links at the bottom of this page.
• This tour can be adapted to suit guests with mobility challenges. Contact our team today to plan your visit.

Know before you go

• Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Tour departs rain or shine.

Cancellation Policy

• Tours depart rain or shine unless otherwise specified.
• All cancellations must be received in writing. Tours and passes will be refunded if cancelled more than 48 hours before the tour start time, however the following penalties apply:
• For tours entering the Vatican Museums and/or the Colosseum (venues where tickets are non-refundable) a penalty of $30 per person will be retained for each venue.
• No refunds will be made for cancellations with less than 48 hours notice or failure to arrive at the meeting point on time (no-show).