Follow the final hours of Christ’s life through the relics preserved in several Roman churches. Discover the religious heart of Rome, on a 3.5-hour private tour that takes you to see relics from the Passion of Jesus brought to Rome from the Holy Land.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 3.5 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Skip the line through express security check
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, Italian
- Private group
Experience
Highlights
- See the relic of the flogging pillar at the Basilica of Santa Prassede
- Marvel at the ornate Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
- Walk up the Holy Stairs at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Full description
Embark on a 3.5-hour private guided tour with a focus on the spirituality of Rome and some of the churches linked to the Passion of Jesus.
Start out at the Basilica of Santa Prassede, where you’ll see a relic of the pillar of the flogging, a segment of the column upon which Jesus was flogged before his crucifixion. Mentioned in 3 of the canonical gospels, this relic was brought to Rome during the Middle Ages.
Next is a visit to the amazing Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. This is the largest Marian Church in Rome and is home to a piece of wood said to come from the crib of Jesus.
Move on to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the first of the 4 papal basilicas to be built, and the Cathedral of Rome. See the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs. These are the steps leading up to Pilate's headquarter in Jerusalem, on which Jesus stepped before he was sentenced to death. To gain the plenary Indulgence, believers climb the steps on their knees.
Nearby is the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem. It was built in the 4th century A.D. to preserve the relics brought to Rome by St. Helen, the mother of Constantine. Several relics are preserved in the Cappella delle Reliquie. See the panel that hung on Christ's cross, 2 thorns from his crown, and 3 pieces of his cross.
Includes
- Private tour guide
- Meals
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
St. Mary Major Square. Right in front of the Facade of St. Mary Major Basilica, next to the Column of Peace.
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What to bring
- Passport or ID card
Not allowed
- Shorts
- Luggage or large bags
- Sleeveless shirts
Know before you go
- Please remember that when visiting churches, shoulders and knees must be covered.
